Ground Beef and Potato Recipes: 10 Delicious Comfort Meals for Any Occasion

The perfect combination of hearty ground beef and versatile potatoes creates budget-friendly meals that your whole family will love. Discover these simple yet satisfying ground beef and potato recipes that transform everyday ingredients into extraordinary comfort food.

Introduction: Why Ground Beef and Potato Recipes Are Kitchen Staples

Ground beef and potatoes are two of the most versatile and beloved ingredients in home cooking worldwide. When combined, they create hearty, satisfying meals that please even the pickiest eaters while remaining budget-friendly. These kitchen staples form the foundation of countless comfort food classics across various cuisines.

What makes ground beef and potato recipes particularly appealing is their adaptability. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or preparing a comforting weekend feast, these recipes deliver on flavor, nutrition, and convenience. From classic casseroles to innovative skillet meals, the combination offers endless possibilities.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ten delicious ground beef and potato recipes that are guaranteed to become family favorites. Each recipe features simple ingredients, straightforward preparation methods, and delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Essential Equipment for Ground Beef and Potato Recipes

Before diving into these mouthwatering ground beef and potato recipes, here’s the basic equipment you’ll need:

• Large skillet or frying pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
• Sharp knife for chopping potatoes
• Sturdy potato masher
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Casserole dish or baking sheet
• Optional: slow cooker or pressure cooker
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Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results for all recipes.

Recipe 1: Classic Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Hash

This one-pan wonder combines seasoned ground beef with crispy potatoes for a meal that works beautifully for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 pounds russet potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• 2 eggs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pan.
4. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high.
5. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes to develop a crust.
6. Stir the potatoes and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
7. Add the onions and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
8. Add the minced garlic, paprika, oregano, and cumin. Stir to combine.
9. Return the ground beef to the skillet and mix everything . Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the flavors meld and potatoes are tender.
10. If using eggs, create wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each. Cover and cook until eggs reach desired doneness.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe 2: Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Soup

This warming soup is perfect for cold evenings when you need something substantial and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 ½ pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add potatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
8. Remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe 3: Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This layered casserole combines seasoned ground beef with thinly sliced potatoes for a comforting baked dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 pounds of potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
5. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in dried rosemary and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
8. Spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
9. Layer the remaining potatoes on top of the beef.
10. Pour beef broth over the entire dish.
11. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
12. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for another 15 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.
13. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe 4: Stuffed Potato Skins with Seasoned Ground Beef

These loaded potato skins make for perfect appetizers or a fun family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 large russet potatoes
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry. Poke several holes in each potato with a fork.
3. Rub potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While potatoes are baking, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
8. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
10. When potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise.
11. Scoop out the potato flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin.
12. Return potato skins to the baking sheet, cut side up.
13. Fill each skin with the ground beef mixture.
14. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
15. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
16. Top with green onions and serve with sour cream.

Recipe 5: Mediterranean-Inspired Ground Beef and Potato Bowl

This flavorful bowl brings Mediterranean spices to the classic combination of ground beef and potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 ½ pounds potatoes, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Greek yogurt for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cubed potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy, stirring halfway through.
4. While potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
7. Add garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
8. Add coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Combine roasted potatoes with the beef mixture.
11. Stir in fresh parsley and mint.
12. Serve in bowls with a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Recipe 6: Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

This classic comfort food features seasoned ground beef topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. While potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add onion and carrots, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
7. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
8. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme.
9. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cook until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes.
10. Stir in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Drain cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
12. Add butter and milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
13. Transfer beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
14. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.
15. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the potatoes.
16. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
17. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe 7: Spiced Ground Beef and Potato Empanadas

These handheld pastries make for perfect lunch boxes, picnics, or casual dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced small
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 packages refrigerated pie crust (or homemade dough)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
6. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cinnamon. Cook for another minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
8. Roll out pie crust and cut into 6-inch circles (using a bowl as a guide).
9. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
10. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press edges together and crimp with a fork.
11. Place empanadas on prepared baking sheets and brush with beaten egg.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
13. Let cool slightly before serving.

