Easy Greek One-Pot Meal: Flavorful Potato & Minced Beef Skillet with Feta Yogurt Topping
Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup? Look no further! This incredible Greek one-pot meal featuring tender potatoes, savory minced beef, and a vibrant array of vegetables is your answer. It’s a culinary journey to the Mediterranean, packed with robust flavors and the convenience of a single pan. Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef mingling with crispy bacon bits, nestled between layers of soft potatoes and fresh zucchini, all crowned with a refreshing, tangy feta yogurt topping. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises ease and deliciousness. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner!
The Magic of a Greek One-Pot Skillet Meal
As someone who adores flavorful yet fuss-free dinner recipes, this Greek ground beef skillet meal is an absolute winner. It masterfully combines convenience with a delicious twist, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair right to your kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its layered construction: tender potatoes, richly seasoned ground beef, and fresh zucchini are simmered together in a single pan. This stewing process allows all the incredible flavors from the herbs and ingredients to meld and deepen, infusing every layer with an irresistible taste.
What truly elevates this meal to another level is the luscious yogurt feta topping. Its creamy, tangy profile perfectly complements the savory, aromatic layers below, creating a harmonious balance that will delight your palate. Beyond its exceptional taste, the “one-pot” aspect is a dream come true for busy home cooks. Imagine a delectable, wholesome dinner with minimal dirty dishes and a tidy counter – that’s my kind of meal prep! This is why I frequently turn to one-pan dishes like this. If the idea of effortless cooking and amazing flavors appeals to you, be sure to explore more of my one-pan recipes. You’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love, whether it’s pasta pesto with runner beans, a comforting Chicken Biryani, or a delightful orzo with shrimp and zucchini.
Why This Greek Potato and Minced Beef Dish is a Must-Try
This Greek-inspired skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a hearty, balanced meal that simplifies your cooking routine without sacrificing flavor. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your dinner rotation:
- Effortless Preparation: Everything comes together in one pan, drastically cutting down on cleanup time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, Layered Flavors: The slow simmering process allows the aromatic herbs, savory ground beef, and fresh vegetables to develop deep, complex flavors that soak into every bite.
- Wholesome & Balanced: Packed with protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from potatoes, and essential nutrients from zucchini and tomatoes, it’s a complete meal in one go.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The comforting combination of meat and potatoes with a Mediterranean twist is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
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Essential Ingredients for Your Greek Ground Beef Skillet
To embark on this delicious culinary adventure, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. The precise quantities can be found in the printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this blog post. But for now, let’s dive into what makes each component special:
- Potatoes: For the best texture in this one-pot dish, opt for waxy varieties like Red Adirondack, French Fingerling, or Red Bliss. These types hold their shape well during cooking and become wonderfully tender without turning mushy. You’ll cut them into cubes and par-boil them for about 10 minutes before rinsing to ensure they cook evenly within the skillet. Alternatively, for even quicker prep, pre-cooked potato cubes from the store are a fantastic shortcut!
- Bacon: A sprinkle of bacon adds a fantastic salty crispness and a depth of smoky flavor that truly elevates the minced beef. It’s a small but mighty addition! If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, sautéed mushrooms or an extra handful of sun-dried tomatoes can provide a rich, umami depth.
- Zucchini: Don’t underestimate the humble zucchini! This incredibly versatile vegetable adds freshness, a delicate texture, and absorbs the surrounding flavors beautifully. Sliced thin and layered into the dish, it softens perfectly, contributing to the overall succulence of the meal. Beyond this recipe, zucchini can be transformed into boats, fries, or quiches – proof of its culinary adaptability.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, infusing our casserole with an earthy, slightly minty, and subtly floral fragrance. Its robust flavor pairs wonderfully with beef and potatoes. If fresh thyme isn’t available or you prefer a different profile, rosemary is an excellent substitute, offering a more pungent, piney note.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here, giving you full control over the saltiness of the dish. It’s essential for browning the potatoes and adding a rich, creamy base to the initial cooking stages.
