One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes

Name: One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Favorites

I love how quick and satisfying this One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is to prepare. With just a single pot, I can whip up a hearty meal that brings everyone to the table within 30 minutes. The combination of seasoned beef with tender potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze since I only have to wash one pot. What more could you ask for?

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:17:36.783Z

When I first made this One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes, I was amazed at how well all the flavors came together. The secret lies in letting the beef brown nicely before adding the potatoes and spices, which enhances the overall taste significantly. During one of my trials, I added a pinch of paprika, and it took the flavor to the next level!

I also discovered that using Yukon Gold potatoes makes a difference because they hold their shape while becoming irresistibly creamy. This dish has become a regular in my weekly rotation, and it’s one that I eagerly share with friends and family.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simplicity of a one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
Heartiness from the combination of protein and starchy potatoes
Quick cooking method perfect for busy evenings

The Importance of Browning

Browning the ground beef is a crucial step in this recipe, as it develops depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Aim for a medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the meat, which will help create that appealing, rich color. Cook the beef until it is no longer pink and has developed a slight crust around 5 to 7 minutes. Remember, if the meat releases too much moisture, it will steam instead of brown, so ensure you drain any excess fat properly before proceeding to the next steps.

When you add the onion and garlic, they'll absorb the savory flavors left in the pot. You can even scrape the bottom of the pot with your wooden spoon to incorporate those bits into the mixture. This technique is called deglazing and contributes to the overall flavor profile.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Selecting the right kind of potatoes is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your dish. I recommend using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets. They become tender and creamy when cooked, complementing the beef beautifully. Avoid waxy potatoes such as Red Bliss, as they hold their shape too well and won't produce that soft consistency you desire home. Cut the potatoes into consistent sizes, around half-inch cubes, to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

Once you add the potatoes to the beef mixture, it's critical to allow them to absorb all the flavors of the broth and spices. Stir them gently to avoid mashing, and monitor their cooking time to avoid over-softening, aiming for 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. You want them to be soft but still hold their shape for the perfect bite.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a fulfilling meal:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep all your ingredients beforehand for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes and paprika, mixing well to coat the potatoes in the beef mixture.

Pour in the Broth

Add the beef broth, ensuring it covers the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 15 minutes.

Stir in the Peas

After 15 minutes, add the frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Enjoy your meal straight from the pot for maximum comfort!

Pro Tips

For more flavor, try adding your favorite herbs such as thyme or rosemary during the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

This One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is a great candidate for meal prep. After it cools completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to the pot to help revive the moisture, and heat over medium-low to avoid overcooking the potatoes and beef. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. When reheating from frozen, do so in a pot over low heat with a bit of broth, stirring frequently to ensure everything warms evenly.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition. Carrots or bell peppers can be added right after the potatoes for a colorful twist. You could also try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce with the broth for an additional layer of umami flavor.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead. The cooking times may slightly vary, so keep an eye on your potatoes as you prepare the dish. Also, adding more vegetables or legumes will help to maintain the hearty essence of the recipe while making it suitable for different dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using leaner cuts of beef or adding more vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or crusty bread works wonderfully as a side.