Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun slips below the horizon, I can’t help but feel the pull of cozy, comforting flavors—especially when I whip up my go-to dinner: The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes. This hearty dish brings together juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant sweet peppers, all topped with a luscious layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s the ideal solution for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t feel like dealing with endless pots and pans. Not only does this recipe serve up comfort in a bowl, but its customizable nature means you can swap in your favorite proteins, whether that’s ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option. Curious about how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece in just 30 minutes? Let’s dive into this delightful one-pot wonder that promises to become a staple on your dinner table! Why Choose This One Pot Recipe? Simplicity at Its Best: The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes comes together effortlessly in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the comforting richness of beef and creamy potatoes, enhanced by a medley of spices. Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap out proteins—ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian substitute can make this dish your own. Quick and Nourishing: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can enjoy a hearty meal in under 30 minutes! Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with family and guests alike, it’s sure to impress any dinner party, just like my Ground Beef Burrito or Cheesy One Pot Pasta. The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Ingredients • Note: Here’s everything you need to create the heartwarming dish, The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes—let’s get cooking! For the Skillet • Ground Beef – Provides a rich flavor; easily substituted with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option. • Potatoes – Yukon Golds are ideal for a creamy texture; avoid waxy types for the best results. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and flavor; can be swapped with vegetable oil if needed. • Butter – Adds richness to the dish; you can substitute with margarine or omit it for a healthier version. For the Veggies • Romano Peppers – They add sweetness and a pop of color; feel free to substitute with any sweet pepper variety. • Onion – A flavor base that can be swapped for shallots for a milder taste. • Garlic – Enhances aroma and depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch. For Moisture and Flavor • Chicken Broth – Essential for moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is perfect for vegetarian options. For Topping • Cheddar Cheese – Provides a creamy topping; shredded or block cheese works beautifully, and mozzarella is a nice alternative. For Seasoning • Seasonings (salt, black pepper, chili flakes, sweet paprika, Italian seasoning) – Elevate the dish’s flavor; adjust to your taste for a signature touch. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients Begin by prepping all your vegetables for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes. Peel and slice the Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces, then chop the onions and garlic finely. If using Romano peppers, slice them into strips. This will ensure a smooth cooking process, so take about 10 minutes to get everything ready. Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the sliced potatoes and sauté for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also creates a deliciously crispy outside, so keep an eye on them! Step 3: Cook the Peppers After the potatoes are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add more olive oil if necessary, then toss in the chopped Romano peppers. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, or until they become tender and bright in color. Their sweet aroma will fill your kitchen—this is the essential flavor base for our one pot dish. Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring until it’s lightly browned. At this point, you’ll want to see no pink remaining in the meat, which ensures that your dish is packed with flavor and richness. Step 5: Sauté Aromatics Now, stir in the chopped onions and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This combination will enhance the overall depth of flavor in The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes, adding that comforting homestyle essence we love. Step 6: Season and Add Tomato Paste Season your mixture with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, and sweet paprika to taste. Then, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, ensuring it’s well combined. This adds a rich layer of flavor that complements the ground beef beautifully. Let it cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom. Step 7: Combine Everything Return the sautéed potatoes to the skillet along with chopped parsley for freshness. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine, then cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and absorbed some of the broth’s flavor. Step 8: Melt the Cheese Once your potatoes are tender, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gooey topping will make The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes even more inviting—your taste buds will rejoice! Step 9: Serve and Garnish Finally, serve your delectable dish hot from the skillet! Optionally, garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy the heartwarming goodness that this one-pot meal delivers, perfect for cozy nights with family or friends. Make Ahead Options These One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the vegetables—such as slicing the potatoes, chopping the onions, and garlic—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. You can also brown the ground beef and sauté the peppers ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to finish, just combine everything in a skillet with the broth, simmer until tender, top with cheese, and melt—your comforting meal will be just as delicious with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will preserve the delicious flavors and textures of your one pot meal. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing! Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Avoid Spoilage: Remember that moisture is key; always ensure your container is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of your The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes. What to Serve with One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes As you gather around the table, let the comforting aroma of hearty flavors transport you to cozy evenings shared with loved ones. Crusty Bread: The perfect sidekick for soaking up those delicious juices, offering a warm, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy dish. Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh, zesty salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese. Roasted Vegetables: Crunchy, caramelized seasonal veggies elevate your meal with added nutrition and vibrant flavors, inviting everyone to enjoy a colorful plate. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are a lovely addition, making every bite fun and delightful, especially for dipping! Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy slaw introduces an exciting crunch, brightening up the dish with its refreshing flavor profile. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an indulgent twist, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, creating a heartwarming double dose of comfort. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A tall glass of iced tea or a refreshing lemonade complements the meal perfectly, adding a thirst-quenching aspect to your cozy dinner. Variations & Substitutions for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Get creative with your dinner by customizing this comforting dish to suit your tastes! Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar with a dairy-free cheese option for a creamy texture without the dairy. Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat for a delicious vegetarian alternative that’s just as hearty and satisfying. Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed twist that adds vibrant color. Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped green beans, corn, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Each addition brings new textures and tastes that elevate the dish. Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat that wakes up the whole dish! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost. They complement the savory elements beautifully. Alternative Broths: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth or beef broth for varying depth of flavor, depending on your preference. Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different melting factor, each adding its unique flavor profile to the mix. This delightful recipe is a great canvas, just like my cozy Pot Vegetable Beef for those who love to play with flavors! Expert Tips for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Even Cuts: Ensure potatoes are cut uniformly to guarantee they cook evenly and achieve that perfect creamy texture. Nonstick Success: Use a nonstick skillet to prevent ingredients from sticking and ensure a smooth cooking experience. Protein Play: Don’t hesitate to swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based options; just season accordingly for the best results. Careful Simmering: Avoid overcooking the potatoes while simmering; check for tenderness regularly to prevent mushiness in The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes. Boost Flavor: Enhance your dish by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary; they pair beautifully with the other flavors and elevate the experience. The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes? Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using starchy varieties like Yukon Gold potatoes to achieve that creamy texture. Waxy potatoes can result in a firmer, less satisfying bite, so avoid those if you can! How long can I store leftovers of The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes? You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to keep the dish fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Can I freeze The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes? Yes, you can! To freeze this delicious meal, cool the skillet dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. What if my potatoes are cooking unevenly in The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes? To ensure even cooking, always cut your potatoes into uniform pieces. This way, they will all cook through at the same rate. If you find that some are still firm while others are mushy, you may need to regularly check for tenderness while they simmer, adjusting the cooking time as necessary. Are there any dietary considerations for The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes? Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this dish by substituting ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. For a vegetarian option, using veggie broth and omitting the meat creates a delicious, hearty meal without compromising flavor. Always check for allergies related to specific ingredients like dairy or specific spices—your loved ones will appreciate the attention to their dietary needs! The Best One Pot Ground Beef & Potatoes for Cozy Nights A comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Skillet1 lb Ground Beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based meat.4 medium Potatoes Yukon Golds are ideal.2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.1 tbsp Butter Can be substituted with margarine or omitted.For the Veggies2 medium Romano Peppers Substitute with any sweet pepper variety.1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots.2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred.For Moisture and Flavor1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian options.For Topping1 cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded or block cheese works.For Seasoningto taste Seasonings (salt, black pepper, chili flakes, sweet paprika, Italian seasoning) Adjust to your taste. Equipment large skillet Method Preparation StepsPrep all your vegetables—peel and slice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, chop the onions and garlic, and slice the peppers.In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the potatoes for about 6 minutes until golden brown.Remove the potatoes and sauté the peppers in the same skillet for about 3 minutes until tender.Brown the ground beef in the skillet for about 2 minutes, ensuring no pink remains.Stir in the chopped onions and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until translucent.Season the mixture and add tomato paste, cooking for another minute.Return potatoes to the skillet with chopped parsley and add chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet for 2 minutes until melted.Serve hot, optionally garnished with parsley and chili flakes. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesMake sure potatoes are cut uniformly for even cooking. Use a nonstick skillet for best results. Swap proteins as desired, seasoning accordingly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