- Ground Beef: Also known as minced beef, this ingredient forms the hearty core of our Greek skillet. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it ideal for absorbing the herbs and spices. For variations, feel free to substitute with ground chicken or ground lamb for a slightly different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, a mixture of lentils and finely chopped mushrooms can work wonders.
- Paprika Powder: This spice adds a warm, subtly spicy, and slightly sweet flavor, contributing a crucial umami depth to the sauce and a beautiful color. Smoked paprika can also be used for an even richer, smoky undertone.
- Raisins: The inclusion of raisins might seem unconventional, but they provide a delightful burst of sweet, fruity contrast to the savory elements. They soften and plump up during cooking, offering a pleasant chewiness. To prevent them from burning, it’s best to soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes (or even overnight) and drain them before adding to the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes are more than just a garnish; they burst with intense flavor when roasted or simmered. Their sweetness and acidity brighten the entire dish and, let’s be honest, they’re visually stunning! Choosing the tastiest cherry tomatoes you can find is highly recommended, as they truly define a significant part of this recipe’s fresh taste.
Yogurt-Cheese Topping: The Creamy Crown
- Feta Cheese: This iconic Greek white cheese is non-negotiable for an authentic touch. Its crumbly texture, creamy mouthfeel, and distinctive salty, tangy flavor are the perfect counterpoint to the rich skillet below.
- Greek Yogurt: Opt for thick, creamy Greek yogurt. It provides a cool, refreshing base for the topping, balancing the feta’s saltiness and adding a silky texture. Full-fat Greek yogurt will yield the creamiest results.
How to Prepare This Greek One-Pot Meal: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious Greek one-pot meal is straightforward and enjoyable. Below, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure your skillet turns out perfectly. For a printable version with exact measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by melting half a stick of unsalted butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add your sliced potatoes in batches (about four batches works well to avoid overcrowding). Fry each batch until they are beautifully light golden brown and slightly tender. Remove the cooked potatoes with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate, allowing any excess fat to drain.
- Cook the Meaty Base: In the same pan (no need to clean it!), add the bacon bits. Fry for about one minute until they start to crisp up and render some of their fat. Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spoon and season generously with dried thyme, paprika powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to fry, stirring occasionally, until the ground beef is thoroughly browned and cooked through. Once cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the pre-soaked and drained raisins. The residual heat will plump them up beautifully. Transfer the beef mixture to a bowl, leaving a small amount of residual fat in the pan.
- Layer the Skillet: Now for the assembly! Spoon approximately one-third of the seasoned ground beef mixture onto the bottom of your skillet, creating an even layer. This forms the flavorful foundation.
- Add the First Potato and Beef Layer: Carefully arrange half of the previously fried potato slices over the ground beef layer. Then, top these potatoes with another one-third of the ground beef mixture.
- Introduce the Zucchini: Evenly distribute the thinly sliced zucchini over the second layer of ground beef. For an extra boost of authentic Greek flavor, sprinkle a generous tablespoon of dried oregano over the zucchini slices.
- Final Layers: Place the remaining fried potatoes on top of the zucchini layer. Finish by spreading the last one-third of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Finally, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes generously across the top of the skillet.
- Simmer to Perfection: Securely place the lid on your skillet. Reduce the heat to low and allow the one-pot meal to simmer gently for approximately 20 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld, the vegetables to soften, and the entire dish to become wonderfully cohesive.
- Prepare the Yogurt-Cheese Topping: While the skillet is simmering, prepare your vibrant topping. In a small bowl, crumble the feta cheese. Add the Greek yogurt and mix well until you have a creamy, slightly chunky mixture.
- Serve with Topping: Once the 20 minutes of simmering are up, remove the lid from the pan. Generously spread the prepared yogurt-cheese topping evenly over the entire dish. Serve your Greek one-pot meal immediately, garnished with a light dusting of paprika for color and a hint of extra flavor. Enjoy!
A final sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional paprika can add a beautiful finish.
