Ground Beef And Potatoes

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this recipe, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, crumbled tempeh or plant-based ground meat can work well too!

Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for a fluffy texture, but any kind will do. Sweet potatoes can be a tasty alternative, adding a hint of sweetness to the dish.

Bell Pepper: Any color of bell pepper works, so choose your favorite! If you’re out of bell peppers, you could use frozen mixed peppers or even zucchini for a different texture.

Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a substitute. I often mix a couple of cheeses for extra flavor!

How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?

Getting the potatoes tender in this dish takes a bit of technique. Cubing the potatoes into small, even pieces is key, as it helps them cook evenly. Always stir them occasionally to avoid sticking, and cover the skillet to trap steam, cooking them faster.

• After adding the potatoes, cover the skillet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to check on their tenderness and ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Use a fork to poke a piece of potato; if it goes in easily, they’re ready!

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 medium potatoes)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)

Seasonings and Extras:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 35 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and a little translucent.

2. Add Flavors:

Next, add the minced garlic along with the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another minute. This will bring out the wonderful aromas of the spices!

3. Cook the Ground Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir it occasionally for even cooking.

4. Add the Potatoes:

Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes. Stir them into the beef mixture so they are well combined. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.

5. Melt the Cheese:

Once the potatoes are nice and soft, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Put the lid back on and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the skillet from heat. If you’d like, garnish your dish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve this delicious ground beef and potatoes warm, and enjoy your meal!

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat in This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose. Be sure to cook it through until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for poultry or follow specific cooking instructions for meat alternatives.

Can I Make This Dish Healthier?

Sure! To make this dish lighter, consider swapping out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lower-carb option. You can also use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used to cut down on calories!

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Let the dish cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in other vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or carrots. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. You may want to sauté them along with the onions and peppers or add them with the potatoes, depending on their cooking time.