Indian Keema Aloo (Ground Beef and Potatoes) Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, few dishes compare to Keema Aloo. This classic Indian dish combines ground beef (keema) with tender potatoes (aloo), simmered in a fragrant blend of spices that infuse every bite with warmth. It’s a recipe beloved across India, Pakistan, and many South Asian households around the world, often served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread.

Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or already familiar with its bold spices, this dish is approachable, easy to prepare, and sure to win over your family’s taste buds. In this recipe, we’ll dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, serving suggestions, and helpful tips so you can master this authentic and satisfying dish in your own kitchen.

What is Keema Aloo?

Keema Aloo is a traditional South Asian curry made with ground meat (commonly beef, lamb, or goat) cooked alongside potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. The term keema translates to “minced meat,” while aloo means “potato.”

This dish is popular because of its versatility. The potatoes absorb all the flavors of the spiced meat, resulting in a perfectly balanced curry that’s rich, aromatic, and wholesome. It can be served mild or fiery depending on your spice tolerance, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting & Hearty: The combination of meat and potatoes creates a filling dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Easy to Make: Minimal preparation with ingredients you can find in most grocery stores.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels, swap the protein (try chicken or turkey), or add peas and carrots for variation.
Meal Prep Friendly: This curry stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for weekly meal planning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare authentic Indian Keema Aloo at home:

Ground Beef (500g / 1 lb) – Lean ground beef works best for a balanced texture. You can also substitute with lamb, chicken, or turkey.
Potatoes (2 medium) – Peeled and diced into small cubes; they absorb the curry flavors beautifully.
Onion (1 large) – Finely chopped to create the base of the curry.
Tomatoes (2 medium or 1 cup canned) – Fresh or canned tomatoes add depth and acidity.
Garlic (4 cloves) – Crushed or finely minced.
Ginger (1 tablespoon) – Freshly grated for authentic flavor.
Green Chili (1, optional) – For a bit of heat.
Cooking Oil (3 tablespoons) – Neutral oils like sunflower, vegetable, or canola.
Spices:
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt (to taste)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons garam masala
2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup) – Chopped for garnish.
Water or Broth (1 cup) – To help cook the potatoes and create a rich curry sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base

Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle until aromatic.
Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown (about 7 minutes).
Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili, cooking for another 1–2 minutes.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned.
Allow any liquid released from the meat to evaporate so the flavors intensify.

3. Add Spices

Sprinkle in ground coriander, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, chili powder, and paprika.
Stir well so the spices coat the meat evenly, toasting them lightly for maximum flavor.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes

Add chopped or canned tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes break down and blend into the mixture, creating a rich masala base.

5. Add Potatoes & Simmer

Stir in diced potatoes and mix thoroughly.
Pour in 1 cup of water or broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender.

6. Adjust & Garnish

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, taste and adjust the salt or spice levels as needed.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Keema Aloo is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of sides:

Basmati Rice – The fluffiness of long-grain rice soaks up the flavorful curry sauce.
Naan or Roti – Use soft flatbreads to scoop up every last bit.
Jeera Rice – Fragrant cumin rice makes the perfect companion.
Side Salad – A cucumber and yogurt salad balances the heat and adds freshness.

For a complete Indian-style dinner, serve with pickles (achar) and cooling raita.

Tips for the Perfect Keema Aloo

Toast the Spices – Lightly toasting spices in oil releases their full flavor.
Don’t Rush the Onions – Caramelized onions create the base of this curry, so let them cook until golden brown.
Control the Heat – Adjust chili powder or omit the green chili if you prefer a milder dish.
Make It Healthier – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add Veggies – Peas, carrots, or bell peppers can be added for color and extra nutrition.
Meal Prep Friendly – This curry tastes even better the next day, so make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave until hot.

Nutritional Benefits

Keema Aloo isn’t just tasty—it’s also nourishing:

Protein: Ground beef provides high-quality protein for muscle repair and energy.
Fiber: Potatoes and onions add fiber, aiding digestion.
Vitamins & Minerals: Spices like turmeric and cumin are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

This makes it a wholesome option for families who want a filling yet nutritious meal.

Final Thoughts

Indian Keema Aloo is the kind of dish that brings warmth to the table. With its tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and robust spice profile, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or cooking for guests, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that embodies the essence of Indian home cooking.

So, grab your skillet, gather those spices, and give this recipe a try. Once you do, you’ll likely find it becoming a regular part of your meal rotation—a dish that’s both humble and full of flavor.

Indian Keema Aloo – Ground Beef and Potatoes –