Simple Beef and Potato Skillet
This simple beef and potato skillet is comfort food made easy. Ground beef cooks with onions and spices, while tender potatoes soak up savory flavors, creating a hearty, one-pan meal. A touch of diced tomatoes adds moisture and depth, and minimal ingredients mean it comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner. It’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and customizable, making it a go-to skillet dish everyone will love.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp butter or cooking oil
Instructions
Prep ingredients
Peel and dice potatoes into even cubes for uniform cooking. Dice onion.
Heat skillet
In a large skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat.
Cook onions
Add diced onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Brown beef
Add ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season
Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat beef and onions evenly.
Add potatoes
Stir in diced potatoes, ensuring they are mixed with the beef and onions.
Add tomatoes
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine.
Simmer
Cover skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
Check seasoning
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or additional spices as desired.
Serve
Spoon onto plates directly from the skillet. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese.
Tips
Dice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture.
Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds flavor.
Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
Cover skillet while simmering to cook potatoes faster.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add a splash of water or broth if mixture gets too dry.
Taste toward the end for perfect seasoning.
Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or microwave.
Optional garnish with parsley, green onions, or shredded cheese adds freshness.
Variations
Spicy Skillet: Add 1/2 tsp chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Cheesy Version: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving.
Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, peas, or corn.
Herb Flavor: Include rosemary or thyme with potatoes.
Tomato-Free: Use beef broth instead of canned tomatoes for a lighter version.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes.
Low-Carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Garlic Lovers: Add 2–3 cloves fresh minced garlic.
One-Pot Meal: Serve over cooked rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Asian Twist: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil instead of garlic and onion powder.
Q & A
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but adjust cooking time slightly until tender.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, but cook fully and adjust seasonings.
Can this be made ahead?
Yes, store in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, roughly chop about 2 cups fresh tomatoes.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, stir in shredded cheese at the end or sprinkle on top.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other spices?
Absolutely, paprika, cumin, or chili powder work well.
How do I prevent potatoes from sticking?
Use enough fat and stir occasionally. Covering helps cook evenly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container up to 2 months.
Can I cook this in the oven?
Yes, transfer to a baking dish, cover, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 350–400 kcal
Protein: 25–28 g
Carbohydrates: 30–35 g
Fat: 15–18 g
Fiber: 4–5 g
Sodium: 400 mg (varies with added salt)
Conclusion
This simple beef and potato skillet is a no-fuss, hearty meal that delivers comfort and flavor in one pan. Ground beef, tender potatoes, and onions combine with spices and tomatoes to create a savory, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and ideal for family meals or meal prep. Serve hot and enjoy a classic comfort-food experience.