Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe: 7 Secrets to the Best Comfort Dish

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Indulging in a Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm hug on a chilly day. This timeless dish is known for its hearty flavors and comforting appeal. With the perfect balance of ground beef and diced potatoes, seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser that quickly becomes a family favorite. Dive into this culinary journey to discover the secrets that make it truly exceptional, packed with tips and techniques guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients List

Before you embark on creating the perfect Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients together. This ensures a smooth cooking process and guarantees you don’t miss any crucial component that could alter the deliciousness of the dish.

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• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in the Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe, combining to create a melody of flavors that are both simple and comforting. The potatoes add a hearty base, while the beef provides protein and richness. For more on the variety of potatoes you can use, check out this guide to different types of potatoes.

Timing

Understanding the importance of timing in cooking is crucial, particularly for recipes that require the delicate balance of flavors. The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes, broken down as follows:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Preparation involves dicing the potatoes and chopping the onions, which can be accomplished easily within the 15-minute timeframe. The cooking time ensures the ground beef is perfectly browned, and the potatoes are cooked through, absorbing the rich flavors of the spices and broth.

Proper timing ensures that each ingredient contributes its maximum potential, enhancing the end result into something truly extraordinary. Keeping a close eye on the process allows you to adjust the heat levels as necessary, ensuring the dish doesn’t overcook or become too dry.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. This uniform size ensures they cook evenly. Meanwhile, chop the onion finely and set aside. Pat the ground beef dry with a paper towel; this helps in proper browning, which enhances the nutritional benefits of ground beef.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, incorporate the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning enhances the savory flavor, one of the secrets to a delicious Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Spices

After the beef is browned, add the chopped onions to the skillet. Sauté until they become translucent, releasing their sweetness. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme over the mixture. This spice blend creates an aromatic base, setting the stage for the potatoes to shine. Consider these simple cooking swaps for a healthier version.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Introduce the diced potatoes to the mixture. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged to soak up the rich flavors. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the potatoes are cooked through, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot for a delectable experience.

Nutritional Info

Understanding the nutritional content of the Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe can help you enjoy it as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Below is an approximation of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

The ground beef provides essential protein and iron, while potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. Adjusting portion sizes or incorporating side dishes can meet various nutritional needs. For more tips on keeping leftovers fresh, refer to these food storage guidelines.

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking to create a healthier version of the Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe, there are numerous ways to modify the dish without sacrificing flavor:

• Lean Ground Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
• Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, which provide more vitamin A and a unique sweetness that complements the savory beef.
• Vegetable Broth: Use a low-sodium vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth to lower sodium levels.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrients and color.

These alternatives can tailor the dish to suit dietary requirements, providing versatility without compromising on taste.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key when serving the Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe. Here are a few creative ideas:

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• With a Side Salad: Pair this hearty dish with a fresh green salad to balance flavors and add crunch.
• As a Comfort Food: Serve with warm rolls or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Family Feast: Present the dish in a large serving bowl, garnished with parsley, as part of a family meal alongside roasted vegetables.
• Lunchboxes: For a meal prep option, portion into containers and enjoy throughout the week.

Customizing the serving style can make the dish suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned cooks can fall prey to a few pitfalls when preparing this classic dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Rushing the Browning: Ensure the beef is fully browned before adding onions. Browning develops the depth of flavor that defines the dish.
• Skipping the Spices: Do not under-season. Spices bring warmth and complexity; be liberal yet balanced
  

  📝 Recipe

  Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe: 7 Secrets to the Best Comfort Dish

  🍽️ Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 large russet potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and brown the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the onions are translucent.
  4. Add the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
  5. Season and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  6. Final Touches: Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve: Dish out while hot and enjoy your comforting meal.

  ⏱️ Preparation Time

  15 minutes

  🔥 Cooking Time

  25 minutes

  🍴 Servings

  4