Hamburger Hash Easy Skillet Meal

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Hamburger hash brings together ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and diced potatoes in a single skillet for a comforting, satisfying meal. Brown the beef with the vegetables, then add potatoes and seasonings before finishing with beef broth. Let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. To finish, sprinkle Colby Jack cheese over the top and let it melt before serving. Cutting potatoes into uniform pieces helps them cook evenly, and this hearty dish guarantees a family-pleasing dinner that comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 07 Jun 2025 22:19:25 GMT
A close up of a hamburger hash. Save
A close up of a hamburger hash. | lilicooks.com

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
A close up of a hamburger hash. Save
A close up of a hamburger hash. | lilicooks.com

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

A close up of a hamburger hash with various vegetables. Save
A close up of a hamburger hash with various vegetables. | lilicooks.com

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.

Hamburger Hash One Pot Dinner

Hearty skillet of ground beef, potatoes, and peppers for a flavorful all-in-one weekday dinner.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
25 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 pound ground beef
02 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
03 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
04 1/2 cup onion, diced
05 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
06 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 1/2 teaspoon paprika
09 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 1 teaspoon salt
11 1/2 teaspoon pepper
12 1/2 cup beef stock or beef broth
13 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, add the ground beef, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are starting to soften, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 02

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Drizzle with oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 03

Pour in the beef broth and stir. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 04

Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the hash. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

Tips

  1. To ensure your potatoes cook evenly and quickly, cut them into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate as the other ingredients and prevents any undercooked or overcooked potatoes in your hash.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 373
  • Fats: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 21 g