Recipe 8: Curried Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

This aromatic dish brings the flavors of curry to the classic combination of ground beef and potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 pounds potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• ½ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Add bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add curry powder and turmeric. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add diced potatoes and stir to coat with spices.
7. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
8. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
9. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more broth.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Recipe 9: Ground Beef and Potato Breakfast Burritos

Perfect for meal prep, these burritos can be made ahead and frozen for quick breakfasts.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound potatoes, diced small
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 8 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce or salsa for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add potatoes and cook until golden and tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
5. Add onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
7. Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for another minute.
8. Return potatoes to the skillet and mix with the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
9. In a separate pan, scramble eggs until just set.
10. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable.
11. To assemble each burrito, place a portion of egg, beef-potato mixture, and cheese in the center of a tortilla.
12. Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly.
13. If freezing, wrap each burrito in foil and place in a freezer bag.
14. To reheat, remove foil, wrap in a paper towel, and microwave for 1-2 minutes if refrigerated, or 2-3 minutes if frozen.
15. Serve with hot sauce or salsa if desired.

Recipe 10: Ground Beef and Potato Stuffed Bell Peppers

These colorful stuffed peppers are both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound potatoes, diced small
• 6 bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place bell pepper halves in a large baking dish.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
6. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
7. Add diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil.
8. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
9. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Fill each bell pepper half with beef and potato mixture.
12. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
13. Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Garnish with fresh basil before serving if desired.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Potato Recipes

1. Choose the right potatoes: For recipes where you want the potatoes to hold their shape (like skillet dishes or soups), use waxy varieties like red or Yukon Gold. For mashed potato recipes, starchy russets work best.
2. Properly brown the beef: Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning ground beef. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning, which adds significant flavor.
3. Season in layers: Add seasoning at different stages of cooking to build depth of flavor. Season the beef when browning, then add more seasonings as you add other ingredients.
4. Drain excess fat: After browning ground beef, consider draining excess fat before continuing with the recipe, especially if using higher-fat-content beef.
5. Par-cook potatoes when needed: For recipes where potatoes and beef cook together, consider partially cooking the potatoes first, as they typically take longer to cook than ground beef.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these ground beef and potato recipes ahead of time?

Most of these ground beef and potato recipes can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for 2-3 days. Casseroles and shepherd’s pie can even be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed. Soups and skillet dishes often taste even better the next day after flavors have had time to meld.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to dishes that may have dried out. For best results when reheating potato dishes, use the oven or stovetop rather than the microwave when possible.

Can I freeze these ground beef and potato recipes?

Most of these recipes freeze well for up to 3 months. For best results, cool completely before freezing in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of potatoes can sometimes change after freezing, becoming slightly softer.

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in all of these recipes. Since turkey is leaner, you may want to add a bit more oil when cooking to prevent dryness. Turkey also has a milder flavor, so you might want to increase seasonings slightly.

How can I make these recipes healthier?

To create healthier versions, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or substitute with ground turkey. Increase the ratio of vegetables to meat and potatoes. For recipes calling for cheese, use reduced-fat options. For mashed potato dishes, use Greek yogurt instead of some of the butter.

What sides go well with ground beef and potato dishes?

Simple green salads, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw make excellent side dishes with these hearty meals. For lighter side options, consider roasted vegetables or a bright citrus salad to balance the richness of the main dish.

Can I cook these ground beef and potato recipes in a slow cooker?

Many of these recipes can be adapted for a slow cooker. Generally, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The soup and shepherd’s pie filling work particularly well in slow cookers.

Conclusion

These ground beef and potato recipes showcase the versatility and comfort of combining these two beloved ingredients. From quick weeknight skillet meals to impressive casseroles for family gatherings, there’s something here for every occasion. By mastering these ten ground beef and potato recipes, you’ll always have delicious options for turning simple ingredients into memorable meals.

Whether you’re cooking for a family on a budget, meal prepping for the week ahead, or simply looking for satisfying comfort food, ground beef and potato recipes deliver consistently delicious results. The combinations of flavors, textures, and cooking methods ensure these dishes will become regular features in your meal rotation.

By incorporating different spices and techniques from various culinary traditions, these recipes prove that everyday ingredients can be transformed into extraordinary meals. Enjoy exploring these recipes and making them your own with personalized touches and family preferences.