Ground Beef and Potatoes

If you are craving something hearty but do not want to fuss with long hours in the kitchen this ground beef and potatoes skillet is just the thing It is perfect for weeknights when you want big flavor and minimal effort rich with spices and savory notes yet made with humble everyday ingredients

The first time I made this I just wanted something cozy and filling with pantry items It has now become my go to for busy nights and family potlucks my kids love it too

Ingredients

• Olive oil: for browning and adding rich flavor pick extra virgin for best taste
• Lean ground beef: makes the dish filling and savory look for fresh local beef if possible
• Yellow onion: brings natural sweetness and body choose firm onions without soft spots
• Red bell pepper: adds color and a mellow sweet bite opt for bright glossy peppers
• Yukon gold potatoes: give a creamy texture and hold their shape during cooking look for unblemished small potatoes
• Beef stock or water: infuses the potatoes with umami steer toward low sodium if using store bought
• Worcestershire sauce: boosts the meaty flavor check for a sauce with anchovy for richest taste
• Dijon mustard: adds a bright tang look for smooth and creamy French Dijon
• Green onions: bring a crisp fresh finish choose ones with vibrant green tops
• Cumin paprika dried thyme garlic powder: the backbone of the savory spice blend use fresh dried spices for best complexity
• Salt and black pepper: essential for balanced flavor use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper for best results

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add ground beef and half of your spice mixture Cook until the beef is browned breaking it into crumbles with a spatula This step brings out the depth of flavor Transfer the cooked beef onto a plate and set aside

Cook the Potatoes:

In the same skillet add your cubed Yukon gold potatoes and sprinkle them with the rest of your spice mixture Pour in beef stock or water Cover with a lid and let the potatoes cook for eight to ten minutes stirring now and then until they are fork tender and most of the liquid has evaporated The potatoes soak up all the delicious beefy spices here

Saute the Vegetables:

Add diced onion and red bell pepper directly into the skillet with the potatoes Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is tender about three to four minutes This builds more texture and sweetness into the dish

Combine and Finish:

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the potato and vegetable mix Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard thoroughly to make everything cohesive Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finishing touch and serve warm

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Yukon gold potatoes are my favorite part every time They become so creamy and flavorful after soaking up all the spices These potatoes remind me of my grandma who always said the right kind of potato makes the meal I think of her every time I make this

Storage Tips

This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days Store it in an airtight container To reheat simply use the microwave or warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water

Ingredient Substitutions

No Yukon gold potatoes on hand Try russets or even sweet potatoes Ground turkey or chicken can easily stand in for the beef and if you are out of Worcestershire a splash of soy sauce works nicely

Serving Suggestions

Spoon this over a bowl of buttered rice for extra comfort Or pair alongside sautéed greens for a balanced meal Sometimes I add a fried egg on top for breakfast leftovers

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Cultural Context

Recipes like this one pop up in kitchens around the world from American hash to British cottage pie and even to South American picadillo It is comfort food made for adapting to whatever the pantry offers

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute another potato variety?

Yes, red or russet potatoes work well. Just adjust cooking times as different varieties may soften faster or slower.

→ How do I keep the beef tender?

Brown the ground beef over medium heat and avoid overcooking. Remove from the pan once it's no longer pink to maintain tenderness.

→ What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce with a dash of vinegar or a splash of steak sauce can offer similar savory notes if Worcestershire sauce isn't available.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

Definitely. Prepare as directed, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of stock to preserve texture.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper with the other spices. Adjust according to your heat preference for extra kick.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?

Swap the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable stock for a hearty meat-free option.