If there’s one dinner that hits all the right notes—easy, hearty, and budget-friendly—it’s got to be one pan ground beef and potatoes. This simple skillet dish brings together crispy potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich seasonings, all cooked in just one pan for the ultimate no-fuss meal. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for weeknight meal magic or someone who just loves classic comfort food, this recipe has your back.
With only a few ingredients, minimal cleanup, and plenty of options to customize, it’s no wonder this one pan ground beef and potatoes is a favorite across kitchens everywhere. You’ll learn how to prep, cook, and even twist this dish into several delicious variations. Plus, we’ll answer your top questions and share the best tips to nail it every time.
For fans of quick meals with minimal cleanup, one pan ground beef and potatoes is just as simple and comforting as our one pot lemon ricotta spinach pasta—another cozy, weeknight staple.
Why One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
What Makes This one pan ground beef and potatoes So Popular?
When it comes to dinner, simplicity wins. One pan ground beef and potatoes is a one-stop solution for busy evenings. It’s fast, filling, and only needs a few pantry staples. With everything cooked in a single skillet, there’s no juggling multiple pots or trays—just one dish that does it all. And let’s be honest, who wants a sink full of dishes after dinner?
Plus, it fits right into your weeknight routine. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or advanced techniques. The real beauty lies in its versatility: want it cheesy? Add cheddar. Need more greens? Toss in spinach. Craving spice? A sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes does the trick.
Benefits of One Pan Meals for Busy Cooks
One pan meals like this one aren’t just about convenience—they’re about cooking smarter. Here’s why they’re a go-to for home cooks:
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Fewer dishes to clean | Less mess = less stress after dinner |
| Saves time | No flipping between stovetop and oven tasks |
| Easier flavor blending | Ingredients cook together, enhancing taste |
| Cost-effective | Uses basic, affordable ingredients |
| Customizable | Easy to adapt to dietary needs or flavor prefs |
From weeknight saviors to meal prep winners, one pan recipes check all the boxes. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a foodie on the go, this ground beef and potatoes skillet is about to be your new best friend in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect one pan ground beef and potatoes, start with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe:
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (1 lb) | Provides hearty protein and rich flavor; lean beef works best to reduce excess grease |
| Baby potatoes (1.5 lbs) | These cook faster and offer a creamy texture; Yukon Golds are a great alternative |
| Onion (1 cup, diced) | Adds natural sweetness and depth |
| Garlic (4 cloves) | Brings in bold, aromatic flavor |
| Olive oil + Butter | Creates a flavorful base and helps achieve crispy edges on the potatoes |
| Tomato paste (2 tbsp) | Boosts umami flavor and helps thicken the sauce |
| Beef broth (2 cups) | Keeps everything moist and infuses a savory depth |
| Cheddar cheese (1.5 cups, shredded) | Optional, but adds creaminess and gooey texture if making it cheesy |
| Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, oregano | Enhances taste and balances the dish |
These ingredients work together to build a satisfying, full-flavor skillet dinner in no time.
Recommended Substitutions and Add-ons
Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. This recipe is flexible. Here are smart swaps and tasty upgrades to tailor your meal:
Substitutions:
- Ground beef ➜ Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version
- Beef broth ➜ Switch to chicken broth for a softer, lighter flavor or go with vegetable broth for a wholesome vegetarian upgrade.
- Cheddar cheese ➜ Try Monterey Jack for smooth, melty richness, mozzarella for a gentle stretch and subtle flavor, or opt for dairy-free cheese to keep it completely plant-based.
Optional Add-ons:
- Diced bell peppers or mushrooms: Add color and nutrition
- Canned corn or black beans: For a Tex-Mex vibe
- Fresh spinach or kale: Stir in at the end for added greens
- Red pepper flakes or chipotle powder: Spice it up!
These add-ons not only personalize the dish but can help stretch a single meal into multiple servings, ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
By starting with a solid base and mixing in your own flair, one pan ground beef and potatoes becomes a flexible go-to that fits your mood and what’s in your fridge.
Print
One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food made easy. With crispy golden potatoes, juicy ground beef, and melty cheddar all in one skillet, it’s a weeknight dinner win. Perfectly seasoned, quick to make, and ideal for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved or diced
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Potatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until edges are golden. Remove and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the same skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook 1–2 minutes, then add tomato paste and seasonings. Mix well.
- Simmer with Broth: Return potatoes to the pan. Add broth, stir well, and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat, sprinkle cheddar on top, and let it melt. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
For a cheesier version of One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes , add more shredded cheddar and a splash of heavy cream. To make it low-carb, swap the potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini and use lean ground turkey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes
How to Prep Your Ingredients in Advance
Before you turn on the stove, a little prep goes a long way in making your cooking smooth and stress-free.
- Wash and cut potatoes – Slice baby potatoes in half or into small chunks so they cook evenly.
- Dice onions and mince garlic – Set aside in a small bowl so they’re ready when you need them.
