Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

This ground beef and potatoes skillet is a weeknight go to that is hearty, flavour packed, and made in one pan. Loaded with seasoned beef mince, tender potatoes, peppers, and spinach, it’s a simple, satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

I’ve been really deep diving one pan dinners at the moment. They are just the perfect thing to throw together for a weeknight meal, where the energy for cooking may be somewhat lacking. If you’re living for meals that can be thrown on a tray, letting the oven do the rest of the the work

This ground beef and potato skillet ticks every box, it’s quick and ready in around 30 minutes, packed with veggies like potatoes, peppers, and spinach, and made extra satisfying with hearty ground beef, all simmered in a rich, flavourful sauce made with tomato paste and a few simple spices. Enjoy it as is, or serve it nachos style with tortilla chips, yoghurt or sour cream, and grated cheese, or spoon it into lettuce cups for a lighter option, and don’t skip the leftovers as they make an excellent omelette filling the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This easy ground beef and potato skillet comes together with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand:

• Ground beef: I prefer extra-lean (around 90%) so there’s no need to drain excess fat, but 80% works just as well if that’s what you have—just drain if needed.
• Onion: Brown, red, or even shallots all work here and add a great flavour base to the dish.
• Potatoes: Use any variety you like—white, yellow, or even baby potatoes. Dice them small so they cook quickly and evenly in the pan.
• Red peppers: Add a pop of colour and natural sweetness that balances the savoury beef.
• Frozen spinach: A super convenient way to boost the veggie content—just thaw and squeeze out any excess liquid before adding.
• Tomato paste: This creates a rich, concentrated flavour and helps form a light, brothy sauce when combined with water or stock.
• Spices: Cumin and paprika bring warmth and depth—simple but so effective in building flavour.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Cook the potatoes: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring often, until they begin to turn golden and slightly tender (they should still be a bit firm), about 5 minutes.

Cook the beef and vegetables: Push the potatoes to the edges of the pan, creating a space in the centre. Add the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, paprika, cumin, and salt. Cook, breaking up the meat, for 5–6 minutes.

Add the sauce: Stir in the water and tomato paste. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the potatoes are fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Finish with spinach: Add the frozen spinach, stir through, and cook for a further 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and serve.

Recipe Variations

• Add more veggies: Mix in button mushrooms, frozen cauliflower rice, or corn for extra flavour, colour, and texture.
• Swap the protein: Ground pork, turkey, chicken, or any other mince works well in place of beef.
• Save time: Use pre-chopped vegetables, frozen potatoes, or frozen mixed veggies to cut down on prep.
• Add spice: For a kick, stir in chilli flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce.

How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freezer: Once cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

Recipe FAQ

More Skillet Meals

One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo (Risoni)

Chili Without Tomatoes

Maple Chicken + Veggies

One Pot Black Bean Curry

If you try this ground beef and potatoes skillet recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make. 

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