Easy Ground Beef and Potato Recipes Quick One-Pan Dinners

Are you constantly battling the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma, especially on busy weeknights? The struggle is real when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying but have zero time or energy for a complicated recipe. It’s a universal kitchen conundrum that leaves many reaching for takeout menus.

The endless cycle of meal planning, grocery shopping, and then the actual cooking can feel overwhelming, leading to dinner fatigue. You want a meal that’s not just quick but also budget-friendly, appeals to everyone at the table, and doesn’t leave you with a mountain of dishes to wash. Finding that sweet spot of convenience, flavor, and minimal cleanup often feels like an impossible quest.

One-pan ground beef and potato recipes are the perfect weeknight solution, combining protein and carbs into a hearty, comforting meal that satisfies all these needs. Most skillet dinners are ready in under 45 minutes, require minimal cleanup, and are easily adaptable for even the pickiest eaters, making them an ideal choice for busy families. As a busy home cook, I’ve perfected the art of the 30-minute one-pan meal, and this classic combination is my family’s absolute favorite.

Tired of the “What’s for Dinner?” Stress? Here’s Your 30-Minute Answer.

One-pan ground beef and potato recipes offer a reliable, quick, and satisfying dinner solution for a busy weeknight that the whole family will enjoy, making them a true weeknight dinner hero. This classic pairing combines budget-friendly ground beef with hearty, versatile potatoes, often in a single skillet, streamlining both cooking and cleanup. They are designed to be stress-free and fast, delivering comforting flavors without the fuss.

Why This Combination is a Weeknight Dinner Hero

This combination is a weeknight dinner hero because it offers unparalleled convenience, affordability, speed, and family-approved flavor, making it a smart choice for any meal plan. The simplicity of using pantry staples and the ability to cook everything in one vessel dramatically reduces both effort and cleanup time, which is invaluable on busy evenings.

Here’s why this dynamic duo excels:

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup after dinner. This is a game-changer for busy households.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes that you likely already have on hand, keeping grocery costs down.
• Fast & Efficient: From prep to table in about 30-40 minutes, these recipes are designed to get a delicious meal on the table quickly.
• Family-Approved Flavor: A savory, comforting taste that even picky eaters love, making mealtime battles a thing of the past.

In my experience, there are nights when the clock is ticking, and hunger pangs are loud. This recipe has saved me countless times, turning potential chaos into a calm, delicious family meal, proving its worth as a true weeknight staple.

3 Easy Ground Beef and Potato Recipes for a Perfect One-Pan Dinner

Our top ground beef and potato recipes include the Classic 30-Minute Skillet, the Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, and the Flavorful Mexican Picadillo con Papas, offering distinct flavor profiles and cooking methods to suit any craving. These variations provide specific, actionable recipes that deliver satisfying results, whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort, cheesy indulgence, or zesty Mexican flavors. I’ve tested and tweaked each of these variations to guarantee perfect results every time, from the crispiest potatoes to the meltiest cheese.

1. The Classic 30-Minute Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

The Classic 30-Minute Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a foolproof, quick, and comforting one-pan meal that brings together savory ground beef, tender diced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a harmonious blend. This recipe is a staple for busy weeknights, offering a simple yet incredibly satisfying dinner solution that requires minimal effort and cleanup. It’s a testament to how delicious basic ingredients can be when cooked together with care.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (93% lean recommended)
• 1 large Yellow Onion, diced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large (12-inch or larger) skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until thoroughly browned. Drain any excess grease to prevent a greasy final dish, then set the beef aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Ensure everything is well combined.
4. Simmer and Cook Potatoes: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet tightly and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. Melt the Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the lid. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover again for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately.

Pro-Tip: For extra crispy potatoes, you can give them a 5-minute head start in the skillet with the onions before adding the beef back in. This helps them get a beautiful golden-brown crust, adding a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

@cookinginthemidwest

Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet is an easy dinner recipe the whole family loves! INGREDIENTS 5 small/medium potatoes olive oil + salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (for potatoes) 1 lb ground beef 1/2 tsp salt and pepper 1/4 tsp cayenne 2 tsp chili powder 1 tsp each of cumin, paprika, and dried cilantro 1 tbsp minced garlic Shredded cheddar cheese 1 1/2 cups white Queso Sour cream Cilantro INSTRUCTIONS Peel, wash potatoes, and cut up into cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (I don’t use exact measurements for this part). Cook potatoes in the air fryer at 400 degrees for about 20-25 minutes shaking them around at least a couple times while they cook. Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any extra grease. Season with salt, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried cilantro, and black pepper. Add minced garlic and stir well. Once the potatoes and ground beef are cooked combine them together in the skillet and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Put the skillet in the oven at 400 degrees F to melt the cheese. Pour warmed up Queso over them. Top with sour cream and cilantro. This is also good wrapped up in tortillas as burritos! #potatoes #tacotuesday #easyrecipes #easydinner #mealideas #groundbeef

♬ original sound – Cooking in the Midwest

Pin this classic weeknight dinner for later!

2. Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

The Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting, oven-baked masterpiece that layers savory ground beef, thinly sliced tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, all smothered under a blanket of golden, bubbly cheese. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family meal, offering a deeply satisfying and indulgent experience. It’s an ideal choice when you want a hearty meal with minimal fuss, as the oven does most of the work.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion, diced
• 1 lb Russet Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup (condensed)
• 1/2 cup Milk or Heavy Cream
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 2 cups Shredded Colby Jack or Cheddar Cheese, divided

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Brown Beef and Onion: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium-high heat, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened, drain any excess fat thoroughly. This step is crucial for a non-greasy casserole.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or heavy cream for extra richness), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine and Layer: Gently fold the cooked beef mixture and the thinly sliced potatoes into the creamy soup mixture until everything is evenly coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
5. Bake Covered: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which helps the potatoes cook through. Bake for 45 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are perfectly tender and the cheese is golden, bubbly, and melted to perfection.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes for easier, cleaner serving.

Lesson Learned: Slicing the potatoes thinly (about 1/8-inch thick) is the key to ensuring they cook through completely and become perfectly tender in the casserole. Thicker slices will require a much longer baking time.

Save this cheesy casserole recipe to your ‘Comfort Food’ board!

3. Flavorful Mexican Picadillo con Papas

Flavorful Mexican Picadillo con Papas is a vibrant, zesty, and comforting Mexican-style ground beef and potato dish, where tender potato cubes and savory ground beef are simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce. This hearty and versatile meal is a staple in many Latin American households, offering a delightful blend of earthy spices and fresh ingredients, perfect for serving with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos. It’s a fantastic way to bring bold, authentic flavors to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 lb Red Potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 medium Onion, diced
• 1 Jalapeño, minced (optional, for heat)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) Diced Tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup Beef Broth
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Cotija cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet (cast iron works beautifully here), brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed, then sauté the diced onion and the optional minced jalapeño for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce: Add the diced potatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, ground cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer Potatoes: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Combine and Thicken: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine it with the potato mixture. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve: Serve warm, garnished generously with fresh chopped cilantro and a dollop of cool sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese for an authentic touch. It’s delicious with warm corn tortillas or rice.

Pro-Tip: For a deeper, richer flavor, let the tomato paste cook with the aromatics for about a minute before adding the liquids. This caramelizes the paste, enhancing its sweetness and acidity, and adds incredible depth to the final dish.

Add some spice to your week! Pin this Picadillo recipe now.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Perfect Ground Beef and Potato Dinners

Making delicious ground beef and potato dinners doesn’t have to be complicated. By keeping a few key tips in mind, you can ensure your meals are consistently flavorful, perfectly cooked, and a hit with everyone at the table. These simple guidelines will elevate your cooking and make these recipes even more enjoyable to prepare.

• Uniform Dicing is Key: Always cut your potatoes into even 1/2-inch cubes (or thin slices for casseroles). This ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are mushy. Consistency is crucial for texture.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When browning ground beef or sautéing vegetables, use a large (12-inch or bigger) skillet. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning, which prevents those delicious caramelized flavors from developing.
• Control the Liquid: Start with the recommended amount of broth or water. You can always add a splash more if needed to prevent sticking or to help the potatoes steam, but too much liquid can make the dish watery. Aim for a rich, flavorful sauce, not a soup.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and spices as needed. Flavors can vary, and a little adjustment can make a huge difference in the final taste. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more of what you love!
• Get Creative: Use these recipes as a base! They are incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other veggies like corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color, or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. Experiment with different spices to find your family’s favorite variation.

People Also Ask About Ground Beef and Potato Recipes

Can you cook ground beef and potatoes together?

Yes, you can absolutely cook ground beef and potatoes together, especially in one-pan skillet recipes, making for a convenient and flavorful meal. The key is to cut the potatoes into small, uniform pieces (like 1/2-inch cubes) so they become tender in the time it takes for the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld with the cooked ground beef. Covering the skillet helps trap steam, cooking the potatoes effectively and ensuring they are soft and delicious.

What is a Mexican dish with potatoes and ground beef?

A very popular and flavorful Mexican dish featuring ground beef and potatoes is called “Picadillo con Papas.” It’s a comforting, savory stew where ground beef and diced potatoes are simmered together in a rich, tomato-based sauce, typically seasoned with onions, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Picadillo con Papas is a staple in many households and is often served with warm tortillas, rice, or as a filling for tacos and burritos.

What spices work best for ground beef and potatoes?

For classic American comfort food ground beef and potato dishes, spices like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano work exceptionally well. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a fantastic umami depth. For a Tex-Mex or Mexican flavor profile, ground cumin, chili powder, and Mexican oregano are essential. Regardless of the cuisine, salt and freshly ground black pepper are fundamental to enhance all the other flavors and should always be used liberally to taste.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – three incredibly delicious, easy, and satisfying ground beef and potato recipes that prove a truly great home-cooked meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. From the classic comfort of a one-pan skillet to the indulgent layers of a cheesy casserole and the vibrant flavors of Mexican Picadillo, these dishes are designed to bring joy to your dinner table without the stress. They’re hearty, budget-friendly, and most importantly, family-approved.

I hope these recipes inspire you to get into the kitchen and create some amazing meals with ease. Which of these one-pan dinners are you excited to try first? Let me know in the comments below!