Name: Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Ground Beef And Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace, a comforting hug on a plate that brings people back to childhood kitchens and shared family dinners. There’s an undeniable magic in the way tender, savory ground beef melds with fluffy, heart-warming potatoes, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that never fails to satisfy. What makes this classic combination so utterly special? It’s the humble yet powerful alchemy of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight supper or a hearty dish to impress guests, this Ground Beef And Potatoes recipe delivers pure, unadulterated comfort food bliss. Get ready to discover why this enduring favorite remains a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere, a testament to its delicious simplicity and soul-warming appeal.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Ground Beef and Potatoes

This recipe for Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way the flavors meld together as it cooks. We’ll start by getting our potatoes ready, as they’ll need a bit of time to soften and become tender.

First, take your 1.5 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. These are fantastic for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a lovely, buttery texture when cooked. Give them a good scrub under cool running water to remove any dirt. You don’t necessarily need to peel them if you enjoy the slight texture and nutrients the skin provides, but if you prefer a smoother dish, feel free to peel them. Once scrubbed (or peeled), cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniformity in size so they cook evenly. Place these potato cubes into a large bowl and set them aside.

Next, let’s prepare our aromatics. Take your 1 large yellow onion and finely chop it. You want the pieces to be small enough to integrate seamlessly into the dish without being overwhelmingly chunky. Then, mince your 2 cloves of garlic. Finely minced garlic will release its potent flavor throughout the dish, creating a wonderful depth of aroma and taste.

Searing the Ground Beef

Now, let’s get our pan heated and start cooking the star of our dish: the ground beef. Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering – a good indicator that it’s hot enough – carefully add your 1 pound of ground beef. As the beef cooks, use a spatula or spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. We’re aiming for a nice, browned texture here, which will add a lot of savory flavor to the entire dish. Stir and cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink and has developed a rich brown color. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.

Once the ground beef is nicely browned, it’s time to drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for a cleaner-tasting dish and a more pleasant texture. Carefully tilt the skillet and spoon out the rendered fat, leaving just a little bit behind to help sauté the onions.

Building Flavor with Aromatics and Spices

With the ground beef browned and excess fat removed, it’s time to add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them with the ground beef, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma in your kitchen already starting to transform – that’s the magic of sautéed onions and garlic!

Now, let’s introduce our dried herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and the 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to distribute the herbs, allowing their fragrant oils to release into the heat. These classic pairings with beef are sure to elevate the dish. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a good amount and adjust as needed.

Simmering the Ground Beef and Potatoes

It’s time to bring everything together and let the flavors meld. Add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes directly into the skillet with the ground beef and onion mixture. Give everything a good stir to ensure the potatoes are coated with the savory beef and onion mixture.

Next, pour in the 1/2 cup of beef broth. This liquid will not only add more savory depth to the dish but will also help to steam the potatoes and create a lovely, cohesive sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll want to check on the potatoes periodically, giving it a gentle stir to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. If the mixture seems a bit dry during cooking, you can add a splash more beef broth or water.

Finishing and Serving

Once the potatoes are perfectly tender and the flavors have had a chance to marry beautifully, it’s time to finish the dish. Give the Ground Beef and Potatoes one final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. The sauce should have thickened slightly from the starches released by the potatoes, creating a comforting, rustic consistency.

To serve, ladle generous portions of the Ground Beef and Potatoes into bowls. For a burst of freshness and a vibrant touch of color, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of each serving. This simple garnish not only looks appealing but also adds a lovely bright note that complements the rich flavors of the beef and potatoes. This dish is wonderful on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and comforting flavors of this classic Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This delicious and hearty Ground Beef And Potatoes dish is a true comfort food classic, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. We’ve walked through each simple step to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. The combination of savory ground beef and tender potatoes is a winner for a reason – it’s incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. I truly hope you enjoy making and devouring this recipe as much as I do!

Serving this fantastic Ground Beef And Potatoes with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad adds a lovely fresh counterpoint. For variations, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. You could also incorporate diced carrots or peas into the mix for added color and nutrition. Get creative and make this recipe your own!

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. The cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on your meat.

What are some good vegetarian or vegan variations?

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or crumbled firm tofu. For a vegan version, use plant-based ground “meat” crumbles or a hearty mix of mushrooms and vegetables. Ensure you use vegetable broth and omit any dairy in the seasoning.

How long does this dish last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of your Ground Beef And Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.