Indulge in the savory sophistication of a One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner, where hearty qualities merge with elegant simplicity. This dish transforms everyday ingredients into a refined meal, featuring tender ground beef and perfectly roasted potatoes, all harmonizing under a fragrant blend of spices. With its straightforward preparation and vibrant flavors, this recipe stands out as a weekday masterpiece that can impress even the most discerning palates.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Perfect for a busy weeknight or an intimate dinner.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilizes staple pantry items for maximum convenience.
- Impressive Flavor: The rich, umami notes of beef paired with the subtle earthiness of potatoes create a delightful contrast.
Each bite offers not just nourishment but a delightful experience, making this dish a significant upgrade from its ordinary counterparts.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably grass-fed for richer flavor)
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (for a creamy texture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced for maximum aroma)
Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a robust flavor)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Topping
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a creamy finish)
How to Make One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
- Sauté the Base: In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned all over, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, allowing them to mingle with the beef and onion mixture for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the potatoes and beef are well-coated.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and infused with flavor.
- Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are done, taste for seasoning. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover for an additional 2–3 minutes until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
Serve this dish directly from the skillet for a rustic yet refined presentation. Pair it with a lightly dressed arugula salad for a touch of freshness, or with artisan bread to soak up the savory juices. For a restaurant-worthy touch, portion into individual cast iron skillets.
How to Store One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
Once completely cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.
Tips to Make One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
- Brown the Beef Well: Proper browning adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Golds deliver a creamy, buttery texture.
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary elevate the aroma beautifully.
- Cheese Upgrade: Swap cheddar for Gruyère or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can meld together.
Variation
Elevate this dish by replacing ground beef with ground lamb for a more aromatic twist, or substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for subtle sweetness. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter option while keeping great flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Once cooled, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
With its effortless charm and rich, hearty flavors, the One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner proves that simplicity can be sophisticated. It’s an easy, comforting recipe that brings everyone to the table with satisfaction in every bite.
Share your thoughts in the comments below, how would you make this dish your own?
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One-Pan Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A savory and elegant dish featuring ground beef and roasted Yukon Gold potatoes, enhanced with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Incorporate the ground beef into the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, allowing them to mingle with the beef and onion mixture for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to coat the potatoes and beef.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- After the potatoes are done, taste for seasoning. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover for an additional 2-3 minutes until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a different flavor, you can replace ground beef with ground lamb or use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg