Name: Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85% lean); 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup beef broth

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A classic meat-and-potatoes dish never goes out of style, and this savory ground beef and potatoes recipe proves why. It’s cozy, simple, and packed with rich, satisfying flavors. Tender potatoes and juicy ground beef come together in a one-pan meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether I’m whipping it up on a busy weeknight or making a hearty dinner for the whole family, this recipe always hits the spot.

Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to prepare—no complicated steps or fancy kitchen tools required. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t ask much of me but delivers a lot in return.

It’s quick and fuss-free, with minimal prep.
I can customize it with whatever vegetables or seasonings I have on hand.
It’s ideal for meal prep or feeding a hungry group.
It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
The leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup beef broth

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the chopped onion and garlic, letting them sauté until softened and fragrant.
Then I add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned, I season it with salt and black pepper.
I toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. I bring it to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let everything cook until the potatoes are tender, giving it a stir every now and then.
If I want to take it a step further, I transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
After baking, I let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add carrots, peas, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
For a spicy twist, I like to mix in red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of cream cheese gives it a creamy finish.
Using beef stock instead of broth deepens the flavor.
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary bring an earthy aroma to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
If frozen, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. For best results, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook ground beef and potatoes together?

It typically takes about 35 minutes, including browning the beef and cooking the potatoes until tender. It’s a quick meal that doesn’t need a lot of time in the kitchen.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the whole dish ahead, store it in the fridge, and just reheat it before serving. It’s perfect for busy days when I need dinner ready in a flash.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I like using Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture. Russets also work, but they tend to break down more.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Not necessarily. If I’m using thin-skinned varieties like red or Yukon Gold potatoes, I usually leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. But peeling is totally fine too.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. I swap the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Conclusion

This savory ground beef and potatoes recipe is everything I want in a comfort food meal: easy, hearty, and bursting with homey flavor. It’s a dish I turn to when I need something reliable and satisfying, whether for a solo night in or a family gathering. With just a few basic ingredients, I get a warm, filling dinner that brings everyone to the table.