One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes

Name: One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

I love making One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes because it’s not just easy, but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of savory ground beef and tender potatoes creates a comfort food dish that I find perfect for busy weeknights. I appreciate how everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which is always a bonus in my kitchen!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:37:10.334Z

When I first tried to create this dish, I wanted to find a way to combine flavorful ingredients without spending hours in the kitchen. After some experimenting, I realized that a single pot could bring it all together. Starting with browning the beef gives my dish a rich base that enhances every bite with depth.

I also learned that using baby potatoes is a game changer; they cook faster and maintain their shape better than larger ones. The key to making this recipe even more scrumptious is to add in some spices that complement the beef and potatoes without overpowering them.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple and delicious, perfect for a busy weeknight
One pot means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal
Hearty and filling, sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of ground beef and potatoes in this dish provides a wonderful balance of protein and carbohydrates. Ground beef not only contributes flavor but also a satisfying richness, making this a hearty meal. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, though the overall texture may be slightly different. Just be aware that leaner meats can dry out more easily, so consider adding a spoonful of broth to maintain moisture.

Potatoes are the star of the dish, absorbing the savory flavors from the beef and spices. Using starchy potatoes like Russets provides a fluffy texture, while waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better and add a creamy consistency. If you're in a rush, even frozen diced potatoes can work, just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re tender.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Browning the ground beef is a crucial step that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Cook the beef until it develops a rich brown color, which can take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Make sure to break it into smaller pieces while cooking for even browning. If you notice the bottom of the pot getting too dark, lower the heat to prevent burning, as burnt bits can add bitterness to your dish.

When adding the vegetables, cook until the onions are translucent, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes. The garlic should be added later—just a minute or two—so it doesn't burn. If you see a lot of sticking at the bottom of the pot, deglaze with a splash of broth before adding the remaining ingredients for a more profound flavor base.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to wash and dice your potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your one pot meal with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas into this dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore moisture. For longer storage, this dish also freezes well. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen meal, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For a quick turnaround, use the microwave to defrost it—just be sure to do it in intervals to avoid uneven heating.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Adding vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers not only enhances nutritional value but also adds color to your dish. Incorporate these during the simmer phase when you add your potatoes for the best results. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

For serving, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of hot sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an unexpected twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as chili powder for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store it in the fridge for up to three days, just reheat before serving.

→ How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.