This tasty dish features tender ground beef and hearty potatoes, all cooked together for a comforting meal. It’s perfect for any day when you want something filling!
I love how easy it is to make! Just brown the beef, toss in the potatoes, and let everything simmer. It’s such a hit with the family—I can’t keep leftovers for long! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here, offering rich flavor. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work well too. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or crumbled tofu!
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can be a great substitute.
Bell Peppers: Mixed colors are visually appealing and offer different flavors. If you don’t have all three, just use any variety you like. Even frozen bell peppers work in a pinch!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a great taste, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some heat. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese alternatives.
How Do You Cook Potatoes to Make Them Tender?
Perfectly tender potatoes can take some practice. Here’s how to ensure they cook through while absorbing all the flavors. The key is in how you cook them with the other ingredients.
- After adding diced potatoes to the skillet, cover it with a lid. This traps steam and helps cook the potatoes faster.
- Keep the heat on medium-low to prevent burning while allowing the potatoes to soften.
- Don’t forget to stir occasionally. This helps the potatoes cook evenly and soak up the spices and beef flavor!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups potatoes, diced (about 2 medium-sized)
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors: red, yellow, green)
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This base will add amazing flavor to your dish!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, turn the heat up to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess grease, feel free to drain it off before moving on.
3. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the diced potatoes and bell peppers, along with the paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well so the spices are evenly distributed with the beef and veggies. This will make for a wonderfully seasoned skillet!
4. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time to make sure the potatoes are cooking evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are done, it’s time to add the finishing touch! Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. This step adds delicious creaminess to your skillet dish!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with the freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet warm and enjoy a comforting meal that pleases everyone!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a delicious sweetness and extra nutrients to the dish. Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster than regular potatoes, so start checking for tenderness after about 12 minutes of simmering!
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier or lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as leaner meats like turkey can cook faster than beef!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help keep it moist. You can also top with a bit more cheese for extra flavor when reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding other veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Just make sure to dice them small and adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring all vegetables are tender before serving.
