Rediscover the classic combination of Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a meal bursting with flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the essence of hearty, satisfying cooking, proving that sometimes, the simplest dishes can be the most delightful.

 

A New Take on a Classic Duo

Ground Beef and Potatoes, a seemingly straightforward dish, surprises with its depth of flavor and versatility. It’s a testament to the power of seasoning and the magic of combining humble ingredients in just the right way.

 

Inspiration

The inspiration behind this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the comforting embrace of home cooking. It’s the kind of meal that brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter around the dinner table, and the warmth of shared stories. It’s a reminder of how the simplest ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a meal that is not only nourishing but also rich in flavor and love. This recipe is a nod to traditional home cooking, infused with a few modern twists to enhance its taste and nutritional value.

 

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

 

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe:

 

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced into ¼-inch cubes (Yukon golds recommended)
• 1 pound 93% lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as sriracha), plus additional for serving
• 2 green onions, sliced
• For serving: non-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice (or just more hot sauce)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Potatoes: Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, reduce to medium and add the potatoes. Cook, stirring often, until they start to turn golden and become tender but still firm, about 6 minutes.
2. Add Beef and Vegetables: To the skillet, add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Break apart the meat as it cooks.
3. Seasoning: Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Adjust the hot sauce quantity based on your heat preference.
4. Cook Until Done: Continue cooking, breaking up the beef until the potatoes and onions are tender, and the beef is fully cooked, about 6 to 8 more minutes.
5. Final Touches: Stir in the green onions. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with Greek yogurt, cheese, over rice, or enjoy it on its own with extra hot sauce.

Tips

• Potato Choice: Yukon golds are ideal for their creamy texture and rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties.
• Lean Beef: Using lean ground beef not only makes this dish healthier but also allows the spices to shine through.
• Browning the Meat: Ensure the beef is well-browned for added depth of flavor.

 

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish on its own, or elevate it by serving with Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cheese, or over a bed of rice. For a wholesome breakfast, try reheating leftovers with a fried egg on top.

Variations

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils.
• Cheesy Delight: Add a layer of shredded cheese in the last few minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy experience.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add chopped jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating

• To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat. For a crispy texture, reheat as a hash and top with a fried egg.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the texture change in potatoes upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative.

 

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra veggies like mushrooms.

 

Is it possible to use sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can add a delightful twist to the recipe.

 

A Culinary Revelation

 

 

The Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe exemplifies the culinary principle that simplicity can lead to the most satisfying meals. This dish, with its roots in the timeless combination of meat and potatoes, resonates with the ethos of traditional home cooking while offering a modern twist. It’s a harmonious blend of basic ingredients, each contributing its own unique flavor and texture to create a dish that’s both comforting and unexpectedly nuanced.

 

At the heart of this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the 93% lean ground beef, chosen for its lower fat content yet rich flavor. When combined with the golden, tender cubes of Yukon gold potatoes, the dish takes on a hearty and fulfilling character. The addition of diced onions and red bell peppers not only adds color and crunch but also layers of sweetness and a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor profile. The incorporation of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and oregano introduces depth and complexity, turning a simple meat and potatoes dish into a culinary experience.

 

What sets this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe apart is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in its purest form or customized with various toppings and sides, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. This Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is a celebration of basic cooking done exceptionally well, proving that when humble ingredients are combined with thoughtful seasoning and preparation, the result is a meal that is both deeply satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking the comfort of familiar flavors with a touch of culinary flair.