Hamburger Hash Easy Skillet Meal

This easy Hamburger Hash is the ultimate comfort meal when you want something hearty and filling but only want to clean up one pan. It transforms everyday staples like potatoes and ground beef into a bubbling skillet loaded with cheesy flavor and vibrant veggies. My family always lights up when this hits the table because it feels cozy and satisfying no matter the weather outside.

When I first made this after a long work day I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how there were never leftovers My kids started calling it the cheesy skillet dinner and it is a weekly favorite at our house

Ingredients

• Ground beef: delivers savory heartiness Choose an 80-85 percent lean blend for flavor without too much grease
• Red bell pepper: gives sweetness and a touch of color Look for firm heavy peppers with glossy skin
• Green bell pepper: adds balance and classic hash taste You want it crisp and brightly colored
• Onion: builds flavor at the base Choose yellow or sweet for the best results
• Potatoes: make it filling and soak up all the flavors Russets or Yukon Golds hold their shape and get creamy inside
• Olive oil: helps everything brown evenly Use extra virgin for a touch of richness
• Garlic powder: infuses a warm savory layer Go for a fresh jar for the strongest taste
• Paprika: adds a gentle smokiness Try smoked paprika for even more depth
• Italian seasoning: brings herby notes You can use your favorite blend or just dried oregano
• Salt and pepper: round out the flavors Choose fresh-ground pepper and kosher salt
• Beef stock: gives moisture and extra richness Look for low sodium if you want more control
• Colby Jack cheese: melts creamy and smooth Shred your own cheese for the best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Beef and Veggies:

Start with a large skillet on medium heat Add the ground beef red and green bell peppers and onions Break up the beef with a spoon Cook for at least eight to ten minutes until the beef is completely browned and the vegetables are just turning tender This slow cook at the beginning lets all the flavors blend together

Add Potatoes and Seasonings:

Toss in your diced potatoes making sure they are cut into small even pieces Drizzle in olive oil then sprinkle over garlic powder paprika Italian seasoning salt and pepper Stir well so every potato gets coated with the seasonings and oil Mixing thoroughly here guarantees all the seasoning seeps into every bite

Steam the Potatoes:

Pour in the beef stock and quickly stir Using a lid cover the skillet and let it cook for about fifteen to twenty minutes Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom When the potatoes are fork tender and almost all the liquid is absorbed you are ready for the cheesy finish

Melt the Cheese:

Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack all over the hot hash Cover the pan one more time Let it sit for a few minutes undisturbed so the cheese melts into creamy pools Serve hot right out of the skillet

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My favorite part is always the browned cheesy edges at the bottom of the skillet Sometimes I will sneak a few extra bits of cheese just for that golden crispiness There is a running joke in my family that whoever gets the cheesiest section wins dinner

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days Refrigerate promptly after serving Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist I love packing leftovers for lunch because they taste just as good reheated

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of Colby Jack try cheddar mozzarella or even pepper jack You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter version Sweet potatoes or even cauliflower florets make great swaps for the potatoes in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hash as is for a simple dinner or pile it onto toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich Top with a fried egg for a brunchy vibe or add a splash of hot sauce if you like a little kick This hash is also perfect with a side of greens or a crisp salad

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Cultural Context

Hamburger Hash is a cozy American skillet meal that became popular as a thrifty way to stretch ground beef and potatoes With its roots in home kitchens across the country it is a classic example of making magic from staple ingredients It reminds me of meals my grandmother made during busy weeks when everyone needed a filling supper

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best in this dish?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold their shape and absorb flavors well, making them ideal choices for this skillet meal.

→ Can different cheese varieties be used?

Yes, cheddar or Monterey Jack are tasty alternatives to Colby Jack and melt smoothly atop the skillet meal.

→ How can you make this meal spicier?

Try adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a little hot sauce for a spicier kick.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

This dish can be made ahead and reheated. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make delicious sides alongside this hearty skillet supper.