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Easy 30-Minute Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

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A quick, one-pan weeknight dinner featuring crispy par-cooked red potatoes and seasoned ground beef, finished with melted cheddar cheese. This comfort food meal is ready in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) red potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 stalks green onions, sliced
  • Sour cream, optional for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Dice the red potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Drain any excess water and pat dry.
  2. Heat a large skillet (preferably 12-inch cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5 minutes.
  3. Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add the diced onion to the empty space and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Mix the beef and onions together. Add the paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  5. Add the par-cooked potatoes to the skillet and spread them out in an even layer. Do not stir for the first 5 minutes to allow a crust to form.
  6. Stir the potatoes and beef together. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the pan with a lid for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
  7. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan; cook potatoes in batches if necessary to ensure crispiness. Dry potatoes thoroughly after microwaving to prevent steaming. Use medium-high heat for best browning. If using lean beef, add a tablespoon of olive oil. For a vegetarian option, swap beef for lentils or tofu. For a low-carb twist, swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, potato skillet, one pan dinner, weeknight meals, quick dinner, comfort food, cast iron skillet, easy recipe

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