This hearty dish of ground beef and potatoes is like a warm hug on a plate! It’s filled with tasty bits of beef mixed with tender, fluffy potatoes that everyone loves.
Honestly, it’s such an easy meal to whip up—just brown the beef, add those comforting potatoes, and let it simmer. Perfect for cozy dinners! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes, though they might require added seasoning for flavor.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for getting that crispy texture, but Yukon Golds add a creaminess that I love. You can even use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor and nutrition!
Bell Peppers: Mix and match colors for a vibrant dish! If you’re out of bell peppers, zucchini or even frozen mixed vegetables can work too, giving you that nutritious boost.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or even a Mexican blend for a different flavor. Vegan cheese is a solid choice if you’re going dairy-free.
Taco Seasoning: If you’re out, a mix of cumin, chili powder, and paprika can stand in just fine! I like to add a pinch of cayenne for a little kick too.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Potatoes?
Cooking the potatoes can be tricky if you want them soft inside and crispy outside. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with high heat to brown the potatoes. Keep them moving so they don’t stick.
- After about 10 minutes of cooking, when they begin to soften, you can cover them for a couple of minutes. This will help steam and tenderize them quicker.
Never rush this step! Cooking them through helps them blend well with the beef and veggies later.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 large potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors: red, yellow, green)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. In about 10 minutes, you’ll get the potatoes going, followed by the rest of the veggies and ground beef. Just a bit of mixing and the cheese melting at the end, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Cook these, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. You want them to soften and turn a nice golden brown color.
2. Adding Vegetables:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers with the potatoes. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes more, until the vegetables are tender and everything smells amazing!
3. Browning the Beef:
Now, push the veggies to the side of the skillet. In the center, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mixing in Flavors:
After the beef is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Mix everything together so the flavors combine nicely. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Melting the Cheese:
To finish it off, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your beef and potato mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. Just wait until it’s gooey and delicious!
6. Serving and Enjoying:
Once the cheese is all melted, take the skillet off the heat. If you like, garnish with some fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter dish. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used. Make sure it’s fully cooked before serving!
How to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast can also be a great way to add a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and potato mixture a day in advance! Just cook everything up to step 5, then let it cool, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop and add the cheese until melted.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
