One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes

Name: One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped; Shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Collection

I love making One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes because it's a cozy, satisfying meal that brings back fond memories of family dinners. In just one pot, I can create a hearty dish that's packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe only requires a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but I still want a home-cooked meal. Plus, the easy cleanup is a huge bonus for me when I'm done with cooking!

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:09:36.027Z

After several attempts at trying different variations, I figured out the perfect blend of spices that enhances the ground beef and gives the potatoes a wonderful flavor. The secret is in letting them brown slightly before adding any other ingredients, which really makes a difference in developing a rich taste.

I also love adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end for a burst of freshness. This not only elevates the dish aesthetically but also adds layers of flavor that make every bite enjoyable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A satisfying and complete meal in one pot
Flavor-packed beef with perfectly tender potatoes
Quick preparation and minimal cleanup

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is, of course, the ground beef. Opt for a good quality beef with some fat content—about 80/20 is ideal—to ensure a rich flavor and juicy texture. This helps prevent the meat from drying out during cooking. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can substitute effectively, but you may need to adjust cooking times slightly to account for the different fat content.

Potatoes play a crucial role as well, providing heartiness to the dish. I recommend using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as their waxy texture helps them hold their shape during cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can use russet potatoes, but they tend to break down more easily. Just be sure to keep an eye on them while they simmer to avoid mushiness.

Mastering Cooking Techniques

When browning the beef, be sure to use medium heat; too high can lead to burnt bits sticking to the pot. This caramelization not only enhances the beef's flavor but also contributes to the overall depth of the dish. After cooking, you can deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth, scraping up the browned bits to infuse even more taste into your meal.

Timing is key when adding the potatoes and broth. Make sure the liquid comes to a rolling boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot to retain moisture and allow the potatoes to cook evenly. They should be fork-tender after about 25 minutes but keep checking—overcooked potatoes can turn mushy and lose their delightful texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes!

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Shredded cheese

Make sure to wash and prepare your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy each hearty bite!

Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using seasoned diced tomatoes or mixing in some vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish stores well, so consider making a double batch. In the fridge, it will keep for up to four days in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore moisture. You can also use a microwave, but make sure to cover it with a lid to prevent drying out.

If you want to make this meal ahead of time, feel free to complete the steps up to the point of cooking. Assemble all ingredients in the pot and refrigerate overnight. When you're ready to cook, just bring the pot to a boil and continue with the recipe as directed. This not only saves time but allows flavors to meld even more.

Creative Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving, consider offering this dish in bowls with a variety of toppings. Shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can elevate the flavors and allow family or guests to customize their meals. I’ve found that adding a dollop of Greek yogurt in place of sour cream provides a tangy and nutritious alternative.

If you're entertaining, this dish pairs splendidly with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the savory juices. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the beef and potatoes, making for a well-rounded dining experience. You might even consider incorporating some sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, for an added boost of nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner option, though the flavors will be slightly different.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it on the stove over low heat.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish is very filling on its own, but you can serve it with a green salad or some crusty bread.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.