One-Skillet Hamburger Hash for Busy Weeknight Dinners

Turn dinner time into a flavor fiesta with Hamburger Hash, a savory dish that’s simple, filling, and packed with all your favorite tastes. This comforting one-skillet meal brings together perfectly browned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of fresh vegetables cooked to perfection. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or craving a no-fuss dinner, Hamburger Hash offers a delicious, hearty option that satisfies the whole family while keeping cleanup quick and easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-skillet convenience: Everything cooks in one pan, saving time on both cooking and cleanup.
• Family-friendly flavors: Simple ingredients combined for a comforting taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Nutritious and balanced: Protein, veggies, and carbs all in one satisfying dish.
• Customizable ingredients: Easily adjust to suit tastes, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge.
• Quick weeknight solution: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect when time is tight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Hamburger Hash plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. Simple, fresh, and easy to find, these essentials combine to create a deeply satisfying meal you’ll want on repeat.

• Ground beef: Choose lean for less grease or a bit fattier for richer flavor, the star protein of the dish.
• Potatoes: Diced for a soft, tender texture that soaks up all the savory goodness.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized in the skillet.
• Bell peppers: Provide a pop of color and a mild crunch, balancing the richness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the hash with aromatic warmth.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme contribute a lively but familiar flavor profile.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing and building a golden crust on potatoes and beef.

Variations for Hamburger Hash

Feel free to make this Hamburger Hash your own. With such a flexible base, you can swap or add ingredients to suit preferences, dietary goals, or simply what’s available.

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Cheesy upgrade: Stir in shredded cheddar or sprinkle mozzarella on top before serving.
• Veggie boost: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
• Swap the beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option.
• Herb twist: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil can add bright freshness right before serving.

How to Make Hamburger Hash

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Wash and dice your potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. Chop the onions, bell peppers, and mince the garlic so they’re ready to go once the skillet is hot.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

Push the beef to one side of the skillet, then add diced potatoes, onions, and peppers to the empty side. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes start to soften and onions become translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Add garlic in the last minute to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combine and season

Mix everything together in the skillet. Sprinkle smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly. Stir well and continue cooking until potatoes are tender and nicely browned, about 5 more minutes.

Step 5: Final touches

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat, and if you desire, add any fresh herbs or cheese on top before serving warm.

Pro Tips for Making Hamburger Hash

• Even potato pieces: Cut potatoes into uniform cubes so they cook evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, ingredients will steam rather than fry, losing that lovely texture.
• Use medium heat: This balance allows the beef and veggies to brown without burning.
• Let it rest: Allow the hash to sit a couple of minutes off the heat to let flavors meld perfectly.
• Fresh herbs at the end: Add delicate herbs right before serving to keep their vibrant flavor and color.

How to Serve Hamburger Hash

Garnishes

Top your Hamburger Hash with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of freshly chopped parsley to add color and an extra burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to keep things light, though crusty bread on the side is a fantastic way to soak up every last bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Hamburger Hash topped with a fried egg, turning it into a hearty breakfast-for-dinner option, or present it in individual cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Hamburger Hash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor well and remains reheatable without losing texture.

Freezing

Hamburger Hash freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally for even warming, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the meat and potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can replace ground beef easily. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Hamburger Hash is naturally gluten-free when made with fresh ingredients and no added sauces containing gluten.

How can I make Hamburger Hash spicier?

Add fresh chilies, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle cayenne pepper during cooking to increase the heat level.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based ground crumbles and swap butter for oil, and add extra vegetables to keep it hearty and delicious.

What’s the best potato type to use?

Yukon gold or red potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well while becoming tender and crisp in the skillet.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Hash is such a rewarding and cozy dish that brings ease and comfort to busy weeknights. Its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and delightful balance of flavors make it one of those versatile meals you’ll find yourself loving again and again. Give it a try and turn your next dinner into a deliciously satisfying experience!

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