Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely cook meat and potatoes together in the same pan or baking dish. The key is to make sure you choose cuts of meat and potatoes that have similar cooking times and temperatures.
What meat and potatoes go well together?
Here are some popular combinations of meats and potatoes that work well cooked together:
- Chicken thighs and quartered red potatoes
- Pork chops and diced potatoes
- Steak and roasted potato wedges
- Sausage and cubed potatoes
- Meatloaf and mashed potatoes
The trick is to cut the potatoes into smaller pieces so they cook at the same rate as the meat. Lean meats like chicken breast or pork tenderloin will cook faster than fattier cuts like chicken thighs or pork shoulder, so cut the potatoes even smaller for those.
Tips for Cooking Meat and Potatoes Together
Choose cooking methods that work for both
The best cooking methods for cooking meat and potatoes together include:
- Roasting: The dry heat of the oven cooks both evenly.
- Pan frying or searing: Cook meat first, then add potatoes to brown.
- Simmering in a stew or braise: Low moist heat tenderizes both.
- Grilling: Direct heat gives nice charring to both.
Avoid boiling, as this will cause the potatoes to get mushy before the meat is done. Steaming is also not ideal, as the meat may end up undercooked while the potatoes are perfect.
Start the potatoes first
Since potatoes take longer to cook through than most meats, you’ll want to give them a head start. When roasting, add the potatoes to the pan before putting the meat in. When pan searing, brown the meat first, then remove and add the potatoes to the pan to begin cooking before adding the meat back in.
Adjust cooking time and temperature
If the meat is getting done faster than the potatoes, lower the oven temperature or pan heat. You can always put the cooked meat back in later to reheat it with the potatoes. Checking temperatures periodically with a meat thermometer helps you keep things on track.
Use smaller and more tender cuts of meat
Larger, tougher cuts of meat like pork shoulder or beef roasts will take much longer to cook through than potatoes. Stick to quicker cooking meats like chops, chicken pieces, or ground meat for the best results.
Sample Recipes and Cooking Times
Oven Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
- 350°F oven
- 45-60 minutes
Skillet Pork Chops and Potatoes
- Medium heat stovetop
- 15-20 minutes
Braised Beef and Potatoes
- 325°F oven
- 60-90 minutes
Cooking times will vary based on cut sizes and thickness. Use a food thermometer and check potatoes for doneness before serving.
Tips for Additional Flavor
To take your meat and potatoes combo to the next level, consider these easy flavor boosters:
- Toss potatoes with oil, spices, and fresh herbs before roasting.
- Sear meats in an oil with a high smoke point before adding potatoes.
- Deglaze the pan with wine or broth to make a flavorful sauce.
- Infuse oils or butter with garlic, rosemary, or other herbs.
- Brine meats overnight before cooking for added moisture and seasoning.
With the right pairings and cooking methods, you can easily achieve tender, flavorful meat and perfectly cooked potatoes all from one dish!
Conclusion
Cooking meat and potatoes together is simple with the right techniques. Choose compatible cuts that cook in the same time frame. Give potatoes a head start. Use cooking methods that work for both ingredients. Monitor temperatures and cooking times. And add herbs, oil, and other flavor boosters to take the dish to the next level. With a little planning, you can easily whip up delicious meat and potato combos from one pan.