Looking for a hearty, easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love? This Easy Ground Beef Potato recipe hits all the marks. It’s comforting, filling, and made with simple pantry staples. Think juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and just enough seasoning to bring it all together—a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under an hour.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or just want a cozy solo meal, this dish is endlessly adaptable. Add cheese, switch up the herbs, or toss in a handful of frozen peas to make it your own. It’s the kind of meal that always satisfies.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For this recipe, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal. They hold their shape while becoming beautifully tender. If you prefer a softer, more rustic texture, russets also work great—just peel them first. The key is to cut them evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Potato

1 lb ground beef
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
½ cup beef broth (or water)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Potato

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, then set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add olive oil, chopped onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth, then cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the lid and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes to let any extra liquid evaporate and the edges crisp slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Easy Ground Beef Potato

Serve hot straight from the skillet, topped with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side.

To store, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and still hold up well during cooking. Just adjust cooking time slightly as they may soften quicker.

What other seasonings go well with this?

Cumin, thyme, or a pinch of cayenne can add depth or heat, depending on your taste.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the beef for plant-based ground meat or even cooked lentils. Just be sure to season generously.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, though the potatoes may change texture slightly. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Can I double this recipe?

Definitely! Use a larger pan or split between two skillets to avoid overcrowding, and increase the simmering time slightly.

Want More Comfort Food Dinners?

If you’re a fan of cozy, satisfying meals, don’t miss these other great dinner ideas:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, dreamy skillet dinner.
The Ultimate Taco Casserole when you’re craving something cheesy and bold.
One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a no-fuss family favorite.
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole for creamy-meets-savory goodness.
Shipwreck Dinner if you love ground beef and potatoes in one comforting pot.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up? Add some cheese? Maybe swap in sweet potatoes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

You can also find more daily recipes and behind-the-scenes kitchen tips on my Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Easy Ground Beef Potato

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting one-skillet meal made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this easy ground beef potato recipe comes together fast and feeds the whole family with little cleanup.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, then set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add olive oil, chopped onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.

4. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth, then cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

5. Remove the lid and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes to let any extra liquid evaporate and the edges crisp slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.