What Can You Make for Dinner Using Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Ground beef and potatoes are the ultimate dynamic duo—they’re affordable, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving comfort food, something quick, or a dish bursting with flavor, these ingredients can create magic in your kitchen. From hearty casseroles to creative skillet meals, there’s something for everyone.
Below are eight delicious dinner ideas featuring ground beef and potatoes that the whole family will enjoy. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort dish that pairs savory ground beef with a rich mashed potato topping.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Potatoes (mashed topping)
- Optional: Onions, carrots, peas
- Beef stock, tomato paste, and spices
How To Make It:
- Sauté ground beef, onions, carrots, and peas until cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add beef stock and tomato paste for a flavorful filling.
- Boil potatoes, mash with butter and milk, and season to taste.
- Layer the beef mixture in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake at 375°F until golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It:
This comforting, protein-packed dish can be prepared ahead of time for easy dinners.
2. Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Rich, creamy, and satisfying, this cheesy casserole is a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Thinly sliced potatoes
- Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Cream of mushroom soup or heavy cream
How To Make It:
- Brown ground beef with onion and garlic; season thoroughly.
- Layer sliced potatoes, ground beef, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup or heavy cream over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake until bubbly and golden.
Pro Tip: Add spices like paprika or thyme for extra flavor.
3. Beef and Potato Skillet
A quick, flavorful one-pan dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Diced potatoes
- Optional: Bell peppers, onions, garlic
- Cheese and your favorite spices
How To Make It:
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then set aside.
- Cook diced potatoes in the same skillet until golden and tender.
- Return beef to the skillet, add vegetables, and season with spices like paprika or cumin.
- Sprinkle cheese on top, let it melt, and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love It:
One pan, minimal cleanup, and endless customization!
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Beef and Potatoes
Take a creative approach by stuffing bell peppers with a hearty mix of ground beef and potatoes.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Shredded or diced potatoes
- Bell peppers
- Tomato sauce and shredded cheese
How To Make It:
- Hollow out bell peppers by cutting off the tops.
- Brown ground beef, mix with boiled potatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Stuff peppers with the mixture, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
5. Ground Beef and Potato Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup—perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Diced potatoes
- Onion, garlic, carrots, celery
- Beef broth and cream
How To Make It:
- Cook ground beef with onions and garlic in a large pot.
- Add potatoes, carrots, and celery, then pour in beef broth. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cream for a rich, velvety finish, and garnish with parsley or cheese.
Why You’ll Love It:
This soup is comforting, filling, and packed with flavor.
6. Loaded Beef & Potato Nachos
Turn ground beef and potatoes into a fun, shareable dish perfect for game nights.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Thinly sliced or diced potatoes
- Cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole
- Taco seasoning
How To Make It:
- Roast or fry potato slices/dices until crispy.
- Brown ground beef, season with taco spices.
- Layer crispy potatoes with beef, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Pro Tip: Add jalapeños for a spicy kick!
7. Ground Beef and Potato Hash
A breakfast-for-dinner favorite that’s hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Diced or shredded potatoes
- Onion and spices (paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes)
- Optional: Eggs for topping
How To Make It:
- Brown ground beef, then set aside.
- Cook potatoes in the same pan until crispy.
- Mix beef back in with onions and spices.
- Top with fried or poached eggs for an extra boost of flavor.
Why You’ll Love It:
Perfect for any time of day, this dish is simple yet delicious.
8. Ground Beef and Potato Tacos
Skip the tortillas and use crispy potato slices as the base for a unique taco experience.
Ingredients Needed:
- Ground beef
- Thinly sliced and fried potatoes
- Taco seasoning, cheese, lettuce, and salsa
How To Make It:
- Brown ground beef, season with taco spices.
- Fry or bake potato slices until crispy.
- Use potato slices as taco shells and top with beef, cheese, lettuce, and salsa.
Pro Tip: Try sweet potatoes for a sweet-and-savory combination.
Final Thoughts
With ground beef and potatoes, the dinner possibilities are endless. Whether you’re whipping up a classic shepherd’s pie, a comforting bowl of soup, or a creative nacho platter, these recipes prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
Which recipe are you excited to try? From hearty casseroles to quick skillet meals, these ideas are guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!