Beef and Potatoes Skillet

This classic one-pan Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet combines two comfort food staples in a single satisfying meal. The spuds slowly soak up the flavorful beef juices, getting perfectly tender while capturing all the rich tastes. This simple dish turns basic ingredients into the ultimate comfort meal you'll crave—just what you need when you want something filling and homey.

I stumbled on this dish during a crazy busy time in my life, and now it's my fallback when I need something quick but tasty. My kids absolutely love how the potatoes drink up all that yummy beef flavor.

Key Ingredients and Smart Shopping Advice

• Ground Beef: Grab the 80/20 mix for better taste. That bit of fat keeps everything juicy and adds tons of flavor.
• Russet Potatoes: Pick ones that feel solid with smooth skins and no green parts. Their starchy nature gives you just the right texture.
• Fresh Garlic: Go for bulbs that feel heavy and have tight skin. Skip the jar stuff—it won't taste nearly as good.
• Beef Broth: Get the low-sodium kind so you can add salt to your liking. Homemade rocks but good store brands work fine too.
• Tomato Paste: Brings a rich, deep taste. The tubes are handy since you can save what's left.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Gives that something-something you can't quite place. Stick with the good brands for best results.

Foolproof Steps for Amazing Results

Step 1: Nail the Meat Cooking

Get your biggest, heaviest skillet really hot until you can feel the heat coming off it. Pour in oil and wait till it looks shiny. Drop the beef in big chunks and let it get brown and crusty before breaking it up more. Keep cooking until all the pink is gone, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Create Your Flavor Base

Toss your onions into the meaty goodness left in the pan—they'll suck up all that flavor. Cook till they're soft and starting to brown. Throw in garlic just long enough to smell amazing, around 30 seconds. Mix in some tomato paste and cook it briefly so it doesn't taste raw.

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After making this countless times, I've figured out that taking your time when browning the meat really pays off. Those extra minutes letting it get crusty make the whole dish taste way better. My grandma always told me, 'Just let the pan work its magic,' and boy was she right.

Cooking Potatoes Just Right

Getting those potatoes perfect comes down to watching your heat and timing. I've messed this up plenty, but now I know that keeping the flame at medium-low once you add the liquid stops the potatoes from turning to mush while they soak up all the good stuff.

Getting That Sauce Spot-On

How much liquid you use really matters here. I've learned it's best to start with just one cup of broth and add more if needed, rather than pouring in too much at first. The potatoes let out water as they cook, which helps make the sauce just thick enough.

Putting Your Own Spin On It

This recipe has become my starting point for all kinds of meals. Sometimes I throw in some bell peppers with the onions, or mix in frozen peas right at the end. In summer, I cut fresh corn off the cob and toss it in—adds such a nice sweetness and crunch.

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This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet isn't just another dish in my rotation—it's my go-to when I need something reliable and comforting. Whether you've got hungry mouths to feed tonight or you're planning meals for your week, this skillet delivers big satisfaction with every bite. The mix of soft potatoes, seasoned beef, and that savory sauce turns simple stuff from your pantry into something really special. Remember, good comfort food isn't about rushing—it's about giving each step the attention it deserves. Take it slow, taste as you cook, and you'll end up with a meal your family will beg you to make again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Which potatoes should I use here?

Russet works great, but yellow or red potatoes can do the job too. Just chop them into even, half-inch cubes to cook evenly.

→ Can this be made in advance?

Totally! Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with some added broth to keep it juicy.

→ How do I keep potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Keep stirring a bit as they cook and adjust the heat to medium-low after covering. Add more broth if things look dry.

→ What can I pair this meal with?

Try a crisp green salad, some steamed veggies, or a slice of crusty bread. Honestly, it's filling all on its own!

→ Do I need to drain ground beef while cooking?

For fatty beef, you can skim off some grease. Skip draining if using lean cuts like 93/7.