Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, and it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup for me (yay!). Whenever I’m craving something hearty and satisfying, I whip up this recipe. The smell of sautéing onions and garlic fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but feel excited about the deliciousness that’s about to unfold. It’s a dish that warms you up from the inside out, perfect for those chilly evenings or busy nights when you need something quick yet fulfilling.
The best part? You can customize it to your liking! Add in your favorite spices or throw in some veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. Trust me, once you try this loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet, it’ll become a staple in your home too. It’s packed with flavor and goodness that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients List
To create the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet, you’ll need some straightforward ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a great balance of flavor and fat.
- 4 medium potatoes: Dice these into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1 onion: Chop it finely to add sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the skillet with a wonderful aroma.
- 1 cup beef broth: This will keep everything juicy and flavorful as it simmers.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Use your favorite type, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for that melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste, adjusting as needed for the perfect flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding richness to the dish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re just a skillet away from a delicious meal!
How to Prepare Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Making this loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet is straightforward, and I promise it’s totally worth the effort. Here’s how to bring it all together:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat Things Up: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the onions, but not so hot that it smokes. This is where the magic begins!
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Oh wow, your kitchen is going to smell amazing right now!
- Cook the Beef: Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if there’s too much; we want the focus to be on that tasty beef!
- Add the Potatoes and Broth: Now it’s time to introduce the diced potatoes! Stir them into the beef mixture, followed by 1 cup of beef broth. This broth is crucial—it’ll help the potatoes cook and infuse them with flavor. Bring everything to a simmer.
- Cover and Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This is the perfect time to set the table or pour yourself a glass of wine. Just check occasionally to ensure it’s not sticking. You want the potatoes to be fork-tender by the end, so give them a poke with a fork around the 15-minute mark!
- Cheesy Goodness: Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to stir in 1 cup of your favorite shredded cheese. I love using cheddar for that rich, melty goodness! Mix it in until it’s melted and gooey—yum!
- Season to Taste: Finally, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to suit your taste. Give it a good stir, and you’re ready to serve!
And there you have it! A delicious, hearty loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet, all made in one pan. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for any night of the week. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a pan! Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in about 35 minutes!
- One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef and tender potatoes, it’s a meal that satisfies and keeps you full.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite spices or veggies to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
Trust me, once you try it, this skillet will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To ensure your loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite pro tips:
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. Let them turn golden for maximum flavor—they’re the base of this dish!
- Choose the Right Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creaminess. They hold up well during cooking and get deliciously tender.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little heat. It’s a great way to elevate the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using two skillets or cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Let It Sit: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be whipping up this skillet dish like a pro!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
This hearty meal provides a great balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might be a bit drier, so you might want to add a splash more broth or a bit of oil while cooking.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth. The flavor will still be delicious, and it’s a great way to use what you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in some veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even frozen peas. Just add them in when you stir in the potatoes, so they cook evenly. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the skillet over medium heat until warmed through. It’s just as tasty the next day!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
I hope this answers your questions and gets you excited to make this delicious skillet dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet is super easy! Just let the skillet cool down to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I love this dish even the next day; the flavors just get better!
When it’s time to reheat, simply place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it seems a bit dry, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to life. Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, but I recommend stirring halfway through for even heating. Enjoy your delicious leftovers—you won’t be disappointed!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal with the loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet even more delightful, consider pairing it with a few sides that complement its hearty flavors! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover juices from the skillet!
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring a nice crunch and acidity, balancing the flavors of the dish beautifully.
With these sides, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Happy serving!
PrintLoaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet: 7 Comforting Steps
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty one-pan dish featuring ground beef and tender potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef. Cook until browned.
- Add diced potatoes and beef broth.
- Cover and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add your favorite spices.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet