When busy weeknights leave little time for elaborate meals, I often find myself turning to my go-to comfort dish: One Pot Ground Beef & Cheesy Potatoes. The moment the skillet hits the stove, a tantalizing blend of savory aromas fills the air, promising a satisfying meal without the fuss of a thousand pots and pans.
This hearty dish creates a delightful harmony of juicy ground beef, creamy potatoes, and vibrant peppers, all topped with a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a one-pot wonder that not only simplifies cleanup but also delivers warm, cozy flavors that resonate with anyone seeking a hearty home-cooked meal. Whether you’re enduring a hectic day or simply craving some comfort food, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into a dish that proves satisfying dinners can be both easy and delicious!
Why is One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes perfect?
Simplicity at its Core: This dish requires just one skillet, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze.
Hearty Flavor Explosion: The blend of savory beef with creamy potatoes and sweet peppers guarantees every bite is packed with flavor.
Quick and Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, saving you precious time.
Crowd Pleaser: Its comforting nature makes it a favorite among family and friends alike, appealing to all taste buds.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes or ground turkey, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.
With all these fantastic qualities, it’s no wonder this meal is a must-try!
One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Ingredients
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For the Base
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Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; can be substituted with canola or avocado oil.
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Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; additional olive oil can work if you prefer dairy-free.
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Starchy Potatoes (2 lbs) – Provide creaminess; Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for this one pot ground beef & potatoes dish.
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Romano Peppers (2) or 1 Large Bell Pepper – Brings sweetness and texture; any color works beautifully.
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Lean Ground Beef (1 lb) – Main protein source; swap with ground turkey or mushrooms for a lighter alternative.
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Yellow Onion (1) – Enhances flavor; shallots can replace if needed.
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Fresh Garlic Cloves (2) – Contributes aromatic depth; use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
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For Seasoning
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Sweet Paprika (1 tsp) – Provides subtle sweetness and color; smoked paprika can add a nice smoky flavor.
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Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds heat; adjust according to your taste preferences.
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Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – A herb blend that enhances overall flavor; dried oregano and basil can also be combined.
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Salt (½ tsp) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your preference.
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Chili Flakes (½ tsp) – Adds a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
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For the Finishing Touches
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Double-Concentrated Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Offers a rich tomato flavor; regular paste can be used as a substitute.
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Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp) – Adds a fresh pop; parsley flakes can be used but reduce the quantity.
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Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian option.
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Grated Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups) – Delicious topping; swap for a cheese blend or omit for a dairy-free version.
How to Make One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes
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Prep Ingredients: Start by peeling and slicing your starchy potatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Chop the onion and parsley, mince the garlic, and slice those colorful peppers.
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Cook Potatoes: In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 6-8 minutes until they develop a golden brown color, flipping them frequently. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Peppers and Brown Beef: In the same skillet, toss in the sliced peppers and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and sauté until it’s lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
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Build Flavor: Next, stir in the garlic and onion, cooking for another 2 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Add the tomato paste, letting it cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor.
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Combine and Simmer: Gently return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, sprinkling in the fresh parsley. Mix everything gently, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, covering with a lid; reduce the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
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Melt the Cheese: Remove the lid and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again for 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully into a gooey layer.
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Garnish and Serve: Lastly, garnish with additional parsley and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a cozy meal experience.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes
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Don’t Rush the Potatoes: A good sear adds essential texture and flavor. Give them time to achieve that golden, crispy edge.
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Choose the Right Skillet: Use a 12-inch skillet for even cooking. An overcrowded pan can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients.
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Drain Excess Fat: If using a higher-fat ground beef, drain off the excess fat after browning to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
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Check Potato Tenderness: Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before adding the cheese. This guarantees a creamy finish that pairs well with the savory ingredients.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your preferences. A little extra garlic or paprika can enhance the comfort in this one pot ground beef & potatoes dish!
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy it like the first time!
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Airtight Reminder: Ensure all containers are airtight to keep the flavors of your one pot ground beef & potatoes dish bright and enjoyable.
What to Serve with One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes?
Looking to create a comforting meal with delightful sides that enhance the flavors?
- Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the hearty dish.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of corn pairs wonderfully with savory beef and cheesy potatoes, adding a burst of flavor and festivity.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread with a hint of garlic makes for a perfect companion, perfect for soaking up delicious flavorful broth.
- Steamed Broccoli: The crunch and nutrients of broccoli introduce a vibrant element, balancing the heavier textures of the main dish.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy coleslaw adds a crisp texture, enhancing your meal’s freshness while complementing the rich flavors.
- Red Wine: For an elevated dining experience, serve with a glass of robust red wine, which beautifully complements the depth of the beef.
- Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a decadent chocolate cake; its richness perfectly contrasts the savory flavors of your one pot dish.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and even brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the sliced potatoes, peppers, onions, and minced garlic in airtight containers to maintain their freshness (you can toss potatoes in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning). On cooking day, just combine all the prepped ingredients in the skillet, pour in the broth, and simmer until everything is tender. You’ll enjoy delicious, just-as-satisfying results with minimal effort!
One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Variations
Discover how to customize this comforting dish to suit your cravings or dietary needs!
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Sweet Potato Substitute: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a deliciously sweet and nutritious twist.
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Turkey Alternative: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter protein, still delivering that same hearty flavor.
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Vegan Option: Replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or lentils, adding your favorite veggies for a fulfilling vegetarian dish.
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Cheese Swap: Omit the cheese for a dairy-free meal or experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavorful kick.
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Add Heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra spicy flavor explosion.
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Herb Boost: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that complements the savory notes perfectly.
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Grain Goddess: Serve the beef and potatoes over a base of fluffy quinoa or rice for a hearty, grain-packed alternative!
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Nutritional Boost: Toss in some leafy greens, like spinach or kale, during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutrient punch and vibrant color.
One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this dish?
I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture. Waxy potatoes, such as reds, will hold their shape but won’t provide that creamy mouthfeel we’re after.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing to preserve its flavors and freshness.
Can I freeze One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What if my potatoes aren’t tender after cooking?
If you find that your potatoes are still firm after the suggested cooking time, simply cover the skillet and allow them to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Check for tenderness with a fork; they should easily yield when cooked through. If they still need it, add a splash of extra broth to keep the mixture moist while they finish cooking.
Are there any gluten or dairy considerations for this recipe?
This One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes recipe is naturally gluten-free! You can easily make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients align with your dietary needs.
What type of ground beef can I use?
You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or swap it for ground turkey or even tofu for a lighter or vegetarian twist. The flavors remain robust no matter which protein you choose!
One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and slicing your starchy potatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Chop the onion and parsley, mince the garlic, and slice the peppers.
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown, flipping frequently. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in the sliced peppers and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and sauté until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and onion, cooking for another 2 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
- Gently return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, sprinkle in the fresh parsley, and mix gently. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat, cooking for 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again for 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Garnish with additional parsley and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot from the skillet.