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; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas; Carrots, diced (1 cup); 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Highlighted under: Cozy Family Meals

I love a good one-pot meal, especially when it involves ground beef and hearty potatoes! This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something delicious without the hassle of multiple dishes. The combination of savory ground beef and tender potatoes makes it incredibly satisfying. Plus, the cleanup is minimal, which is always a bonus in my kitchen. Trust me, this dish packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort, and you’ll have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:49:08.685Z

During my culinary adventures, I discovered that one-pot dishes not only save time but also allow flavors to meld together beautifully. While creating this One Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes, I was amazed at how the seasonings penetrated the meat and potatoes, creating the perfect harmony of taste with each bite. I recommend using a crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious juices!

This meal is not only quick to prepare but also makes for great leftovers. I've often added in seasonal vegetables to the mix, like carrots or peas, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor further. Trust me, this dish keeps evolving in delicious ways!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Hearty and satisfying meal in a single pot
Great for using up leftovers and pantry staples

The Importance of Flavor Depth

Building flavors in this one-pot ground beef and potatoes dish starts with browning the beef and aromatics. It's essential to cook the onion until it's translucent, as this releases its natural sweetness, which balances the savory notes of the beef. Allowing the beef to brown will add a delicious depth to your meal. Look for a slight caramelization at the bottom of the pot; that's where the flavor really develops.

Adding tomato paste is another critical step. It not only thickens the sauce, but it also gives a rich umami flavor that enhances the overall taste. Let the tomato paste cook for a minute or two before adding the broth; this helps to caramelize the sugars in the paste and results in a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Potatoes

When it comes to the potatoes, the size of your dice can significantly affect the cooking time and texture. Aim for uniform pieces around 1-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer a quicker cooking process, you can cut them smaller, but be aware that they may become overly soft or mushy if cooked too long.

As the dish simmers, keep an eye on the potatoes. They are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Overcooking can lead to a grainy texture, so a gentle simmer is key here. If you notice the liquid level is too low before the potatoes are fully cooked, add a splash of broth or water.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Ingredients

1 cup frozen peas
Carrots, diced (1 cup)
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

Cooking Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced potatoes, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the potatoes with the beef mixture.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Finishing Touches

If using, add the frozen peas and any additional spices, and stir well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes before serving.

Serve and Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables or spices to customize the dish to your taste! Also, cooking the ingredients together allows them to absorb each other's flavors, enhancing the overall dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This one-pot meal is excellent for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, make sure to keep the meat and potatoes submerged in the broth to prevent them from drying out. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of extra broth if necessary to refresh its texture. Always stir occasionally to ensure even heating. I find that using a wide pan helps because it allows for more surface area contact with the heat.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish can be served on its own or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. For a fresh touch, consider serving it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity will complement the richness of the beef and potatoes beautifully.

If you want to add a bit of brightness and color, topping the dish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese right before serving can elevate it. I'd recommend sharp cheddar or crumbled feta for a flavorful kick. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra hint of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, pork, or chicken for a different flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, just brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.