This comforting dish of ground beef and potatoes is a winner for any dinner table! It’s hearty and fills you up, plus it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
When I make this, I love how quickly it comes together. It’s the kind of meal that warms your belly and your heart—perfect for a busy weeknight! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or crumbled tofu instead!
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture. If you want to avoid starchy potatoes, sweet potatoes are a great alternative, giving a slightly different but delicious flavor.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. Feel free to mix in green or orange peppers – or even zucchini – for a different taste. You can also use frozen bell peppers if you don’t have fresh ones on hand.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to switch it up with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a vegan cheese if you want a plant-based option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Soft Potatoes in My Skillet?
The potatoes are key in this dish, so getting them just right is essential. Start by cutting them into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking. Cook them thoroughly at medium heat with olive oil, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly golden and fork-tender.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes initially, checking for softness.
- Don’t rush the process; let them get golden for better flavor.
- If they seem to cook too fast, reduce the heat slightly.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes prepping and cooking the potatoes, then finish off the rest of the steps in about 15-18 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced potatoes. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to begin softening and turn a nice golden color. This is where the deliciousness starts!
2. Adding Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Sauté everything together until the onions are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The combination of flavors will start smelling amazing!
3. Browning the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much grease, feel free to drain some off—no one likes a greasy dish.
4. Mixing in the Flavor:
It’s time for the colorful bell peppers! Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers along with the paprika, cumin, and optional chili powder. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook everything together for another 5-6 minutes until the peppers are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Melting the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a couple of minutes, just until the cheese melts perfectly. This step is what takes the dish from good to amazing!
6. Serving It Up:
Once the cheese is melted, remove your skillet from heat. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet warm, and enjoy a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a lovely sweetness to the dish. Just peel and dice them, keeping in mind that they may cook slightly faster than regular potatoes, so check for doneness after about 8-10 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Ground Beef?
No problem! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats like turkey may cook a bit faster. Always ensure that your meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also reheat it in the microwave!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like zucchini, corn, or even greens like spinach for extra nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on how long each vegetable takes to soften.
