Name: Ground Beef Potatoes: Easy & Delicious Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor); 2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces; 1 large Yellow Onion, chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 cup Beef Broth; 1/2 cup Tomato Paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tsp Dried Thyme; 1 tsp Dried Rosemary; 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper; 1/4 tsp Salt (plus more to taste); 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (optional, for thickening); 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Ground beef potatoes, a culinary marriage made in heaven! Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further! This recipe is your ticket to a delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine tender, savory ground beef nestled amongst perfectly cooked, fluffy potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

While the exact origins of this dish are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of ground beef and potatoes has been a staple in countless cultures for generations. From shepherd's pie variations in the British Isles to hearty stews across Europe, the pairing of these two ingredients speaks to a universal desire for simple, nourishing food. It's a testament to the resourcefulness of home cooks who have long relied on ground beef and potatoes as affordable and versatile ingredients.

What makes ground beef potatoes so universally loved? It's the perfect balance of savory and comforting. The richness of the ground beef is beautifully complemented by the mild sweetness of the potatoes. Plus, it's incredibly adaptable! You can customize the recipe with your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup Beef Broth
1/2 cup Tomato Paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tsp Dried Thyme
1 tsp Dried Rosemary
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
1/4 tsp Salt (plus more to taste)
2 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (optional, for thickening)
1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Ground Beef and Vegetables:

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Uniform size is important for even cooking. Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. This helps to prevent them from browning and removes excess starch, which will contribute to a creamier final dish. Set aside.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; allowing the onions to caramelize slightly will add depth of flavor to the dish. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Brown the Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned all over. Drain off any excess grease from the pot. Leaving too much grease in the pot will result in a greasy final product.
Add Flour (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will help to thicken the sauce as it simmers. Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly to avoid a raw flour taste.

Building the Flavor Base:

Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and the spices to bloom. Blooming the spices releases their essential oils and enhances their flavor.
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will add richness to the sauce.

Simmering and Cooking:

Add the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the potatoes are mostly submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more beef broth or water to cover them.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potato cubes and the heat of your stove.
Check for Doneness: After 30 minutes, check the potatoes for doneness. If they are still firm, continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until they are tender. The ground beef should also be fully cooked and tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking. Remember that flavors will continue to meld as the stew sits, so it's best to err on the side of caution when adding seasoning.
Thicken (Optional): If the stew is not thick enough for your liking, you can thicken it further by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and simmer for a few minutes, until thickened.

Serving:

Serve Hot: Ladle the ground beef and potato stew into bowls and serve hot.
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese would also be delicious additions.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Potato Stew:

Choose the Right Ground Beef: I prefer using an 80/20 blend of ground beef for this recipe. It has enough fat to add flavor and richness to the stew, but not so much that it becomes greasy. You can use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but you may need to add a little extra olive oil to the pot to prevent sticking.
Don't Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and disintegrate in the stew. Be sure to check them for doneness frequently and remove the pot from the heat as soon as they are tender.
Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as carrots, celery, peas, or green beans. Add them along with the potatoes and cook until tender.
Use Different Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the stew. Some other options include bay leaf, garlic powder, onion powder, or chili powder.
Make it in a Slow Cooker: This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Make it Ahead of Time: This stew is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve it.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. It's also delicious served over mashed potatoes or rice.

Variations:

Spicy Ground Beef and Potato Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the stew for a spicy kick.
Creamy Ground Beef and Potato Stew: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking for a creamier stew.
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Stew: Substitute sweet potatoes for the russet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious stew.
Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew: Add a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, peas, green beans, and corn, to the stew for a heartier and more flavorful meal.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Ground Beef and Potato Stew!

Conclusion:

This isn't just another recipe; it's a culinary hug on a plate! The combination of savory ground beef and comforting potatoes creates a dish that's both satisfying and incredibly easy to make. From the simple prep to the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, this recipe promises a rewarding cooking experience. You absolutely must try this! But why is this particular ground beef and potatoes recipe a must-try? It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The richness of the browned ground beef, seasoned to perfection, complements the soft, fluffy potatoes beautifully. It's a hearty meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a potluck gathering. Plus, it's incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Want to add a little kick? Throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Craving something cheesy? Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little Parmesan on top before serving. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Here are a few more ideas to get you started: * Shepherd's Pie Twist: Top the ground beef and potato mixture with a layer of mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. * Mexican Fiesta: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, along with some taco seasoning, for a south-of-the-border flair. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. * Garlic Herb Delight: Infuse the potatoes with garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for an aromatic and flavorful twist. * Mediterranean Medley: Incorporate Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a taste of the Mediterranean. * Loaded Baked Potato Style: Bake the potatoes until soft, then top with the ground beef mixture, cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chives. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The possibilities are endless. You can even use different types of potatoes, like Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor or red potatoes for a slightly firmer texture. I'm confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress your family and friends. It's also a great way to use up leftover ground beef or potatoes. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this recipe is designed to be just that. Once you've tried this amazing ground beef and potatoes recipe, I'd love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your feedback in the comments below. Let me know what you loved about it, what you changed, and what you would do differently next time. Your input is valuable and helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what you create!