Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef and potatoes makes for a filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples, making it an accessible dish for most households.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with various seasonings and additions to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Potatoes: Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Potatoes: Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Total Time: Around 35 minutes.

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking and let it melt for a cheesy version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture is too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat used.

Can I use a different type of potato?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, russet or red potatoes can also be used.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, adding shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking can create a cheesy version of this dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of cooking the potatoes, then refrigerate and cook when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking the potatoes. Cook them just until tender and cooked through.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or a meat substitute.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.