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Beef and Potato Hash

An icon representing a clock 40 min | easy | low-fat, Mediterranean diet, paleo-friendly
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Introduction

Beef and potato hash is a skillet meal with browned ground beef, tender potatoes, peppers, and simple savory seasonings.

It works well for breakfast, brunch, or an easy weeknight dinner, especially when you want a filling one-pan meal.

Ingredients  (4 servings)

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Ingredients

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Close-up of beef and potato hash cooking in a skillet, with browned ground beef, golden potato cubes, diced red and green bell peppers, and translucent onions mixed together.

How to Make Beef and Potato Hash

  1. Prep the ingredients

    Cut the potatoes into ¾-inch cubes, because that size cooks through without turning overly soft.

    Dice the onion and bell peppers, and measure the seasonings before heating the skillet.

  2. Brown the beef separately

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the beef separately for deeper caramelization.

    Break it into crumbles, cook until no pink remains, then transfer it to a plate.

    Drain off excess fat if needed, but leave a light coating for flavor.

  3. Cook the potatoes and onion

    Add the olive oil, then cook the potatoes and onion until the edges start to brown.

    Stir every few minutes so the cubes form crusty spots without breaking apart.

  4. Season and steam the potatoes

    Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

    Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, using only enough broth to finish the potatoes.

    This small amount keeps the mixture hash-like instead of turning it saucy.

    Cover the skillet and cook until the potatoes are tender.

  5. Add the peppers and beef

    Stir in the bell peppers later so they keep some texture and bright color.

    Return the beef to the skillet and toss everything together.

  6. Reduce and serve

    Uncover the skillet for the final few minutes to reduce the broth and concentrate the beefy flavor.

    Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve hot.

Close-up of beef and potato hash on a white plate, with browned ground beef, golden potato cubes, diced red and green bell peppers, onion, and a small parsley garnish on top.

Substitutions

Yukon Gold potatoes for red potatoes
Red potatoes hold their shape well and give a slightly firmer bite with a clean, buttery flavor.
Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
This swap keeps the savory depth, adds mild sweetness, and still helps the hash taste rich and balanced.
Red and green bell peppers for poblano and orange bell pepper
Poblano brings gentle heat, while orange bell pepper adds sweetness and keeps the skillet colorful.

Tips

Use a wide skillet
A 12-inch skillet gives the potatoes more surface area, which helps them brown instead of steam.
Leave the beef alone at first
Let the beef sit briefly before stirring so it develops darker edges and stronger savory flavor.
Cover only until tender
Keep the skillet covered just until the potatoes soften, or the trapped steam can dull the crust.
Finish with fresh herbs
A little chopped parsley or chives adds color and a fresh note against the rich beef.

Nutrition Facts *

Energy 443 kcal
Protein 40 g
Total Fat 14 g
Carbohydrates 41 g
Dietary Fiber 5 g

* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.

FAQ

Why are my potatoes still firm?
The cubes were likely too large or the heat was too high. Add two tablespoons broth, cover, and cook a few minutes longer.
Why did my hash turn watery?
Too much broth or crowded ingredients can create steam. Uncover the skillet and cook until the liquid reduces.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, and the flavor stays great for several days. Reheat it in a skillet so the potatoes crisp again.
How do I keep the beef from tasting dry?
Use lean beef, but avoid overcooking it during the first browning. Return it near the end so it stays juicy.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty hash tastes great with fried eggs, hot sauce, or sliced avocado for a brunch-style plate.

A spoonful of sour cream adds cool richness, while shredded cheddar melts into the potatoes.

Leftovers also tuck well into warm tortillas for quick breakfast burritos.

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