Potatoes And Ground Beef Hash Recipe

Looking for a hearty, delicious meal that can be made quickly with ingredients you probably already have at home? This Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend brunch. It’s a classic, comforting dish that’s loaded with crispy potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.

This dish is not only flavorful and filling, but it’s also versatile and budget-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a simple yet delicious dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the details!

Why Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash is a Perfect Family Meal

The combination of potatoes and ground beef is a winner in any household. The starchy goodness of potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory, juicy beef. When topped with melted cheese, this dish becomes a comforting classic. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use pantry staples like potatoes, onions, and spices.

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding extra vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty breakfast hash, this recipe will satisfy any craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of ingredients for the Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash Recipe. These amounts will serve around 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes:

• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces (around 1 pound or 450 grams)
• 1 pound (450 grams) lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium white onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced (about 2 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by boiling the peeled and chopped potatoes in water until they are tender but not too soft or mushy. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to hold their shape during the frying process later. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly while you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large, nonstick skillet, heat over high heat and cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Be sure to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain off any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to a separate bowl. Set it aside while you work on the rest of the hash.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes and Onions

In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and parboiled potatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss the ingredients well to ensure the potatoes and onions are evenly coated with seasoning. Cook the mixture, stirring often, for about 5 minutes, or until the potatoes and onions have turned golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Combine and Add Cheese

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the potato and onion mixture. Stir everything together so the beef is evenly distributed throughout the hash. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts completely, making the dish rich and creamy.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once the cheese is fully melted, remove the skillet from heat and serve the hash immediately while it’s hot. Enjoy the dish as-is, or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Potatoes

The key to perfect potatoes in this dish is ensuring they are cooked just right. You want the potatoes to be tender but not mushy after boiling. The trick is to parboil them for 5 to 7 minutes and then let them crisp up when frying with the onions. This gives the hash a beautiful golden brown color and adds a satisfying crunch.

Ground Beef Cooking Tips

When cooking ground beef, make sure to use high heat to brown it properly. Browning the beef develops a deep, savory flavor that elevates the dish. Don’t forget to drain the fat after browning to avoid a greasy hash. Using lean ground beef helps minimize excess fat and keeps the hash light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Potatoes: If the potatoes become too soft when boiled, they’ll fall apart when frying. Be sure to keep an eye on them and drain them as soon as they’re tender.
2. Not Draining the Ground Beef: Failing to drain the beef can leave you with an oily hash. Drain excess fat to keep the texture light and crispy.
3. Stirring Too Often: For a crispy finish on the potatoes, give them time to brown in the skillet. Stir them occasionally, but not too frequently.

Serving Suggestions for Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash

This hash is a meal on its own, but you can always serve it with complementary sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast hash.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
• Pair it with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the hash in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but reheating in a skillet will keep the potatoes crispy.

Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even parmesan.
• Spice it Up: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can boil the potatoes and brown the beef in advance. When ready to eat, simply reheat them together in a skillet and add the cheese.

Q: Can I freeze this hash?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a skillet.

Conclusion

This Potatoes and Ground Beef Hash Recipe is a comforting and versatile meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a quick and easy dish that delivers on flavor. Plus, with so many ways to customize the ingredients, you’ll never get bored with this recipe. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! If you loved this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas.

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