Ground Beef and Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic with Endless Variations
Ground beef and potatoes – a simple yet incredibly versatile combination that forms the foundation of countless comforting meals across cultures. This classic pairing offers a hearty, satisfying experience, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Let's explore some delicious and easy recipes that highlight this fantastic duo.
Simple Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
This recipe is a quick and easy weeknight winner, perfect for those busy evenings when you need a meal on the table fast.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer until potatoes are tender: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Serve hot: Enjoy!
Shepherd's Pie with a Ground Beef Twist
Shepherd's pie is a beloved classic, and this version uses ground beef for a hearty twist on the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional, for richer mashed potatoes)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richer mashed potatoes)
Instructions:
- Prepare the meat filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add onion and carrots and cook until softened.
- Simmer the filling: Stir in beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Make the mashed potatoes: Mash boiled potatoes with milk/cream and butter (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the meat filling into a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Ground Beef and Potato Chili
This hearty chili is perfect for a chilly evening. It's easily customizable to your spice preference.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 lbs potatoes, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer until potatoes are tender: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, spices, and cheeses to create your own unique ground beef and potato masterpiece! Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Enjoy your culinary adventures!
