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Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

By: Barbara Updated on Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:49:57 GMT Hearty Mains
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Barbara, recipe developer and home cook at Graceful Flavors
By Barbara

Hi, I'm Barbara, the recipe developer and home cook behind Graceful Flavors. I share approachable recipes with clear steps, familiar ingredients, and delicious results for real everyday kitchens.

Updated on Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:49:57 GMT

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A close up of a delicious meal. Pin it
A close up of a delicious meal.

This ground beef and potatoes skillet has saved my dinnertime more times than I can count Whenever the week gets too busy I pull out this recipe for a filling one pan meal that comes together with simple ingredients and rich comforting flavor

The first time I made this skillet my kids wiped their plates clean before I even sat down That cheesy topping turned simple beef and potatoes into something everyone gets excited about

Ingredients

  • Lean ground beef: Choose 93 or 7 for less grease and rich flavor
  • Yellow onion: The base for savory depth Fresh local onions are best
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth Opt for plump cloves with tight skins
  • Green bell pepper: A fresh note and color Select peppers that are firm and shiny
  • Russet potatoes: Creamy texture and heartiness Pick ones with no soft spots or sprouts
  • Worcestershire sauce: Boosts savory notes Look for a quality aged version
  • Kosher salt: Brings out all those flavors Choose a pure salt with no additives
  • Black pepper: Lends subtle heat Use freshly cracked for best results
  • Smoked paprika: Adds irresistible smokiness If possible source Spanish smoked paprika for depth
  • Dried thyme: Earthy herbal lift Buy a good dried herb or try fresh if you have it
  • Beef broth: Provides moisture and flavor backbone Use a low sodium quality broth
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey finish Buy block cheese and shred it yourself for best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:
Break up the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat Keep stirring until it is fully browned and you see no pink at all This takes about five to seven minutes draining off extra fat if necessary builds a clean meaty base
Soften the Veggies:
Toss in the diced onion garlic and bell pepper Stir frequently Cook for about five minutes until the onions are soft and golden and the bell pepper has lost its raw bite You want everything to melt together gently without browning too fast
Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
Scatter in the diced potatoes then sprinkle in the Worcestershire sauce salt black pepper paprika and thyme Stir well so the potatoes are coated and get a jump on absorbing those spices
Simmer with Broth:
Pour the beef broth evenly over everything Cover the skillet tightly Drop the heat to medium-low Let it simmer gently for fifteen to twenty minutes Stir halfway through to make sure nothing sticks Test a potato cube with a fork It should pierce easily when done
Finish with Cheese:
Take off the lid and quickly shower the skillet with shredded cheddar Cover again Let that cheese sit for about two minutes to fully melt and get gooey Remove from the heat and allow the skillet to rest a few moments so each bite is even more flavorful and easy to scoop
A delicious meal of meat and potatoes.
A delicious meal of meat and potatoes.

You Must Know

  • Great source of protein in every portion
  • Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day
  • Gluten free with the right Worcestershire and broth

Cheese on top acts as the perfect creamy binder for all those cozy flavors No matter how many skillet meals I try nothing beats the smell of beef and potatoes mingling in the kitchen It reminds me of my grandmother who made something similar every Sunday

Storage Tips

Let your skillet cool completely before packing leftovers into airtight containers in the fridge It will keep for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave stirring halfway so the cheese remelts evenly If you want to freeze scoop portions into freezer safe bags or containers for up to two months though the potatoes may get a little softer

Ingredient Substitutions

No russet potatoes No worries Yukon Golds or red potatoes also turn out great If you prefer turkey or chicken swap the protein easily out Try Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses for a twist Fresh thyme works if you have it just use a bit more

A close up of a delicious meal.
A close up of a delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the skillet straight onto plates or into bowls for a rustic look A dash of hot sauce or diced scallions on top gives it extra kick Serve with roasted vegetables or a leafy salad for balance Some like to tuck a scoop into a warm tortilla for a hearty wrap too

Cultural History

The magic of beef and potatoes in one pan goes back to classic American farmhouse meals Skillet dinners became popular for inventing hearty family suppers with minimal fuss The combo nods to comfort food traditions in both US and UK kitchens where resourceful cooks stretched simple pantry staples into something special

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this meal less fatty?

Use extra lean ground beef and drain excess fat after cooking. You can also blot with a paper towel for lower fat content.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Colby blend for a different melting texture and flavor profile.

Are other potatoes suitable?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and have a creamy texture, making them good substitutes for russets.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until hot throughout.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, corn, or spinach fold in easily for extra color and nutrients.

4.70 from 47 votes

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Prep Time:
15 Minutes
Cook Time:
30 Minutes
Total Time:
45 Minutes
Servings:
6
A close up of a delicious meal.
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Savory ground beef, potatoes, veggies, and cheddar meld in one skillet for a comforting dinner favorite.

Ingredients

  • Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (93/7)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1.

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until no longer pink throughout.

2.

2. Cook Aromatics: Add the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant. Drain off any excess fat.

3.

3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Incorporate the diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme into the skillet. Stir to combine evenly.

4.

4. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender.

5.

5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the lid and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Cover again and let stand for about 2 minutes until the cheese has melted.

6.

6. Rest Before Serving: Take the skillet off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to improve flavor and texture.

Notes

  1. For best texture, ensure potatoes are uniformly diced to promote even cooking.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk (cheddar cheese)