Hamburger Meat And Potato Hash

Name: Hamburger Meat And Potato Hash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground hamburger meat; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1/2 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

We love preparing Hamburger Meat and Potato Hash on busy mornings when we crave something hearty yet easy to whip up. The savory flavors of the browned beef meld beautifully with the crispy potatoes, creating a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. This dish is a family favorite because it’s versatile; we often toss in leftover vegetables to amp up the nutrition. Whether served for breakfast or dinner, this hash never fails to satisfy our hunger and bring smiles to our table.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:36:42.421Z

I vividly remember the first time I made Hamburger Meat and Potato Hash—it was one of those lazy Sundays where I wanted a filling meal without too much fuss. I started with ground beef and diced potatoes, letting them sizzle together until they were golden and crispy. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible!

Since then, I’ve fine-tuned the recipe by adding various spices and herbs, which elevate the dish even more. One tip I discovered is to let the potatoes cook a bit longer before adding the beef; this ensures they achieve that perfect crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory combination of beef and crispy potatoes
Quick and easy to prepare for any meal
Customizable with leftover vegetables or spices

Perfecting the Potatoes

The potatoes are the foundation of this dish, bringing texture and heartiness. Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold which hold their shape well when cooked. When dicing, aim for uniform pieces, around 1/2 inch each, to ensure even cooking. If your potato pieces are too small, they may become mushy, so resist the urge to rush this step. Cooking them until they’re golden brown not only adds flavor but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender hamburger.

For extra crispiness, you can parboil the diced potatoes for about 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet. Drain them thoroughly, and then sauté them in the olive oil. This technique reduces overall cooking time and ensures a golden exterior while keeping the inside tender. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the potatoes to brown evenly, creating a delightful crust.

Ground Beef Tips

When selecting ground hamburger meat, opting for a blend with 80% lean protein and 20% fat yields the best flavor and moisture. The fat helps keep the meat juicy while cooking, which contributes to the overall richness of the hash. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken; however, be aware that it may require additional seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.

As the hamburger meat browns, make sure to leave it undisturbed for a few minutes before breaking it apart. This technique allows for a nice Maillard reaction, enhancing the meat's flavor by developing a crust. Stir occasionally to avoid burning but aim for a nice caramelized color rather than just an even gray. The golden bits left in the skillet also add depth and richness to the overall dish when combined with the potatoes.

Serving and Storage

This Hamburger Meat and Potato Hash can be easily customized for serving. Top with a fried egg for breakfast or garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. It pairs wonderfully with hot sauce or your favorite salsa for an added kick. If you have leftovers or wish to meal prep, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the hash, allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to two months in the freezer. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground hamburger meat
4 medium potatoes, diced
1/2 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and tender, stirring occasionally.

Brown the Hamburger Meat

Push the potatoes to the side of the skillet and add the remaining olive oil and chopped onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, add the ground hamburger meat to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Mix the potatoes and meat together and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve hot.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of smoked paprika while cooking.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to incorporate various vegetables into your hash to enhance nutrition and add flavor. Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli florets make great additions; just sauté them with the onions before adding the meat. Aim for around 1-2 cups of vegetables to maintain a good balance with the meat and potatoes. You can also adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or smoked paprika for a unique twist.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, this recipe naturally fits that bill. Keep in mind to use certified gluten-free ingredients, particularly in spices and any sauces you may choose to add. Additionally, using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes can give a lovely sweetness and an interesting flavor profile, while still maintaining the heartiness of the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your potatoes are not cooking properly or browning evenly, check the heat level. If it’s too high, they may cook too quickly on the outside while staying raw inside. The ideal medium heat ensures that they brown nicely while becoming tender. If you're short on time and your potatoes are taking too long, you can cover the skillet for a few minutes to steam them lightly before uncovering to achieve that golden finish.

Another common issue is the hamburger meat sticking to the skillet. Using a good-quality nonstick skillet can help, along with ensuring you have enough oil in the pan. If you see any sticking occurring, gently scrape the meat with a spatula before adding the potatoes to prevent burning. Also, breaking the meat apart right after adding it to the skillet helps it cook more evenly, reducing the chances of sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, and use leaner meat or reduce the amount of oil.

→ Can I make this hash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What sides go well with this hash?

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.