This recipe combines crispy, seasoned roasted potatoes with a savory ground beef mixture. The potatoes act as the perfect base to soak up all the juices and flavors from the beef and vegetables. The result is a filling and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes (cut into wedges or thick slices)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme for extra flavor
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
- 500g (1 pound) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes or 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works great here)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Roast the Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into wedges or thick slices, depending on your preference. Place them in a large bowl.
- Season the Potatoes: Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle the paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using) over the top. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
- Heat the Oil: While the potatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Garlic and Spices: Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes) and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and become rich in flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the beef mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish:
- Layer the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done roasting, transfer them to a baking dish or serving platter.
- Top with Ground Beef Mixture: Spoon the ground beef mixture over the roasted potatoes, making sure to spread it evenly so that all the potatoes are covered.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
- Roasted Potatoes: Roasting the potatoes gives them a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the saucy, savory ground beef. The combination of soft, fluffy insides and crispy outsides makes them the perfect base for this dish.
- Flavorful Beef Mixture: The ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful topping for the potatoes. The addition of tomatoes adds some acidity, balancing out the richness of the beef.
- Customizable: This dish can easily be customized by adding more vegetables, using different spices, or even topping with shredded cheese or sour cream for extra indulgence.
Variations of This Recipe
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese over the top of the beef and potatoes before serving. You can also pop the dish back in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture. It’s a great way to make the dish even heartier and more nutritious.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can also drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- Serve with a Sauce: If you want to elevate the dish, serve it with a dollop of sour cream, tzatziki, or even a quick homemade garlic aioli.
Tips for Success
- Cut the Potatoes Evenly: Try to cut the potato wedges or slices to a uniform size. This ensures that they cook evenly and all become crispy at the same time.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: When roasting the potatoes, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they are too close together, they will steam instead of roast, preventing them from becoming crispy.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the ground beef mixture as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can always add more garlic, cumin, or paprika depending on your flavor preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of crispy potatoes and a rich, savory ground beef mixture makes it a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is highly customizable based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.
After trying this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite. The roasted potatoes provide the perfect base for the flavorful ground beef mixture, creating a dish that’s comforting, filling, and delicious. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that everyone will enjoy—and it’s likely to become a new staple in your kitchen
