Ground Beef Potatoes And Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

When you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and comforting meal that doesn’t demand hours of preparation, a Ground Beef, Potatoes, and Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe is a go-to favorite. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling and flavorful, without having to slave over a hot stove all evening.

There’s something about the combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup that just hits all the right notes. It’s warm, satisfying, and rich in flavor, while still being easy enough for anyone to whip up in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish has the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and comfort.

Let’s dive in and explore how to make this tasty recipe, break down the key ingredients, and discover some expert tips that will make your dish even better. Ready? Let’s go!

Ground Beef Potatoes And Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

This one-pan meal is a lifesaver when you’re craving something warm, filling, and easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Here’s what you need to know to make this delicious dish.

Ingredients Needed

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ground Beef – 1 pound (lean is best, but you can use regular if you prefer)
• Potatoes – 4 medium-sized, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (about 10.5 oz)
• Beef Broth – 1 cup (for added flavor and moisture)
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped (adds sweetness and depth to the flavor)
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (for that aromatic, savory kick)
• Cheese – 1 cup shredded cheddar (optional, but adds a creamy, melty finish)
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
• Salt and Pepper – To taste (adjust based on preference)
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon (for a touch of smoky heat, optional)
• Thyme – 1 teaspoon (fresh or dried)
• Parsley – A handful, chopped (for garnish, optional but makes the dish pop)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get to cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prep The Ingredients

   • Wash and peel the potatoes, then dice them into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces). This ensures they cook evenly.
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
   • If you’re using fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stem.

2. Brown The Ground Beef

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef to the pan and break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat from the beef if needed, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.

3. Sauté The Onions And Garlic

   • Add the chopped onions to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they soften and become translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.

4. Combine The Soup And Broth

   • Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup, followed by the beef broth. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
   • Add the diced potatoes and thyme, and stir again.

5. Simmer And Cook

   • Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
   • Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.

6. Optional: Add Cheese

   • Once the potatoes are cooked through and the sauce is creamy, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt completely into the mixture for a rich, cheesy finish.

7. Garnish And Serve

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
   • Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the key ingredients and why they work so well together in this recipe:

• Ground Beef: This provides a hearty protein base for the dish. The fat in the beef also helps create a rich flavor that’s key to the overall taste of the meal. Lean ground beef is a good choice if you want to keep it a bit lighter, but regular ground beef adds a nice richness.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are a fantastic base for many comfort dishes. They absorb all the flavors from the beef, broth, and mushroom soup, and their starchy texture thickens the dish naturally. Russet potatoes work great for this dish because they break down and get creamy when cooked, while Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape a bit more.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the star of the show when it comes to creating that creamy, velvety texture. It adds a depth of flavor from the mushrooms and complements the savory ground beef. You could substitute this with other cream soups (like cream of chicken) if you prefer, but mushroom soup is ideal for this recipe.
• Beef Broth: The broth helps thin out the cream of mushroom soup and infuses the entire dish with rich, beefy flavor. If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Herbs for Better Flavor: Fresh thyme and parsley can take this dish to the next level. Fresh herbs brighten up the flavor and add a bit of color to the meal.
• Make it a One-Pot Wonder: To minimize cleanup, make sure to use a large skillet or Dutch oven that can accommodate all the ingredients. This way, you’ll have fewer pots to wash afterward.
• Cook the Potatoes First: If you like your potatoes to have a firmer texture, you can par-cook them in the microwave or by boiling them separately for 5 minutes before adding them to the pan.
• Consider Adding Vegetables: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like carrots, peas, or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Cheese Lovers: If you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, you can double up on the cheese. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar would create a gooey, cheesy texture. Just sprinkle the cheese on top and broil for a few minutes for that golden crust!

Recipe Variations

There are countless ways to give this recipe your own twist. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Different Soups: You can swap the cream of mushroom soup with other creamy soups like cream of chicken, or even cream of celery for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version of this dish, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This keeps the dish lighter but still flavorful.
• Sweet Potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. They bring a natural sweetness and a slightly different texture to the dish, making it feel a bit more elevated.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your meals.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the beef for plant-based meat alternatives, and opt for a vegan cream of mushroom soup to make a plant-based version.

Final Words

Ground beef, potatoes, and cream of mushroom soup might sound like simple ingredients, but together, they create a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of savory beef, creamy soup, and tender potatoes is nothing short of satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers great results every time.