This Depression-era supper was designed to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling meal for the whole family. Using inexpensive ground beef, potatoes, and onions, it delivers big comfort with very little cost. Savory, simple, and deeply familiar—this is the kind of dinner that showed up on the table again and again, and for good reason.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
½ lb ground beef (or any cheap cut, finely chopped)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 cup beef broth or water
1 tablespoon oil or butter
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
Instructions
Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pour in the broth (or water), cover the skillet, and lower the heat.
Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has mostly cooked off.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with dried herbs if using.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Serving Tip
Serve with buttered bread, pickles, or steamed cabbage—just like families did during the Depression years. It’s hearty enough on its own, but simple sides complete the meal beautifully.
Why This Recipe Lasted
Uses cheap, everyday ingredients
One pan, minimal fuel
Filling, comforting, and adaptable
This is survival cooking at its most honest—and still delicious today.