Tips for Success and Delicious Variations
Achieving the perfect Greek one-pot meal is easy with a few helpful tips and takes on new life with simple variations:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying potatoes or browning meat, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and steams the ingredients instead of browning them, which is essential for flavor.
- Season in Layers: While the recipe provides specific measurements, taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference. Remember, the flavors will deepen as the dish simmers.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: For a delightful meat-free version, replace the ground beef and bacon with sautéed mushrooms (cremini or button work well) and a can of drained brown lentils. Add extra sun-dried tomatoes for an umami punch.
- Protein Swaps: Ground chicken or lamb can be fantastic alternatives to beef. Ground lamb, in particular, lends a very authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced eggplant, bell peppers, or spinach (stirred in during the last few minutes of simmering) for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the paprika will give this dish a subtle spicy warmth.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs like parsley or mint, along with a drizzle of good quality olive oil, can brighten the flavors just before serving.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Greek Skillet
This Greek one-pot meal is incredibly satisfying on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can round out the experience perfectly:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious juices and flavors from the bottom of the pan. Pita bread or a rustic sourdough would be excellent choices.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the skillet.
- Olives: A small bowl of Kalamata olives on the side adds another authentic Greek touch and a briny flavor that complements the dish.
- Extra Feta: For cheese lovers, a little extra crumbled feta on the side is always a welcome addition.
Did you make this delicious recipe? Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I love to see what your creation looks like and regularly share the most beautiful photos of you! Did you like this recipe? Then leave a rating on the recipe card! Your feedback helps other home cooks and me enormously.
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Recipe Card: Greek One-Pot Meal with Potato and Minced Beef
📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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Colander
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slotted spoon
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One pot skillet
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sliced potatoes, or 2 ½ pounds unpeeled potatoes, pre-boiled for 10 minutes.
- ½ stick butter, unsalted
- 4 oz. bacon bits
- ½ pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika powder, grounded
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons raisins
- 1 zucchini, sliced about ½ inch (1 cm) thick
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- â…” cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz. feta cheese
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a pan, fry the potato slices in four batches until golden brown, and remove them with a slotted spoon.2 pounds sliced potatoes, ½ stick butter
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Spoon the bacon into the pan, stir-fry for about 1 minute, then add the minced beef, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Fry well until the mince is done.4 oz. bacon bits, ½ pound ground beef, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon paprika powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
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Put the ground beef in a bowl and mix in the raisins.3 tablespoons raisins
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Put â…“ of the meat at the bottom of a deep skillet (with lid).
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Cover with half of the potatoes and then â…“ of the ground beef.
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On top of the ground beef, divide the slices of zucchini.1 zucchini
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Sprinkle with oregano for even more flavor.1 tablespoon dried oregano
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Then layer with the rest of the potatoes and top it off with the minced beef.
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Scatter the cherry tomatoes on top and put the lid on the pan.â…” cup cherry tomatoes
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Let the pot simmer for 20 minutes.
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Meanwhile: Put the feta cheese in a bowl and mix it with the yogurt.4 oz. feta cheese, ½ cup Greek yogurt
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Remove the lid from the pan and pour the yogurt-cheese mixture on top.
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Serve.
Notes
2. Bacon – You can also replace them with fried mushrooms or extra sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian recipe.
3. Thyme – You can also replace thyme with rosemary.
4. Ground beef – Ground beef (minced beef) has a lot of flavor and fits well in this oven dish. But you can also opt for chicken or minced lamb.
5. Raisins – Let them soak overnight, or soak them for 15 minutes in hot water and drain. That way, they won’t burn.
6. Storage
Let this Greek One pot meal cool down quickly before storing it.
- Refrigerator – The skillet can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezer – This Greek potato dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Pack in a sealed freezer box or wrap in two layers of foil. Let thaw in the refrigerator.
- Reheat – You can do this in the same pan over medium heat. Or you scoop it into a baking dish and heat it in the oven. About 30 minutes at 350 °F (180 °C).
7. The nutritional value is per serving, assuming the potato and minced beef meal is eaten by four people.
Nutrition
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