Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This red potato and ground beef skillet is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's a delicious blend of savory ground beef, tender red potatoes, and aromatic vegetables, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. This recipe is packed with flavor, making it a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a go-to for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered (depending on size)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Wash and cut the red potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
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Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer: If you prefer a moister dish, pour in the beef broth. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish is delicious on its own or served with a side salad or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Red Potato and Ground Beef Skillet:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of potatoes, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A dash of paprika or chili powder can add extra depth of flavor.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Cheesy Skillet: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Skillet: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy texture.
- Taco Skillet: Add a packet of taco seasoning and top with your favorite taco toppings.
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 red potato and ground beef skillet is a simple, satisfying, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering on flavor and ease. Enjoy!