When you're looking for a budget-friendly meal that can feed a family or small group, ground beef is an excellent choice. This Savory Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious dish that serves 4-6 people without stretching your budget.

- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)

- 4 medium potatoes, diced

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- ½ teaspoon black pepper

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 cup beef broth or water

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Total Cost Estimate (Based on what’s used):

- Ground beef: $5.00

- Potatoes: $2.00

- Onion: $0.50

- Garlic: $0.30

- Bell pepper: $1.00 (optional)

- Frozen peas or corn: $1.00 (optional)

- Tomato paste, spices, and oil: $1.00

Total Cost: $9.80 - $10.80 (approximately $2.00 per serving)

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   - Wash and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about ½ inch). This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.

   - Chop the onion and bell pepper (if using), and mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

   - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.

   - Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

   - Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving just a small amount to cook the vegetables.

3. Add the Vegetables:

   - Push the ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet.

   - Cook the vegetables for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to soften and the onions become translucent.

4. Season and Simmer:

   - Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

   - Pour in the beef broth or water, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Add Frozen Vegetables (Optional):

   - If using frozen peas or corn, stir them into the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They’ll add a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.

6. Serve:

   - Once the potatoes are fully cooked and the liquid has reduced, remove the skillet from heat.

   - Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the beef and potato mixture hot.

- Affordable Protein: Ground beef is typically more affordable than other cuts of beef, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious cooking.

- One-Pan Meal: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup and an easy, no-fuss meal.

- Versatile: This dish can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it adaptable to your pantry and preferences.

- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of beef, potatoes, and warming spices creates a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

- Buy in Bulk: Purchase ground beef in bulk when it’s on sale, then freeze it in portions for future meals.

- Use Less Meat: Stretch the ground beef further by adding more vegetables or even some cooked lentils or beans to the dish.

- Substitute Ingredients: If you don’t have smoked paprika or thyme, use whatever spices you have on hand—cumin or chili powder could be great alternatives.