Ground Beef and Potato Recipes for Hearty Family Meals
Hearty and comforting, dishes featuring ground beef and potatoes offer a satisfying combination of savory flavors and textures. These recipes provide a versatile base for quick weeknight meals or more elaborate culinary creations, typically characterized by their ease of preparation and budget-friendly ingredients.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For browning the ground beef and simmering the potatoes.
- Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables
- Chef's Knife: For dicing and slicing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Potato Peeler (optional): If peeling potatoes is preferred.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 lbs Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed)
- 1 medium Onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1/2 cup Milk (or cream, for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Step 2: Saut Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add cubed potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the potatoes are coated in the seasonings.
- Step 4: Simmer in Broth: Pour beef broth over the mixture. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, whisk together flour with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. This step can be skipped for a thinner consistency.
- Step 6: Add Milk/Cream and Simmer: Stir in milk (or cream) and heat through. Do not boil. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot. Optional Tips: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Other vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or green beans, can be added along with the potatoes. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened plant-based milk. Baking this dish can be done by transferring the mixture to a greased baking dish after step 6. Bake at 375F (190C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Notes
Variations
Ground beef and potato recipes are exceptionally adaptable. The following variations cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken may be substituted for ground beef. Sweet potatoes can replace white potatoes for a sweeter flavor profile and added nutrients.
- Regional Twists: Chorizo can be incorporated to introduce a Spanish flair. Incorporating curry powder provides an Indian-inspired version. Incorporating Cajun seasoning for Louisiana-style spice.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a low-carb option, cauliflower florets can partially replace the potatoes. A dairy-free version can be achieved by using plant-based milk and ensuring no dairy products are included. Gluten-free recipes can be made by omitting the flour or using gluten-free flour for thickening.
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef and potato recipe is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It may be served as a hearty weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to create a balanced and satisfying meal. For a more elegant presentation, consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The recipe is also suitable for potlucks or casual gatherings.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to preserve the freshness and flavor of this dish. Leftovers should be cooled completely before being transferred to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through or warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. The recipe is also suitable for freezing. When freezing, consider portioning into individual containers for easy thawing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. While freezing extends the shelf life, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, this recipe can be prepared in advance. The flavors tend to meld together even more when allowed to sit for a day or two. Refrigerate until ready to reheat and serve. - Question 2: Can other vegetables be added to this dish?
Answer: Absolutely. Onions, carrots, peas, green beans, and corn are all excellent additions. Add them along with the potatoes to ensure they cook through. - Question 3: How can this recipe be made thicker?
Answer: To thicken the sauce, create a slurry by whisking together a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a small amount of cold water. Stir the slurry into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. - Question 4: Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Answer: Peeling the potatoes is optional and depends on personal preference. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients to the dish. Be sure to scrub the potatoes thoroughly before using.