Savory Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Delight

Published: January 29, 2026

by Clare

Why love this instant pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Savory, Comforting Flavors: Enjoy a harmony of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheddar, creating a dish that’s irresistibly delicious.

Versatile and Adaptable: Feel free to customize with herbs, spices, or your favorite toppings—whether you prefer sriracha for heat or sour cream for creaminess, the options are endless!

Minimal Clean-Up: One pot means one clean-up, giving you more time to relish your meal or relax with family.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is a hit among both kids and adults alike, ensuring a satisfied table every time it’s served. For more tasty ingredients or ideas, check out my recipe for Savory Ground Skillet.

Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet
• Olive Oil – A fat base to sauté ingredients; vegetable oil can be used for a neutral flavor.
• Lean Ground Beef – The star protein that brings richness; swap for turkey or plant-based meat if desired.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors; if using table salt, reduce the amount due to its higher saltiness.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch, but adjust to taste.
• Yellow Onion (finely diced) – Adds sweetness and texture; shallots or sweet onions work well too.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky flavor; if you prefer less smokiness, sweet paprika is a fine alternative.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth; for convenience, pre-ground can be used but fresh is best for flavor.
• Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes (chopped into ½ inch cubes) – Essential for heartiness; Yukon Golds cook faster.
• Water – Used for steaming potatoes; for added flavor, consider using beef broth instead.
• Yellow Mustard – Introduces tanginess; omit or switch to Dijon for a different flavor profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Brings an umami kick; soy sauce can serve as a substitute.
• Ketchup – Sweetens and balances; you can use tomato sauce and sugar for a similar taste.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated) – Provides a creamy finish; try dairy-free cheese for a non-dairy option.

For Toppings (optional)
• Green Onions – Give a fresh crunch; chopped chives can be an alternative.
• Hot Sauce – Adds a delightful kick; choose your favorite heat level for customizing spice.
• Sour Cream – Creaminess that complements the dish; consider Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

This Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet dish is all about bringing comfort and flavor to your dinner table with ease!

How to Make Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Sauté Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, set it to the sauté function and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion is translucent (about 3 minutes). Then, add the lean ground beef, seasoning it with kosher salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it apart (5-7 minutes).
Add Potatoes: Once the beef is fully cooked, add chopped Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes to the pot. This hearty addition ensures that your dish is satisfying and delicious.
Pour in Water: Add ½ cup of water to the pot. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to use beef broth instead. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the flavors together.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This quick cooking time will ensure that the potatoes are tender and infused with flavor from the meat.
Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Carefully open the lid.
Mix in Sauces: Stir in the yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, ensuring everything is well combined. Adjust the moisture by adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese into the mixture, stirring until melted and creamy. Top with the remaining cheese and let it rest for a couple of minutes until everything is combined beautifully.
Serve Warm: Dish out your Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet onto plates, adding your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream for that creamy touch.

Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil for extra flavor and richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Feel free to play around with these ideas and create your ultimate comfort dish!

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder for an exciting heat level that will tingle your taste buds. Spice lovers will relish the extra warmth!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the lean ground beef for plant-based ground meat or lentils, keeping it hearty yet meat-free. This twist is not only delicious but also super satisfying.
Creamy Ranch Addition: Incorporate a packet of ranch dressing mix into the dish for a creamy, herby flavor boost. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the overall taste while providing a different twist!
Seasonal Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers during the sautéing process for an added layer of color, nutrition, and crunch. These vibrant vegetables will brighten your skillet!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving to elevate the flavor profile. The aroma of fresh herbs will surely make your kitchen irresistible!
Cheesy Alternatives: Opt for a different cheese like pepper jack for some flavorful heat or mozzarella for a milder, gooey finish that melts beautifully.
Cremier Texture: For an ultra-creamy consistency, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before serving. This addition will create a luscious, velvety sauce.
Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors significantly. This little touch adds a refreshing zing that takes the dish to another level!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• Uniform Potato Cuts: Make sure to chop the potatoes into uniform ½ inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and achieve the perfect tender texture.

• Water Measurement: Don’t skip the water! It’s crucial for steaming the potatoes. Always add just enough to prevent sticking, but not so much that it dilutes the flavors.

• Adjust for Spice: Want some heat? Try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder to the ground beef as it cooks, enhancing your instant pot ground beef and potatoes skillet.

• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing a natural pressure release for a few minutes after cooking can help keep potatoes from becoming mushy, maintaining their deliciousness.

• Topping Variations: Mix and match your toppings! Fresh herbs or avocado can elevate the dish, while cheese can be added on top right before serving for meltier goodness.

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot ground beef and potatoes skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Divide into smaller portions to easily thaw as needed.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Thawing: To thaw frozen portions, transfer to the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting for quicker results.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

Elevate your meal with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the savory goodness of this one-pan wonder.

Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette brings balance to the hearty skillet.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side adds a fresh crunch and is an easy way to boost your vegetable intake.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness that remains on your plate.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly cooked spinach adds a nutritious element and pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and potatoes.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn enhances your meal’s flavor profile and gives a delightful bite between spoonfuls.
Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory skillet, enticing your palate.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the savory depth of the dish, making for a comforting evening.
Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of classic cheesecake adds a luscious finish to your dinner, rounding out the meal with sweetness.
Apple Crisp: Warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect comforting dessert to cap off your savory experience.

Make Ahead Options

This Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is ideal for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can cook the ground beef and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. To prepare, sauté the beef and onions as instructed, then let cool before transferring to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to finish the dish. When it’s time to serve, simply add the cooked mixture back to the Instant Pot, stir in the sauces, and pressure cook for about 8 minutes to heat everything through. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors of the skillet without the hassle on a busy evening!

Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for the Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
I recommend using lean ground beef for this recipe to keep it flavorful yet not overly greasy. However, you can substitute it with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer a lighter option. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly for food safety.

How should I store leftovers of the Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
Absolutely! Allow your leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can last for up to 3 days. Just remember not to reheat too many times to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Divide it into freezer-safe portions and store for up to 3 months. To thaw, you can transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist and stir occasionally.

What if my potatoes are still hard after pressure cooking?
If you find your potatoes aren’t tender after the initial cooking, don’t worry! Simply close the lid back and cook on high pressure for an additional 2-3 minutes. Quick-release the pressure again and check the tenderness. Remember, uniform cutting helps achieve even cooking!

Are there any dietary considerations for the Instant Pot Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
Certainly! This dish is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and suitable for nut-free diets. If you’re serving it to kids or individuals with allergies, always double-check your ingredient labels—the more the merrier with shared meals!