Best Ground Beef and Potato Recipes for Cozy, Satisfying Meals

If you’re searching for comforting, flavorful meals that come together with simple pantry staples, ground beef and potato recipes are your ultimate go-to. These two humble ingredients—affordable and endlessly versatile—form the base of some of the most satisfying dinners you’ll ever make.

One of our favorite takes? A rich and savory ground beef stew with mushrooms and carrots, served alongside golden roasted potatoes topped with melted cheese. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and nourishing ingredients—designed to warm your soul while fueling your body.

In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make this cozy dish, plus share tips, variations, and nutrition breakdowns. Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why Make This Ground Beef and Potato Recipes?

This dish isn’t just comfort food—it’s smart food. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Balanced Nutrition

Ground beef delivers protein and iron, while carrots and mushrooms pack in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. The roasted potatoes with cheese add carbs for energy and calcium for bone health.

One Meal, Multiple Textures

You get the tender, juicy stew contrasted by the crisp, golden edges of oven-roasted potatoes. And that melty cheese? Pure bliss.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is flexible. Want it spicier? Add chili flakes. Going low-carb? Swap potatoes for cauliflower.

Ideal for Meal Prep

It stores beautifully and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can double the batch and have healthy, homemade meals for the week.

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Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this nourishing and flavorful dish:

For the Ground Beef Stew:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean, grass-fed preferred)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)

For the Roasted Potatoes and Cheese:

• 4 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or gouda or mozzarella)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss diced potatoes in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.

5. In the final 5 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and return to oven until melted and golden.

2. Make the Ground Beef Stew

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up lumps.

4. Stir in mushrooms and carrots; cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Mix in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.

6. Pour in beef broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper.

7. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Optional: stir in flour to thicken.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon hearty ground beef stew into bowls or deep plates.

2. Add a generous side of cheesy roasted potatoes.

3. Garnish with parsley or grated Parmesan (optional).

4. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a crisp side salad.

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Tips and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based ground “meat” instead of beef.

• Low-Carb Swap: Replace potatoes with roasted cauliflower or parsnips.

• Make It Creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the stew before serving.

• Boost the Fiber: Add green peas, diced zucchini, or chopped spinach in the last 5 minutes of simmering.

• Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can give the stew a gentle kick.

Recipe Variations

Make this your own by trying out different flavor profiles:

Mediterranean Twist

Add chopped olives, a sprinkle of oregano, and a dash of lemon zest to brighten the stew.

Tex-Mex Style

Swap Worcestershire for taco seasoning, add corn and black beans, and top potatoes with pepper jack cheese.

Italian-Inspired

Stir in Italian seasoning and use mozzarella and Parmesan on the roasted potatoes. Serve with garlic bread.

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Nutritional Information

(Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Fat: 28g

• Fiber: 6g

• Calcium: 220mg

• Iron: 4.5mg

• Vitamin A: 4500 IU

• Vitamin C: 18mg

This dish provides a well-rounded macronutrient profile, making it excellent for active lifestyles and families alike.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage

• Store stew and potatoes separately in airtight containers.

• Refrigerate up to 4 days.

• Freeze stew for up to 3 months (do not freeze potatoes for best texture).

Reheating

• Reheat stew in a pot on the stove over low heat or microwave on medium.

• Reheat potatoes in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Serving Tips

• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

• Serve over rice, couscous, or mashed cauliflower for variation.

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Common Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well. Just be sure to add a little extra olive oil and seasoning since they are leaner than beef.

What other veggies can I add to the stew?

Try peas, bell peppers, green beans, or even shredded cabbage. It’s a great way to use up what you have on hand.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you skip the optional flour or use a gluten-free thickener.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor contrast, but mozzarella or gouda are great alternatives for a milder, creamier texture.

Conclusion

When it comes to satisfying, nourishing meals that never disappoint, ground beef and potato recipes truly shine. This hearty beef stew with mushrooms and carrots paired with cheesy roasted potatoes brings together classic comfort and modern nutrition in every bite.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a cozy dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients without the fuss. So go ahead—make it once, and it just might become your new go-to favorite.

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