This hearty dish of ground beef and potatoes is perfect for cozy dinners. It’s simple, filling, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite!
I love how the potatoes soak up the tasty juices from the beef. Serve it with a side of veggies, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef for less fat. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, ground turkey or chicken works great too! For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect. If you want to skip the carbs, consider cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Bell Pepper: Red or yellow bell peppers add sweetness, but feel free to swap in green if you prefer a slight bitterness. You can also use diced zucchini for a unique touch.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this dish. You can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even a vegan cheese if you want a dairy-free version!
Olive Oil: If you’re out of olive oil, use canola oil or avocado oil instead. Both offer similar health benefits and cooking properties.
Why is Sautéing the Onion and Garlic Important?
Sautéing the onion and garlic is key as it builds flavor right from the start. This technique softens the onion and caramelizes it slightly, bringing out its sweetness. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat before adding the oil.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference in taste!
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Cook Thoroughly?
To get those potatoes nicely tender, cutting them into uniform sizes helps them cook evenly. Here are some pointers:
- Dice potatoes into similar-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes.
- Cover the skillet to trap steam, which cooks potatoes faster.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Test for tenderness by piercing with a fork—if it goes in easily, they’re done!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. So, you can have a hearty dish ready in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and you can smell that delicious aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir away until the beef is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, feel free to drain some off to keep your dish lighter.
3. Add the Veggies and Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in those diced potatoes and bell pepper along with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the spices cover all the ingredients nicely.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are nice and tender. This will help everything meld together!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked through, take off the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt into gooey perfection.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and, if you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot and enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat type, so ensure it’s fully cooked through before adding the potatoes.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute for each clove of fresh garlic. Just add it along with the other spices to ensure the flavors meld nicely.
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, this skillet dish can be made ahead! Simply cook it, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
