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 pound ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I love making One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes for busy weeknight dinners. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, combining ground beef with tender potatoes and hearty vegetables all in one pot. The secret is to let the ingredients simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I often add my favorite herbs and spices for that extra kick, making it a comfort meal that everyone devours. It's a simple yet delicious way to bring the family together around the dinner table!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:05:35.798Z

When I first tried making One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes, I was amazed at how effortless it was to create a hearty meal without multiple pans to clean. I browned the beef, added onions, and let everything simmer until the potatoes were perfectly tender. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, giving each bite that comforting, home-cooked feel.

I've experimented with variations, adding different veggies based on what I have at home. Peas, carrots, or even corn can elevate the dish further, making it adaptable for whatever is in season. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in extra nutrients for the family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A complete meal in one pot, saving on cleanup time
Deliciously seasoned ground beef paired with tender potatoes
Perfectly adaptable for whatever vegetables you have on hand

The Importance of Flavor Development

Simmering the ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables helps create a rich and cohesive flavor profile. Through this process, the beef releases its juices, which infuse the potatoes and vegetables with a savory essence. For the best results, ensure that you brown the beef well before adding any other ingredients; this Maillard reaction is key to deepening the overall taste of the dish. Watching the beef turn from pink to a golden-brown hue is a good sign that you are on the right track.

Incorporating herbs like oregano and paprika not only enhances the taste but also adds layers of complexity. I often recommend adjusting the spices based on your own preferences or trying out different ones such as thyme or rosemary. This adaptability makes the recipe uniquely yours, allowing you to tailor each meal to what you love or have available on hand.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Selecting the right vegetables can significantly alter the health profile and flavor of your One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes. While this recipe calls for a mix of carrots, peas, and corn, feel free to swap in vegetables like green beans or bell peppers, depending on what you have in your fridge. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. If you're using firmer vegetables, consider adding them a few minutes earlier in the simmering process to achieve the desired tenderness.

Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can work just as well as fresh, especially in a dish that simmers away. They eliminate the need for prep time, and they'll cook through quickly when added into the pot. Just be aware that sometimes frozen vegetables can add extra moisture, so you may need to adjust the amount of broth accordingly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftovers is easy thanks to this one-pot meal's enduring flavors. Allow any remaining food to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to make it even more convenient, consider freezing portions for future quick meals. Just make sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. When ready to reheat, you can do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to prevent sticking.

To maintain the flavors while reheating, I recommend gently stirring and letting it warm through without boiling. This method helps preserve the texture of the potatoes and keeps the beef from drying out. If you prefer to use a microwave, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture, heating it in short increments until it is evenly hot.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious one pot meal:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer

Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your one pot wonder!

Enjoy your delicious and easy One Pot Ground Beef And Potatoes!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. You can also make this dish in advance and reheat it for a quick lunch.

Variations to Explore

There's plenty of room to get creative with this recipe. For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These lean meats will still bring protein to your meal while reducing the overall fat content. Additionally, increase the volume of veggies to improve the nutritional profile; adding spinach or kale right at the end, just until wilted, offers a vibrant splash of color and a boost of vitamins.

If you're looking for a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering phase. Adjust them gradually according to your heat preference; a little goes a long way. You might also consider adding cheese on top while serving; a sprinkle of shredded cheddar would melt beautifully atop the warm meal.

Cooking Tools You Need

The right tools can make this meal even easier to prepare. A large, heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for browning the beef and simmering the dish evenly. A Dutch oven is a fantastic choice due to its excellent heat retention. Additionally, using a wooden spoon helps break apart the beef during cooking without scratching your pot. A good-quality knife and cutting board are also essential for efficiently chopping your vegetables.

Investing in a kitchen timer can be quite helpful as well. Timing the simmering phase accurately ensures that the potatoes become perfectly tender, without turning mushy. If you have one with a countdown feature, it allows for a more focused cooking process, freeing you up to do other tasks while dinner simmers away.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and can make the dish lighter while keeping it flavorful.

→ What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.