Hamburger Hash One Pot Dinner

If you want a rib-sticking dinner that cooks up fast and tastes like pure comfort, you have to try this Hamburger Hash. It is the kind of recipe I rely on when life gets busy but my family still wants a hearty meal. You only need a handful of everyday ingredients and it all comes together in one pan – less cleanup and big flavor. Every bite is filled with savory beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese. There is a reason my crew asks for this meal on repeat during the colder months.

When I tried this for a quick supper one night, I was surprised how much everyone loved it – now it is my secret weapon when I need dinner on the table fast.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings a rich and savory base to the hash Choose fresh beef with a bright red color for best flavor
• Red and green bell peppers: offer sweetness and color Firm peppers feel heavy for their size
• Onion: adds a mild bite and depth Use yellow onion for a classic flavor
• Potatoes: give body and soak up all those flavors Yukon gold are creamy and hold their shape well
• Olive oil: helps everything brown evenly Use extra-virgin for the best taste
• Garlic powder: brings warmth and convenient flavor Make sure yours smells fresh
• Paprika: gives a gentle smokiness Look for deep-red color
• Italian seasoning: provides herby notes A well-mixed blend wakes up the whole skillet
• Salt and pepper: are essential for bringing everything together Use kosher salt for even seasoning
• Beef stock: keeps everything moist and adds a meaty boost Opt for low sodium if you want to control the saltiness
• Colby Jack cheese: finishes with gooey melt and creamy flavor Shred your own cheese for the finest melt and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Veggies:

In a large skillet set over medium heat add the ground beef bell peppers and onion Break up the beef with a spoon and cook until the beef is browned and the veggies soften This usually takes eight to ten minutes and gives the dish the heartiest flavor base

Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:

Toss in the diced potatoes Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle everything with garlic powder paprika Italian seasoning salt and black pepper Stir so the potatoes get coated with all the seasonings Chopping your potatoes in small even cubes is key for cooking evenly

Simmer with Broth:

Pour in the beef stock and give everything another good stir Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for fifteen to twenty minutes Stir a few times to prevent sticking You want the potatoes to be fork-tender and the liquid mostly soaked up

Finish with Cheese:

Top the hash evenly with the shredded Colby Jack cheese Cover again and let everything sit a few minutes so the cheese melts right into the beef and potatoes Lift off the lid to find melty bubbly perfection

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Colby Jack is hands down my favorite part That creamy pull when you scoop out a serving feels like pure comfort I remember making this for my kids after a snowy afternoon and we laughed around the table with extra helpings all around

Storage Tips

Let your hash cool completely before storing Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to four days You can also freeze portions for up to two months Reheat on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of beef broth to loosen things up

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of Colby Jack try cheddar Monterey Jack or even mozzarella Use whatever potatoes you have on hand as long as they are diced small For a twist add ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sneak in chopped zucchini or mushrooms for more veggies

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Serving Suggestions

Hamburger Hash is a meal by itself but sometimes I serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans Crusty bread is great for soaking up those cheesy bits and I have even used the leftovers in a breakfast burrito the next morning

Cultural Notes

This dish is a classic example of American skillet cooking where one-pan meals became popular for quick weeknight suppers Hamburger Hash takes pantry basics and turns them into something hearty and satisfying It has that comforting taste that feels like home

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Colby Jack adds a creamy melt, cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work well.

→ What are the best potatoes for this dish?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes offer the right balance of tenderness and structure, but any sturdy variety will do.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place cooled hash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, corn, peas, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. For a rustic texture, leave the skin on—just scrub them thoroughly before dicing.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

Yes, cool completely before freezing. For best texture, freeze in portions and reheat in a skillet.