One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Love
I love making One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes for a quick and satisfying meal that warms the soul. This dish combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The best part is how easily you can customize it with your favorite seasonings or add more veggies! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you still want something delicious and hearty for the family.
During a particularly busy week, I stumbled upon this One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes recipe, and it quickly became a family favorite. The magic lies in how the flavors meld together as everything cooks in one pot, allowing the beef to infuse its rich taste into the potatoes and vegetables. I also learned that adding a splash of beef broth at the end enhances the dish even more!
One tip I swear by is to use a mix of russet and baby potatoes for added texture. The russets become creamy while the babies hold their shape, giving the dish a delightful contrast. It’s satisfying, nutritious, and perfect for those nights when I need a delicious meal without fussing over multiple pots and pans.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and comforting with minimal clean-up
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
- Easily customizable with your favorite spices and vegetables
Maximizing Flavor with Seasoning
The seasoning in One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes plays a pivotal role in creating a delicious flavor profile. The combination of paprika and dried thyme not only boosts the savory notes of the beef but also complements the potatoes. If you prefer a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Additionally, experiments with seasoning blends like Italian herbs can provide a delightful twist. Just make sure to adjust the salt accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
In this recipe, salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. As you season, taste-testing is key. After browning the beef and before adding the onions, take a moment to sample the meat mixture. This is your opportunity to fine-tune the seasoning to your preference before the other ingredients are introduced.
Variations to Try
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. If you want to switch up the vegetables, carrots or bell peppers could easily replace the peas. They can add a touch of sweetness and color to the dish. Alternatively, canned diced tomatoes can be incorporated instead of beef broth for a saucier base, introducing a rich acidity that balances the meatiness of the dish beautifully.
For a low-carb twist, consider substituting the potatoes with cauliflower. Simply cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes, and enjoy a lighter version that retains all the flavorful goodness of the original recipe.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Ensure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your one pot meal:
Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Cook Until Tender
Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes.
Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some cheese just before serving or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. Also, try different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for variation.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
This dish is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare a double batch and store half in the freezer. Once cooled, transfer the One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture.
If you're planning to make it ahead and want to keep it fresh, store the cooked dish in the refrigerator. It can last up to four days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory juices. A simple green salad dressed lightly in olive oil and vinegar can also be a refreshing companion to balance the hearty dish.
If you're looking to elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your plate with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese. This adds color, flavor, and an appealing touch that transforms a homey meal into a more inviting feast.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative!
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when browning the beef.
→ Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the meat first, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
→ What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute for a different flavor.
One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
I love making One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes for a quick and satisfying meal that warms the soul. This dish combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The best part is how easily you can customize it with your favorite seasonings or add more veggies! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you still want something delicious and hearty for the family.
Created by: Keira Thompson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Love
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some cheese just before serving or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. Also, try different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for variation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 26g