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Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

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When comfort food calls, this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet is the ultimate weeknight hero. With tender baby potatoes seared until golden and paired with savory, seasoned ground beef, it delivers the kind of hearty satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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The crispy-edged potatoes are buttery and perfectly cooked, while the ground beef mixture is rich, spiced just right, and full of flavor. This skillet dinner is ideal when you need something quick, filling, and made from ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

  • One pan, zero stress.
  • Budget-friendly ingredients.
  • Customizable with veggies, cheese, or spice.
  • Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
  • Cozy, family-approved comfort food.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For best results, use baby potatoes or small Yukon Golds. Their waxy texture holds up well in the skillet, and they crisp beautifully without falling apart. You can also use red potatoes or fingerlings—just make sure they’re evenly sized for even cooking.


Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Ground Beef: Rich, flavorful, and satisfying, ground beef is the protein star of this dish.

Baby Potatoes: Their small size and creamy texture make them perfect for pan-searing until golden.

Garlic & Onion: The aromatic base that infuses every bite with savory depth.

Olive Oil & Butter: Used for browning and flavor, they help achieve that crave-worthy crisp on the potatoes.

Paprika & Dried Herbs: Add warmth and subtle spice without overpowering the dish.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.

Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshness to balance the richness and add a pop of color.


How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add halved baby potatoes cut side down and cook until golden and crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook another 5-6 minutes until fork-tender. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion for 2 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs. Stir to combine and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Gently toss them with the ground beef mixture. Let everything cook together for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld. Finish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.


How to Serve This Ground Beef Potato Skillet

This recipe makes 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner. Serve it with a side salad, steamed green beans, or some crusty bread to round it out. You can also top it with a fried egg for a delicious brunch twist!

How to Store This Skillet Dish

Cool the leftovers completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat as needed.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage would work well in place of beef.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or spinach in Step 3 with the beef.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Nope. Leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.

Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or even diced jalapeños for a heat kick.

What if I don’t have paprika?
You can substitute smoked paprika, chili powder, or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.


Want More Dinner Ideas with Potatoes?

If you love this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet, check out these hearty meals next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or go all-meat? Maybe tossed in a spicy twist? I love hearing your creative spins.

More dinner inspiration shared daily on my Life With Livia Pinterest board!

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Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet


  • Author: Livia Scott
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

When comfort food calls, this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet is the ultimate weeknight hero. With tender baby potatoes seared until golden and paired with savory, seasoned ground beef, it delivers the kind of hearty satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The crispy-edged potatoes are buttery and perfectly cooked, while the ground beef mixture is rich, spiced just right, and full of flavor. This skillet dinner is ideal when you need something quick, filling, and made from ingredients you probably already have on hand. Great for quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, and family-friendly food ideas.


Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

1 teaspoon salt

0.5 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.

2. Add halved baby potatoes cut side down and cook until golden and crisp, about 6–8 minutes.

3. Flip and cook another 5–6 minutes until fork-tender. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion for 2 minutes until translucent.

5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

6. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink.

7. Season with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes.

8. Return cooked potatoes to the skillet and gently toss everything together.

9. Let cook for 3–4 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use waxy potatoes like baby gold or red for best texture.

Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure potatoes crisp well.

Let the beef cook undisturbed for a minute to brown properly before stirring.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1¼ cups
  • Calories: 425
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: easy dinner, skillet recipe, beef and potato, one-pan dinner

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