Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This crockpot ground beef and potatoes recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It's a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. This recipe ticks all the boxes for healthy meals, easy recipes, and quick dinner ideas, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire. Prepare for a flavor explosion that's both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
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Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This simple step prevents your final dish from being greasy.
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Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the browned beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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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 the beef is cooked through. For best results, allow the flavors to meld during a long, slow cook.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and makes a fantastic, delicious dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crockpot Ground Beef and Potatoes:
- Potato type: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. Russet potatoes can also be used but may become mushy.
- Seasoning: Don't be afraid to experiment with seasonings! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or try other herbs like rosemary or bay leaf.
- Liquid: If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, add a little more beef broth.
- Thickness: For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy crockpot ground beef and potatoes recipe is a surefire winner for any occasion. It's a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of this best recipe!