Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further than this crockpot ground beef and potato recipe! This delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights, effortless weekend cooking, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and healthy meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning the beef)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Brown the beef (optional): For a richer flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step isn’t essential, but it adds a depth of flavor many appreciate.
-
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Place the browned (or un-browned) ground beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your potato chunks.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious juices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crockpot Ground Beef and Potatoes:
-
Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 6-hour mark if cooking on low.
-
Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of paprika or cumin would add a nice touch.
-
Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or green beans for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them alongside the potatoes.
-
Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
-
Spicy Beef and Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
-
Cheesy Beef and Potatoes: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
-
Beef and Potato Chili: Add a can of kidney beans or pinto beans for a heartier chili-like dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This crockpot ground beef and potato recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that deliver big on flavor and comfort. Enjoy!