Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Easy Weeknight Dinner

Name: Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp oil; 1 lb potatoes about 2 medium in ½ inch dice; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 and 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 medium onion chopped; 1 bell pepper chopped; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 2 green onions chopped

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There’s something about crispy potatoes and savory ground beef in one pan that just feels like home. Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is that cozy, no-fuss dinner where everything comes together in about 30 minutesgolden potatoes, seasoned beef, and a little cheese melted on top.

I started making this last spring when I was coming out of my winter comfort food phase and needed something that still felt hearty but didn’t weigh us down. After a long day, I need dinner to be comforting but not heavyand this one delivers every time. The trick I’ve learned after years of blogging is letting the potatoes get a real sear before you stir them; that crispy edge makes the whole thing. My daughter once said it smelled like “Friday night but on a Tuesday,” and honestly, that’s exactly the vibe.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Here’s what makes this one a keeper:

One pan, minimal cleanup. Everything cooks together in a single skilletno extra pots or fuss.
Cozy but not heavy. It’s my go-to when I’m tired and still want dinner to feel like dinner, especially on busy spring nights.
Golden, crispy potatoes. Letting them sit undisturbed gives you those crunchy edges everyone fights over.
Totally customizable. Top it with a fried egg, sour cream, or add a pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling spicy.

What You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)

Ground beef and potato skillet centered hero view, clean and uncluttered

These simple ingredients come together to build serious flavornothing fancy, just smart layering:

Potatoes: Diced small so they crisp up fast and cook evenly with the beef.
Lean ground beef: Keeps things flavorful without a pool of grease.
Bell pepper and onion: Sweet, savory depth that fills in the gaps.
Smoked paprika: A little smoky warmth that makes the whole thing taste like it took way longer than it did.
Cheddar cheese and green onions: The melty, fresh finish that makes it feel complete.

How It All Comes Together

You’ll start by browning the potatoes in oil until they get that golden crust underneathdon’t stir too soon or they’ll steam instead of crisp. Push them to one side, add the beef to the other, and season everything with salt and pepper. Break up the beef and let it cook undisturbed while you stir the potatoes now and then.

Once the beef is browned, toss in the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir it all together and cook until the veggies soften and the potatoes are fork-tender. Turn off the heat, sprinkle on the Cheddar, and let it melt from the steam. Finish with chopped green onions and you’re done.

Step	What’s Happening	Time
Brown potatoes	Crisp edges form, flavor builds	~4 min
Cook beef	Season and sear in same pan	~4 min
Add veggies & paprika	Stir, soften, finish cooking	~4 min
Melt cheese & serve	Let steam do the work	~1 min

Little Tweaks That Make a Big Difference

Want to switch things up? These swaps work beautifully:

Instead of…	Try This
Ground beef	Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles
Cheddar	Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or crumbled feta
Bell pepper	Poblano or diced zucchini
Smoked paprika	Regular paprika + pinch of cumin

Pro Tip: If you want extra richness, top each serving with a fried egg or a big dollop of sour cream. Both are chef’s kiss.

How to Serve and Store It

Serve this straight from the skillet with a simple green salad, tortillas on the side, or over rice if you want to stretch it. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridgejust reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to keep things from drying out.

The cheese might not be as melty the second time around, but honestly? It still tastes great. Sometimes I’ll crack a fresh egg on top of the reheated portion and call it breakfast.

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How I Finally Nailed This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

I burned the potatoes twice and underseasoned the beef once before this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet finally clicked. The trick was browning everything separately first, then letting it all come together at the end. Now it’s the kind of dinner I can make without thinking, and my kids actually finish their plates.

FAQs (Ground Beef and Potato Skillet)

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold potatoes are my top choice because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. Russets work too but can break apart more easily. Cut them into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking. Red potatoes are another good option if you prefer a firmer bite.

How long does it take to cook the potatoes until tender?

The potatoes typically need 12-15 minutes to become fork-tender when cut into small cubes. Start them first before adding other ingredients. Cover the pan for faster, more even cooking. Test with a fork – they should pierce easily but not fall apart.

Should I drain the grease from the ground beef?

Yes, drain excess grease if using beef that’s higher than 85% lean to prevent a greasy dish. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons for flavor and to help brown the potatoes. If using 90% lean or higher, you can usually skip draining. Tilt the pan and spoon out excess fat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This meal tastes best served fresh, but you can reheat leftovers within 2-3 days. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. The potatoes may soften slightly when reheated.

What vegetables can I add to this one pan meal?

Bell peppers, onions, and corn are excellent additions that complement the flavors well. Add firmer vegetables like peppers with the potatoes, and softer ones like corn in the last few minutes. Frozen mixed vegetables work too – just thaw and drain first.

This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet comes together in about 30 minutes and delivers crispy potatoes, savory beef, and that little bit of melted cheese that makes everyone lean in for seconds. It smells like comfort and tastes like a Friday night, even when it’s Tuesday. Simple, satisfying, and honestly one of those dinners that just works.

Want to switch it up? Try topping each serving with a fried egg for breakfast-for-dinner vibes, or stir in a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens. Leftovers reheat beautifully in a skillet with a splash of water. You can also swap the Cheddar for pepper jack if you like a little kick, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular for something a bit different.

I’d love to see how yours turns outsnap a pic and tag me, or drop a comment if you tried any fun add-ins. Did you grow up eating skillet dinners like this? There’s something so grounding about a meal that comes together in one pan and fills the whole house with that warm, savory smell. Save this one for a night when you need dinner to feel easy and kind.