One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes

Name: One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Cooking

I love making One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes on busy weeknights when time is of the essence. This comforting dish comes together quickly, allowing me to enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The flavors meld beautifully as everything simmers together, and it’s always a hit with my family. Plus, the combination of savory beef and tender potatoes creates a satisfyingly filling meal that warms us from the inside out.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-15T08:01:36.267Z

When I first attempted this One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes, I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but it quickly became one of my go-to meals. The key to its success is browning the beef properly and allowing the potatoes to absorb all those delicious flavors. I also like to throw in some herbs for added depth.

One tip I discovered is to use fresh garlic and onion; it really elevates the dish. As I add a splash of beef broth towards the end, it creates a rich, savory base that ties everything together beautifully. Trust me, you’ll love the simplicity of this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple, one-pot convenience with minimal cleanup
Hearty and satisfying meal perfect for the whole family
Rich flavors enhance the tender beef and potatoes

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this dish lies in the choice of ground beef. I prefer using 80/20 beef for its balance of flavor and fat, which keeps the meat juicy as it cooks. If you're looking for a leaner alternative, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may lack the rich flavor of beef. Ensure you season the ground meat well, as this sets the foundation for flavor in the entire dish.

Diced potatoes are another crucial ingredient. I suggest using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape during cooking. If you're in a pinch, Russets can be used, but they tend to break down more, resulting in a creamier sauce. Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly within the designated time.

Perfect Cooking Technique

The key to achieving a rich flavor is properly browning the ground beef. It’s important to let the beef sizzle in the pot without stirring too much initially, allowing it to develop a nice crust. This not only enhances flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish. Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning, and look for golden brown bits on the bottom of the pot, which can be deglazed later.

When adding the broth, ensure it's enough to cover the ingredients fully. This immersion allows the flavors to meld together. If you find you have too much liquid after cooking, you can just remove the lid and let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce it. I often check the consistency towards the end — it should be stew-like, not soupy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious one-pot meal.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil

Ensure everything is well-prepared for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to whip up a tasty one-pot meal.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.

Add Potatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything well to coat the potatoes with the seasoning.

Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour the beef broth over the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Increase the heat and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add Peas and Serve

If using, add the frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir gently and allow to heat through. Once done, serve hot and enjoy your one-pot wonder!

Enjoy the delicious flavors of your one-pot meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can sprinkle cheese on top just before serving or mix in some sour cream for extra creaminess.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight, making the dish even more delicious when reheated. To reheat, a quick stovetop warming works best to maintain texture; just add a splash of beef broth if it seems too thick.

For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as the flavors might mellow in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes makes a wholesome meal on its own, but it can be paired with a simple side salad to add a fresh crunch. A vinegar-based dressing on the salad complements the savory dish beautifully and adds a nice bite. Additionally, some crusty bread can be served on the side for those who enjoy mopping up the flavorful broth.

For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This adds a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the hearty potatoes and seasoned beef, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as alternatives.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce the amount of beef and add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This meal is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.