There’s something about the combination of ground beef and potatoes that speaks directly to the soul of comfort food enthusiasts. Our Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a one-skillet wonder that’s designed to satisfy your cravings for something hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table without a lot of fuss. It’s packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a mix of spices and veggies, all topped off with melted cheese for that perfect finish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a filling meal to prep for the week ahead, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes:
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and cooked all in one skillet for easy cleanup.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or spices.
- Nutritious and Filling: A balanced meal that’s high in protein and fiber.
- Family Favorite: A comforting classic that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredients Notes For Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal for a healthier option, but any type will do.
- Potatoes: Choose a firm variety like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture.
- Vegetables: Onions, garlic, and bell peppers add flavor and nutrition. Feel free to add other favorites like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Adjust according to taste.
- Cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for that gooey, melty top.
Recipe Steps:
- Prep Ingredients: Dice the potatoes into small pieces for quick cooking and chop the vegetables.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook the Veggies: Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened.
- Add Potatoes and Season: Mix in the diced potatoes, seasonings, and enough water to just cover the potatoes. Simmer until the potatoes are tender and the water has evaporated.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. Serve hot.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- 4 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil (for frying potatoes)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Wash, peel (if desired), and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- In the same skillet, add a bit of cooking oil and the diced potatoes. Cook over medium heat until they start to get golden and crispy on the outside. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the beef broth over the potatoes, cover, and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Beef and Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, add the ground beef mixture back into the skillet with the potatoes. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef and potato mixture. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the loaded ground beef and potatoes hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.