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Ground Beef and Potatoes

Ground Beef and Potatoes

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a comforting, hearty, and simple dish combining savory tender beef with fluffy potatoes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, this classic meal is flavorful, easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 lbs potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped, for garnish

Optional Spices and Add-ons

  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
  • Chili flakes or chili powder, to taste (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, peas) (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary or oregano (optional, for Mediterranean flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into cubes or thin slices depending on your preference. Boil them in salted water until just tender, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the beef to one side of the pan and add diced onions and minced garlic to the other side. Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant.
  4. Combine Meat and Potatoes: Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the beef mixture, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices. Toss everything together to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the dish to add a burst of freshness and aroma before serving.

Notes

  • Choose a slightly fattier ground beef blend (like 80/20) for richer flavor and moistness.
  • Do not overcook potatoes; keep them tender but firm to avoid mushiness.
  • Season in layers by adding salt and spices halfway through cooking and adjusting at the end.
  • Use a wide pan to allow more surface area for browning the beef.
  • Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes off heat before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, potatoes, easy dinner, quick meal, family recipe, comfort food, budget meal