This hearty dish combines tasty ground beef with soft, creamy potatoes. It’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy meal at home.
I love how filling it is! You can top it with cheese or add some veggies for a splash of color. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef, as it reduces excess grease. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well too if you prefer a lighter option.
Potatoes: I used standard russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. However, you can switch them for Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with frozen peas or corn for a quick option.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just fine. Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian option.
Tomato Paste: This adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use crushed tomatoes, but you might need to reduce the liquid a bit in your cooking.
How Do You Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to cooking the beef perfectly is all in the browning process. Properly browning your ground beef helps to develop deep flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium. When hot, add the olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until browned.
- Stir occasionally, ensuring it’s browned evenly without steaming. This usually takes 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat if there’s a lot; this keeps your dish lighter and tastier.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to cook. That’s only 40 minutes until you can enjoy a hearty meal of ground beef and potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This will give your dish a delicious foundation!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any fat that accumulates, be sure to drain it off so your dish isn’t greasy.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another minute, allowing all those lovely flavors to combine well together.
4. Add Vegetables and Broth:
Now it’s time to add in the diced carrots and potatoes. Pour in the beef broth and give it a good stir. Bring this mixture to a lively boil—this is where it all starts to come together!
5. Let it Simmer:
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to check occasionally and give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is cooking evenly, and the veggies become tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
Once the potatoes and carrots are tender, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. This step is important to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When everything is ready, ladle the hearty ground beef and potato mixture into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your wonderful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their fluffiness, you can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different type.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Healthier?
Of course! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a leaner option. Additionally, you can increase the veggie content by adding peas, green beans, or bell peppers for more nutrients and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months—just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Cook This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
