When it comes to comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet is a go-to. It’s a one-pan meal that brings together hearty beef, tender golden potatoes, and just the right touch of spice. Every bite is full of warmth, flavor, and weeknight practicality.

Perfect for a quick dinner after a long day, this dish delivers both simplicity and satisfaction. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just wholesome basics that turn into something memorable. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this skillet has your back.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best?

Yukon golds or baby yellow potatoes are ideal for this dish. Their buttery texture and ability to hold their shape make them a perfect match for skillet cooking. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes work well too. Just avoid overly starchy varieties like russets, which tend to fall apart during sautéing.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Ground Beef
The star of the dish—adds savory depth and heartiness.

Golden or Baby Potatoes
These bring a creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the beef.

Onion
Diced and sautéed, it lays the flavor foundation.

Garlic
Essential for bold, aromatic notes.

Paprika and Chili Flakes
These add a warm kick without overwhelming the palate.

Salt & Pepper
To enhance and balance all the flavors.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
Adds a final pop of color and brightness to the dish.

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once done, transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside. Drain excess grease, if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of oil if the pan is dry. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Add the sliced golden potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the spices. Cover the skillet with a lid and let cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything cook together for 3-5 more minutes so the flavors can mingle. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve hot straight from the skillet.

How to Serve and Store This Skillet Meal

Serve this dish straight from the pan while it’s hot. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a simple fried egg on top for extra richness. For a cozy family dinner or casual get-together, this one-pan wonder keeps things simple yet satisfying.

Leftovers keep well! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—just cool completely, portion, and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils. Adjust seasoning to taste, as some meat substitutes are already pre-seasoned.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would all work well. Add them in Step 3 so they cook down nicely with the potatoes.

What other spices can I use?

Feel free to add smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist. You can also sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top at the end for melty goodness.

Can I use leftover cooked potatoes?

Yes! If your potatoes are already cooked, just add them after sautéing the onion and garlic. Reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

What type of skillet is best?

A large nonstick or cast iron skillet works best to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet hits the spot, you might love these hearty, satisfying recipes too:

Try the Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a pasta twist that still brings the beefy flavor.
The Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is a meatless favorite with vibrant flavor.
Craving cozy comfort? The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup blends beef and potatoes in a creamy bowl.
Don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for something indulgent and crowd-pleasing.
Or switch it up with the Louisiana Remoulade Sauce and use it to drizzle over any skillet combo for an extra layer of flavor.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different potato or spice combo? Add veggies? I love hearing how you personalize these recipes!

You can find even more of my daily creations and dinner ideas on my Pinterest at Life with Jam.