Savory Beef and Potato Skillet
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Savory Beef and Potato Skillet, a quick and hearty meal that brings satisfaction with every bite. This dish showcases the perfect harmony of finely ground lean beef and tender, golden-brown potatoes, seasoned to perfection. It's a household favorite, cherished for its simplicity yet bursting with home-cooked goodness. Serve it alongside fluffy salted white rice and vibrant veggies for a complete meal that the entire family will enjoy. No frills, just deliciousness—perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (raw)
diced potatoes
2 cups (about 1 large potato, peeled and diced into 1/4 inch cubes)
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (for cooking)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (add more to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2
Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced potatoes cut into 1/4 inch cubes, spreading them out evenly. Cook the potatoes for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly browned and mostly tender.
3
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the potatoes. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Stir and flip the mixture often for about 10 minutes, allowing the beef to brown and meld with the potatoes. Note: If using lean ground beef, there's no need to drain the fat, as cooking together enhances the flavor.
4
When the beef is fully cooked and browned, turn off the burner and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well with a spatula, adjusting seasoning as needed with additional salt to taste.
5
Serve hot, accompanied by generous portions of salted white rice and fresh steamed or roasted veggies.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Beef and Potato Skillet?
It is a quick and hearty one-dish meal featuring lean ground beef and tender, golden-brown diced potatoes.
What type of beef is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of lean ground beef.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, the recipe suggests using one large potato that has been peeled and diced.
What size should the potato cubes be?
The potatoes should be cut into small 1/4 inch cubes for even and quick cooking.
How long do the potatoes need to cook?
The diced potatoes should cook for approximately 10 minutes until they are slightly browned and mostly tender.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
If you use lean ground beef, there is no need to drain the fat as it helps enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
What type of oil is best for cooking this skillet?
The recipe specifies using 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
How much salt should I use?
The initial amount is 1/2 teaspoon, but you can adjust and add more to taste at the end.
How long does the beef take to cook with the potatoes?
The beef and potatoes should be cooked together for about 10 minutes until the meat is fully browned.
What are the suggested side dishes for this meal?
It is recommended to serve this dish with salted white rice and fresh steamed or roasted vegetables.
Is this a good recipe for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a perfect meal for weeknight dinners when time is short.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
While fresh potatoes are specified, frozen diced potatoes can be used as long as they are thawed or adjusted for cooking time.
How many ingredients are required?
This recipe requires 4 main ingredients: lean ground beef, diced potatoes, vegetable oil, and salt.
Can I substitute the beef with ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, though the flavor profile will vary.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the core ingredients of beef, potatoes, oil, and salt are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the oil is shimmering before adding the potatoes and stir them occasionally during the 10-minute cook time.
What heat setting should I use?
The skillet should be heated over medium heat.
Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can dice the potatoes ahead of time and keep them in water to prevent browning until you are ready to cook.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, this is a skillet dish where the main components are cooked together in one large pan.
Can I add other vegetables directly to the skillet?
Yes, you can add diced onions or peppers during the beef cooking phase for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
They should be golden-brown on the outside and tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Absolutely, sprinkling shredded cheese over the hot mixture before serving is a popular variation.
What kind of skillet is best for this?
A large cast iron or non-stick skillet works best to ensure the potatoes have enough surface area to brown.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, olive oil is a suitable substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, the cooked beef and potato mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the potato texture may change slightly.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a savory and mild dish, making it very family-friendly.
Can I use red potatoes or Yukon Gold?
Yes, any starchy or all-purpose potato will work as long as they are diced into 1/4 inch pieces.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure you use a large enough skillet or cook in batches to maintain the browning.
What makes this dish 'savory'?
The combination of browning the beef with the potatoes and the addition of salt creates a deep, satisfying savory flavor profile.