- Shred your cheese (if using) – Pre-shredded cheese works, but fresh always melts better.
- Measure out seasonings – Keep your salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano in a small prep dish.
- Have broth and tomato paste ready – You’ll be adding these quickly during cooking, so avoid scrambling mid-way.
This quick prep makes it easy to move from step to step without delay, which is perfect when time’s tight.
Detailed Cooking Process from Start to Finish
Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to bring this one pan ground beef and potatoes dinner to life:
Step 1: Heat the Pan
- Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high until it’s hot and ready for action.
- Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter and let them melt completely.
Step 2: Crisp the Potatoes
- Add 1.5 lbs of chopped baby potatoes into the hot skillet.
- Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, giving it an occasional stir until the edges turn golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove and set the potatoes aside on a plate.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add 1 lb of ground beef to the same pan.
- Use a spatula or ground beef masher to break it up into small crumbles.
- Cook until browned—about 4–5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Add 1 cup of diced onions and 4 cloves of minced garlic to the browned beef.
- Stir and cook for 1 minute, letting the aroma release.
Step 5: Season Everything
- Mix in 2 tbsp of tomato paste, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, ½ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp oregano.
- Stir to evenly coat the beef and onion mixture.
Step 6: Simmer with Broth
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and return the potatoes to the skillet.
- Stir everything well, then cover with a lid and let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer until the broth reduces and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)
- Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheese on top, then stir until melted and gooey.
You now have a skillet packed with flavor, ready to serve and guaranteed to be devoured!
This process ensures that your one pan ground beef and potatoes turn out savory, tender, and full of home-cooked goodness every single time.
Variations of One Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes to Try
One of the best things about one pan ground beef and potatoes is how incredibly flexible it is. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, spicing things up for yourself, or looking for a lighter option, there’s a variation for everyone. Here are a few of the most popular and easy-to-make twists on the classic skillet recipe.
Cheesy Version with Extra Flavor
Want that melty, gooey comfort food vibe? This is the one for you.
- After simmering the potatoes and beef, stir in an extra ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
- Top with a handful of green onions or chives for color and flavor.
- For a richer taste, mix in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream right before adding the cheese.
This variation is great for picky eaters, kids, or those cold nights when only cheese can fix the day.
Tex-Mex Style with Beans and Corn
Bring bold, southwestern flavors into your skillet with this zesty twist.
- Add 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, and ½ tsp smoked paprika along with the other seasonings.
- Stir in ½ cup canned black beans and ½ cup sweet corn after browning the beef.
- Top with shredded pepper jack cheese and chopped cilantro for a final kick.
Pair it with a side of tortilla chips or wrap it in a flour tortilla for an effortless taco night.
Low-Carb Option with Cauliflower or Zucchini
Watching your carbs? No problem—this version keeps things hearty and healthy.
- Swap out the potatoes for bite-sized cauliflower florets or cubed zucchini.
- Adjust cooking time: cauliflower may need a few extra minutes to soften, while zucchini cooks faster and can be added later.
- Consider using ground turkey or lean beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free option to make this keto or Whole30 compliant.
These variations keep your meals exciting, especially when you’ve made one pan ground beef and potatoes part of your regular rotation. Whether you’re craving indulgence or keeping it clean, there’s always a way to mix it up without using more dishes or doubling your cook time.
Love crispy potatoes? You can also try sheet-roasting the potatoes separately for extra crunch—just like in our smashed potato sheet pan recipe, then mix them in for a crispy twist on your one pan ground beef and potatoes.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Recipe
Even a simple dish like one pan ground beef and potatoes can go from good to unforgettable with a few strategic tweaks. These expert tips will help you troubleshoot common problems and elevate your skillet meal game to the next level.
How to Avoid Soggy or Undercooked Potatoes
Potatoes are the star of this recipe, but they can be tricky if not cooked right. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cut them evenly: Uniform chunks (about ½ inch thick) cook evenly and avoid hard centers.
- Start with hot fat: Always heat your oil and butter before adding the potatoes. This helps with crisping the edges instead of steaming.
- Avoid overcrowding: Spread potatoes out in a single layer when crisping. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
- Seal in the steam: After adding the broth, pop on a lid to lock in heat and speed up the potato-softening magic.
If you’re still finding your potatoes undercooked, pre-boil them for 5 minutes before sautéing. It’s a small step that ensures perfect texture.
Tips for Browning Ground Beef Properly
Browning is key for flavor, and rushing this step can leave your dish tasting bland. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium-high heat: This ensures a proper sear and helps caramelize the meat.
- Don’t stir too soon: Let the beef sit untouched for 1–2 minutes before breaking it up. This allows browning rather than steaming.
- Drain excess fat (if not using lean beef): Too much grease can make your dish oily and dull the spices.
- Add aromatics after browning: Onions and garlic should follow the browning to prevent burning and bitter flavors.
The right browning method builds a solid flavor base for the entire dish.
How to Layer Flavors Like a Pro
Skillet meals shine when they’re seasoned thoughtfully. You’re cooking everything together, which means flavors build over time—take advantage of that!
- Toast your spices: Add them after the meat is browned but before adding the broth. A quick toast boosts aroma and depth.
- Deglaze with broth: Scrape the bottom of the pan when you add broth to lift any caramelized bits—that’s where the flavor lives.
- Finish with acid: A splash of lemon juice, vinegar, or even hot sauce at the end adds brightness and cuts through richness.
- Cheese timing matters: Always add cheese off-heat or at the very end to avoid it clumping or separating.
These small touches turn a basic one pan ground beef and potatoes dish into something worthy of a second helping—maybe even a third.
How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef and Potatoes Safely
When you’ve made a big batch of this hearty meal, you’ll want to make sure it stays just as delicious the next day—or even next week. Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, here’s how to handle your dish safely and keep it tasting fresh.
Fridge Storage Tips for Leftovers
For short-term storage, the refrigerator is your best bet. Stick to these simple steps to lock in both safety and great taste for your meal:
- Cool quickly: Let the skillet meal cool at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Don’t leave it out longer than 2 hours.
- Use airtight containers: Divide the leftovers into sealed glass or BPA-free plastic containers to avoid cross-contamination and moisture loss.
- Chill within two hours: Keep leftovers fresh by storing them at 40°F or below. When properly refrigerated, they’ll stay tasty for up to 4 days.
If your dish includes cheese, expect some thickening or congealing in the fridge. That’s normal—just stir well during reheating.
Freezing and Reheating for Meal Prep Success
Planning ahead? This one pan ground beef and potatoes freezes beautifully with just a couple of tweaks.
How to Freeze:
- Let the cooked dish cool fully, then pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers for long-lasting freshness.
- Label with the date and use within 3 months for best taste and texture.
- To avoid mushy potatoes, undercook them slightly if you know you’ll freeze the meal.
How to Reheat:
- Microwave method: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and warm in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each round.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on medium-low. Add a touch of oil or butter to bring back the original texture.
- Add fresh toppings: Sprinkle with a little extra cheese or herbs before serving to revive flavor.
Whether you refrigerate or freeze, storing your one pan ground beef and potatoes the right way ensures it tastes just as good the next day.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
When it comes to comfort food, this one pan ground beef and potatoes isn’t just satisfying—it can also be balanced and nourishing when made with the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re really getting in a typical serving and how to make it even better for your health.
Macronutrient Breakdown of Ground Beef & Potatoes
Below is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 790 mg |
| Potassium | 910 mg |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Even as a hearty skillet meal, this one pan ground beef and potatoes delivers a solid protein punch and a healthy dose of potassium from the potatoes. It’s also naturally gluten-free—perfect for households with dietary sensitivities.
How to Make the Recipe Healthier
Want to enjoy the same great flavors with a lighter touch? No problem. Here are some easy upgrades:
- Use extra lean ground beef or swap in ground turkey for fewer saturated fats.
- Substitute low-sodium broth to cut back on salt without sacrificing flavor.
- Skip or reduce cheese if you’re watching calories or dairy intake.
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrients.
- Roast potatoes separately for a crispier texture and less oil absorption, if you’re oven-friendly.
Pair your one pan ground beef and potatoes with this high protein chicken salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
With a few easy adjustments, your skillet dinner becomes not just fast and flavorful—but also smart and satisfying for your body.
FAQs
How do I store and reheat leftover ground beef and potatoes?
Let the meal cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking—they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and label with the date.
To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals while stirring, or warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture. If you included cheese, you might want to add a bit more while reheating to restore creaminess.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
To keep potatoes from clinging to the skillet, begin with a hot pan and a thin layer of oil. Add the potatoes and leave them alone—don’t stir or flip right away. Letting them sit undisturbed allows a crust to develop, which naturally lifts off the surface without tearing or sticking. Proper heat and timing are key.
Can I cook the beef and potatoes at the same time?
Technically yes—but if you’re chasing that perfect crispy potato bite, patience pays off. Sear the potatoes first to lock in a golden crust. Adding the beef too early releases moisture that can steam the spuds into mush instead of giving you those crave-worthy edges.
Conclusion
If there’s one recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation, it’s one pan ground beef and potatoes. This dish isn’t just quick and easy—it’s hearty, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or just need something satisfying on a busy night, one pan ground beef and potatoes delivers every time.
From the crispy golden potatoes to the seasoned, juicy beef, every bite of one pan ground beef and potatoes is packed with flavor. And with just one pan to clean, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a kitchen pro with minimal effort.
Need it cheesy? Low-carb? Freezer-friendly? No problem. The beauty of one pan ground beef and potatoes is how easily it adapts to your mood, your ingredients, and your lifestyle.
So the next time you’re staring into your fridge wondering what to cook—remember, one pan ground beef and potatoes has your back.
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