There is something truly heartwarming about a dish that brings both satisfaction and simplicity to your dinner table, and this Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe delivers exactly that. Combining tender, flavorful ground beef with perfectly cooked potatoes, it’s a one-pan meal that wraps you in cozy goodness with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a nostalgic dish that never fails to please, this recipe is a timeless celebration of comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe, you will rely on simple ingredients that each play a vital role. From the richness of ground beef to the creamy texture of diced potatoes, every component is essential for a perfect balance of flavors and satisfying textures.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory foundation full of protein and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity undertone and preventing sticking.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the dish once caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a punch of aromatic flavor that wakes up the senses.
- 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes): Give the dish a comforting, soft texture that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings gentle warmth and a lovely color to the mix.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the beef and potatoes perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors, making everything pop.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and balances the seasoning.
- 1 cup beef broth: Infuses the dish with extra richness and moisture as the potatoes cook.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth with its tangy, umami character that ties all the flavors together.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melted on top, it offers a creamy, savory finish that makes this meal even more irresistible.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Gives a fresh pop of color and brightness to the final presentation.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm thoroughly. Toss in the diced onion, cooking it until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it soften for just 30 seconds, releasing that irresistible aroma that signals great things to come.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with your spatula. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is crucial because browning the beef builds flavor layers that make the dish so satisfying. If any excess grease accumulates, carefully drain it off for a lighter meal.
Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Seasonings
Next, stir in the diced potatoes along with paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Coat everything evenly in those seasonings, ensuring each potato cube gets a bit of that fragrant spice for a well-rounded taste.
Step 4: Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, giving the mixture a thorough stir. Cover the skillet and allow it to cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will soften as they absorb the rich, savory liquid, making each bite comforting and full-bodied. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help liquids reduce appropriately.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Garnish
If you’re a fan of melty goodness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the hot skillet contents. Let it sit for a minute or two to melt just right. Finally, add a sprinkle of chopped parsley to bring a fresh, vibrant touch to this classic comfort food.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley not only brightens the appearance but adds a subtle herbaceous flavor that balances the rich beef and potatoes. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate this dish even further, offering creamy or spicy contrasts.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a stand-alone meal, but if you’d like to complement it, consider a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a refreshing counterpoint. Roasted vegetables or a simple coleslaw also pair beautifully, providing texture and freshness alongside the hearty skillet meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve this Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe in individual ramekins topped with cheese and broiled for a minute or two for a golden crust. Alternatively, use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or wraps for a creative twist that gets everyone excited about dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, often tasting even better the next day as the spices continue to infuse the beef and potatoes.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option. Adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating can help maintain that lovely, moist texture so it doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes provide the ideal texture, Yukon gold potatoes make a great substitute for a slightly creamier result. Just keep the same dice size for consistent cooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe freezes well, making it perfect to prepare in bulk and enjoy later without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to toss in chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers to add color, nutrition, and variety. Add them with the potatoes so they cook evenly and absorb the savory broth.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when adding the seasonings to kick things up a notch without overwhelming the classic flavors.
Can I cook this dish in the oven?
While traditionally made on the stovetop, you can transfer everything to a baking dish and bake covered at 350°F for about 35-40 minutes until potatoes are tender, then uncover and add cheese for a melted topping if you like.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe truly embodies what comfort food should be — simple, nourishing, and utterly delicious. It’s a reliable go-to that fits perfectly into any weeknight meal plan or weekend family feast. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this heartwarming skillet time and time again. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Comfort Food Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food classic, combining tender browned beef with perfectly cooked potatoes in one skillet. Flavored with aromatic onions, garlic, paprika, and thyme, and enriched with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, this dish is a warm, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights. Optionally topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley garnish, it’s simple yet incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the aromatics and meat.
- Sauté onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, developing the base flavor.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Combine potatoes and spices: Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the potatoes are well coated with the seasonings.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then stir everything together. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid mostly absorbed.
- Add cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt for 1–2 minutes, adding a delicious creamy layer.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
- For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes during cooking.
- Leftovers are excellent topped with a fried egg for a satisfying breakfast.
