If you love dishes that bring comfort, bold flavors, and a touch of home-cooked magic all in one pan, you are going to adore this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a vibrant blend of Mexican spices that create a harmony of flavors with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a meal that feels like a delicious twist on classic comfort food, this skillet recipe has all the elements to satisfy both your taste buds and your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully, each playing a vital role in building the texture, richness, and color of this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe. From the creamy avocado oil that helps crisp the potatoes, to the fresh cilantro that brightens the dish, every item is chosen to make the flavors pop.
- Avocado oil: Its high smoke point makes it perfect for sautéing potatoes until golden and tender.
- Potatoes (1 pound, cubed): They add a hearty texture and soak up all the delicious spices as they cook.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): A great protein base that browns nicely for depth of flavor.
- Diced yellow onion (1/2 cup): They bring sweetness and aromatic layers to the dish.
- Red bell pepper (1, diced): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant red color.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essentials for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Diced green chiles (4 ounces): Bring mild heat and a distinct Southwestern vibe.
- Chili powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): A cornerstone Mexican spice that warms the dish with smoky complexity.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Offers earthiness and depth that complements the beef beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky edge that elevates every bite.
- Chopped cilantro (1/4 cup): Lends fresh, zesty brightness to cut through the richness.
- Shredded cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into gooey perfection, tying all the flavors together deliciously.
How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, swirl the oil so it coats the pan evenly, then lower the heat to medium and add the cubed potatoes. Keep stirring occasionally for about 6 minutes until the potatoes get that beautiful golden crust but remain firm enough to hold their shape. This step is crucial because those tender yet slightly crisp potatoes will be the heart of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Vegetables
Push the potatoes off to one side of the skillet to make room, then add the lean ground beef. Use a spatula to crumble it while cooking. Toss in the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper, seasoning everything with kosher salt and black pepper. Keep cooking and stirring until the beef is mostly browned and the vegetables start softening. This combination builds an irresistible savory foundation full of aroma and texture.
Step 3: Add Spices and Chiles
Now, stir in the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything thoroughly so those delightful Mexican flavors marry wonderfully with the potatoes and beef. Keep cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes until the potatoes are fully tender and the beef is cooked through. This is where the dish really comes alive with color and flavor complexity.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Season to Taste
Taste your skillet to check seasoning and add more salt if needed. Then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Let it melt gently for about a minute before removing the skillet from heat. If you love, garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh pop of green and serve this heavenly Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe hot and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic garnish for this recipe, adding a light herbal brightness that balances the rich, spiced beef and potatoes. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add creaminess and acidity, elevating every mouthful with a zesty contrast.
Side Dishes
This skillet shines as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or warm corn tortillas for scooping. A side of refried beans or Mexican street corn can also complement the flavors and extend the feast for a satisfying, well-rounded dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe right from the pan for a rustic, family-style meal, or plate it beautifully in shallow bowls topped with extra cheese and avocado slices. For a fun twist, use the filling as a taco or burrito base, wrapping it in tortillas for a handheld fiesta favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Your skillet will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an easy, tasty lunch or dinner option to enjoy again.
Freezing
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe freezes quite well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of potatoes may soften slightly upon thawing but the flavor remains fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over medium heat on the stovetop, covered, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, to keep the beef juicy and the potatoes tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness and a lovely color contrast. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they become tender without going mushy.
Is this recipe spicy?
This dish has a mild to moderate spice level, thanks to the diced green chiles and chili powder. You can adjust the heat by using milder or spicier chilies or by reducing the chili powder to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. The spices and vegetables will still create a delicious, hearty skillet meal.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend melt beautifully in this dish. If you prefer a milder cheese, Monterey Jack is a great choice. Use whatever you love to create your perfect gooey finish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
All the ingredients in this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but make sure any chili powder or spice blends you use do not contain gluten additives for a safe gluten-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is the kind of dish that makes weeknight cooking something to look forward to. It’s easy, flavorful, and just downright satisfying with every forkful. I encourage you to give it a try and soon you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again for a quick, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from a friend.
Print
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of classic Mexican spices. Quick to prepare and packed with vibrant ingredients like green chiles, bell pepper, and cilantro, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, hearty dish with a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 pound potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles
- 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, swirl the oil to evenly coat the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and add the cubed potatoes. Stir frequently and cook for about 6 minutes until the potatoes start turning golden and are tender but still firm.
- Brown the beef and sauté vegetables: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally and breaking the beef up, until it is mostly browned.
- Add spices and chiles: Stir in the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors. Continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes until the potatoes are fully tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet mixture and cook for an additional minute until the cheese melts. Optionally garnish with extra cilantro before serving hot.
Notes
- You can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for better texture.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for even cooking.
- Adjust the chili powder to control the heat level.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese or omit it entirely.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
