If you’re looking for a simple, yet satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, this Ground Beef and Potato recipe is perfect. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty, comforting dish that’s full of flavor. The combination of savory ground beef and tender potatoes, seasoned with a hint of sweet pepper and oregano, makes for a delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
To complement this hearty dish, pair it with a refreshing Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts. This salad adds a crisp, tangy contrast to the richness of the ground beef and potatoes, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.
Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dinner recipe. Don’t forget to share your thoughts with me after you’ve tried it! Wishing you a day filled with peace, love, and delicious food 😋.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
- 4-5 Potatoes: The base of the dish, providing a hearty, filling component.
- Olive oil: For cooking the potatoes and ground beef, adding richness and flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the potatoes and the ground beef.
- 1/2 tsp sweet pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and mild spiciness to the dish.
- 450 g / 1 lb ground beef: The protein component, providing savory richness to the meal.
- 1 onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the ground beef.
- 1/2 tsp sweet pepper: Enhances the flavor of the ground beef with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp oregano: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that complements the beef and tomatoes.
- 9 oz crushed tomatoes: Provides a tangy, saucy base that ties the dish together.
- Mozzarella (optional): Adds a creamy, cheesy layer to the dish, making it extra indulgent.
Instructions: How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Dinner
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Slice the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling and thinly slicing the 4-5 potatoes. You can slice them into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference.
- Season and Cook the Potatoes:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced potatoes and season with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 tsp of sweet pepper. Cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. Once cooked, set the potatoes aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Sauté the Onion:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the finely chopped 1 onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add the 450 g / 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season the Beef:
- Season the beef with salt, black pepper, 1/2 tsp of sweet pepper, and 1/2 tsp of oregano. Stir to combine and ensure the beef is well-seasoned.
- Add the Crushed Tomatoes:
- Pour in the 9 oz of crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the beef. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Layer the Potatoes and Beef:
- In a serving dish, layer the cooked potatoes on the bottom. Top with the ground beef and tomato mixture. If you’re using mozzarella, sprinkle it over the top.
- Melt the Cheese (Optional):
- If you added mozzarella, place the dish under a broiler or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the ground beef and potato dish hot, either on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts
This crisp and refreshing salad is the perfect side dish to balance the richness of the ground beef and potatoes. It’s easy to prepare and adds a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients for Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts
- 3 tbsp lemon juice: Adds tangy brightness to the salad.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, black pepper: For seasoning.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth base for the dressing.
- 1 large fennel bulb (thinly sliced on a mandolin): Adds a crisp texture and a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor.
- 1 Granny Smith apple or any green apple (thinly sliced): Adds tartness and crunch.
- 3 celery stalks (thinly sliced): Adds crunch and a fresh, vegetal note.
- Fennel fronds or roughly chopped parsley leaves: Adds freshness and color.
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Parmesan (optional, for topping): Adds a salty, umami-rich finish.
Instructions: How to Make Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in the 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is emulsified.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the fennel bulb, Granny Smith apple, and celery stalks. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- Toss the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables and toss to coat evenly. Add the fennel fronds or chopped parsley and the toasted walnuts, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, if desired. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, alongside the hearty ground beef and potato dish.
Why You’ll Love This Meal
This meal is the perfect balance of hearty and fresh. The ground beef and potatoes are warm, comforting, and full of rich flavors, while the fennel apple salad provides a crisp, refreshing contrast. Together, they create a well-rounded dinner that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.
Final Thoughts
This simple yet delicious Ground Beef and Potato Dinner paired with a Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts is a meal that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you and your family enjoyed it! Wishing you peace, love, and a day filled with delicious food
