Golden baby potatoes and richly seasoned ground beef come together in this cozy, one-pan wonder: the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet. It’s everything you love about hearty home cooking with none of the fuss. This is comfort food that delivers big on flavor and comes together fast—perfect for weeknight dinners, busy households, or when you just want something warm and satisfying without a lot of cleanup.

The beef soaks up a blend of spices and onions, while the potatoes turn creamy and golden, absorbing all the savory juices. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry family, this dish gets the job done and then some. It’s adaptable too: throw in some veggies, top with cheese, or add a fried egg to turn it into a next-level brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

One-skillet magic: Less mess, more flavor.
Quick and simple: Minimal prep, ready in under 40 minutes.
Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Versatile: Great base for add-ins like bell peppers, shredded cheese, or hot sauce.
Family favorite: Even picky eaters love it.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well and develop a creamy texture when cooked. If you only have russets on hand, just be sure to cut them into evenly sized small chunks and keep the skin on to retain texture and nutrients.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Every ingredient in this dish has a purpose, bringing flavor, texture, or heartiness.

Ground beef – Provides a rich, savory base with protein.
Baby potatoes – Tender and buttery, they soak up all the flavor.
Onion – Adds sweet aromatic depth to the skillet.
Garlic – Brings a pungent, savory kick.
Paprika – Adds warmth and a hint of smoky flavor.
Salt and pepper – Basic but essential for balance.
Olive oil – For sautéing the onions and helping the potatoes crisp.
Parsley – Fresh and vibrant garnish to brighten the dish.

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the beef is browned, stir in the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let cook for another minute to bloom the flavors.

Step 4: Add Potatoes

Toss in the halved baby potatoes and stir to combine. Add a splash of water or broth, cover with a lid, and let simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate. Allow the potatoes to crisp slightly, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Your Skillet Dinner

This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, perfect for a small family or leftovers the next day.

To store: Let the skillet cool, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
To reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the mixture.
To freeze: Yes, you can freeze it! Portion into containers, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight before reheating.