This Ground Beef and Potatoes skillet is pure comfort food: juicy beef, tender potatoes, and simple seasonings all cooked up golden and delicious. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

Ingredients:
(Serves 4–6)

For the dish:

1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for flavor!)
3–4 medium potatoes, diced small (Yukon golds or russets work great)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but highly recommended)
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup (60 ml) beef broth or water (optional, for extra moisture)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the potatoes:

Heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced potatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and almost tender — about 10–12 minutes.
Remove potatoes from the pan and set aside.

2. Brown the beef:

In the same skillet, add another splash of oil if needed.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink — about 5–7 minutes.
Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Build the flavor:

Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Return the potatoes to the skillet.
Stir everything together and add a splash of beef broth if you want a little extra sauciness.
Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors mingle and the potatoes finish cooking.

To Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and dig in! Serve it straight from the pan with a fried egg on top for a real treat, or pair with a green salad for balance.

Tips & Variations:
✔️ Add frozen peas, corn, or green beans in the last few minutes for a veggie boost.
✔️ Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
✔️ Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
✔️ Love cheese? Melt shredded cheddar on top before serving!

Would you also like a Tex-Mex version with cumin, chili powder, and a little salsa mixed in? 🌮🔥 (It’s awesome for taco night too!)