If you’re craving a comforting, full-flavored dish that comes together quickly and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It balances hearty ground beef with tender potatoes and sweet peas in a fragrant curry sauce that’s alive with garlic, ginger, and warming spices. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends with something a little different, this recipe offers vibrant colors, textures, and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, these ingredients are what make the Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe sing with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the warming spices to the creamy potatoes and bright green peas.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic base that wakes up every bite.
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger: Brings a zesty freshness and subtle heat.
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil: Helps toast the spices and cook the beef without sticking.
- 1 Tbsp curry powder: The heart of the curry flavor, blending warmth and complexity.
- 1 tsp turmeric: Gives the dish a beautiful golden hue and earthy undertones.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like it spicy.
- 1 lb. ground beef (15% fat or less): Provides the rich, meaty base perfect for soaking up the spices.
- 1 russet potato (¾ lb.): Cubed to bring soft, creamy bites that contrast the beef.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that helps tenderize the potatoes.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a sweet freshness to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional): For a vibrant, fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Aromatics and Spices
Start by adding minced garlic, grated ginger, and cooking oil to a large deep skillet over medium heat. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant – this base is crucial for layering flavor. Then sprinkle in curry powder, turmeric, and crushed red pepper; let these toast for an additional minute to unlock their full aroma and deepen the dish’s character.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef directly into the skillet with the toasted spices. Break it up with a spoon and cook thoroughly until browned and no pink remains. This step allows the meat to absorb the spice-infused oil while developing a rich, savory flavor that’s the bedrock of your dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef cooks, peel your russet potato and chop it into ½-inch cubes. This size ensures they’ll cook evenly and absorb the savory broth throughout the simmer.
Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Broth, Bring to a Boil
Stir the cubed potatoes and beef broth into the skillet with the cooked beef. Mix everything well to coat the potatoes in those lovely spices. Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high until the broth boils, which signals the start of tenderizing the potatoes and melding flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and keep the lid on so the potatoes can cook gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the potatoes feel soft when poked with a fork, remove the lid and continue simmering for a few minutes so the broth reduces slightly, intensifying the sauce.
Step 6: Stir in Peas and Season to Taste
Finally, fold frozen peas into the skillet. Allow them to warm through, which takes just a few minutes and adds a fresh sweetness and vibrant green color. Taste your curry ground beef mixture and add salt as needed (about ½ teaspoon). Garnish with sliced green onions if you like, and get ready to serve!
How to Serve Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling sliced green onions on top of this dish adds a lovely burst of freshness and subtle crunch. You can also consider a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors and balance the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
This curried ground beef pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the saucy goodness. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or some roasted vegetables to add texture contrast and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Take this dish to the next level by serving it in small bowls with a spoonful of chutney on the side. You could also transform it into a filling for stuffed peppers or pita pockets, offering a fun and portable way to enjoy the rich flavors of the Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually develop even more after resting, making it perfect for next-day meals that still taste wonderfully fresh and comforting.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a great option to prepare in advance. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensuring the potatoes don’t lose their texture. You can also microwave leftovers covered, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Warm it until heated through, and enjoy as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic here, you can swap in ground lamb, turkey, or chicken. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile but will work well with the curry spices and potatoes.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe has a mild heat level, especially if you omit or reduce crushed red pepper. The curry powder and turmeric provide warm, earthy flavor without overwhelming spice unless you choose to add some kick.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You’ll still get the lovely curry flavors and satisfying textures from the potatoes and peas.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
After simmering for 10 minutes, test potatoes with a fork or knife—it should slide in easily without resistance. If the potatoes need more time, continue simmering while checking every few minutes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! It reheats beautifully and can be made a day ahead. Just keep it warm before serving and consider fresh garnishes like green onions or yogurt to keep it vibrant.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those satisfying dishes that’s full of warmth and comfort but with a bright, exciting flavor twist. Perfect for family meals or impressing friends, this recipe is simple enough for any day but special enough to savor. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite!
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Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Curried Ground Beef with Peas and Potatoes recipe is a flavorful and hearty one-pan dish combining aromatic spices with tender ground beef, soft potatoes, and sweet peas. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, featuring classic curry powder and turmeric sautéed with garlic and ginger, then simmered to perfection. Ready in just 35 minutes, it serves six and makes for an easy, comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Spices and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 lb ground beef (15% fat or less)
- 1 russet potato (¾ lb.), peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, then sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (if using). Continue to sauté for 1 more minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through with no pink remaining.
- Prepare Potatoes: While the beef cooks, peel the russet potato and cut it into ½-inch cubes.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: To the cooked beef mixture, add the cubed potatoes and 1 cup of beef broth. Stir to evenly distribute ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid and increase heat to medium-high.
- Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender: Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes with the lid on, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce Broth: Remove the lid and continue simmering for a few more minutes until most of the broth has evaporated and the potatoes are tender.
- Add Peas and Season: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and heat through for a couple of minutes. Taste the curry and add about 1/2 teaspoon salt or to preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle sliced green onions on top if desired, and serve the curried ground beef hot.
Notes
- Use ground beef with 15% fat or less to keep the dish flavorful but not overly greasy.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper amount according to your heat preference or omit for milder flavor.
- If beef broth is unavailable, you can substitute with water and a beef bouillon cube for richness.
- For a quicker cook time, cut potatoes smaller, but keep them about ½ inch for the best texture.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat on stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
