Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: 5 Cozy Comforts

Let me tell you, there’s something utterly comforting about a big, bubbling Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth after a long day and fills your home with the most incredible aromas. I remember the first time I made this for my family; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted a meal that would not only satisfy our hunger but also make us feel cozy and loved. As I stirred the skillet, the vibrant colors of the peppers and potatoes caught my eye, and the spices began to dance around the kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water.

This dish is packed with flavors that just shout comfort, from the savory ground beef to the tender potatoes. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen. And the best part? You can easily tweak it to fit your family’s taste! So, grab your skillet and let’s dive into this delightful, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your delicious Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. I always recommend gathering all your ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil – for that perfect sizzle and flavor
• 1 pound potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes – I love using Yukon Gold for their creaminess!
• 1 pound lean ground beef – make sure it’s good quality for maximum flavor
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion – adds a sweet, aromatic base
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – for a pop of color and sweetness
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt) – seasoning is key!
• 4 ounces diced green chiles – these bring that signature kick!
• 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder – feel free to adjust if you like it spicier
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – for that earthy depth
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a lovely smokiness
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped – fresh herbs make everything better!
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese – I recommend cheddar or Monterey Jack for melting goodness

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Now, let’s get cooking! This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet comes together in a series of simple steps that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Just follow along, and you’ll be savoring this delicious dish in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Oil

First things first, grab your trusty skillet! Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Swirl it around to coat the bottom; this ensures your potatoes won’t stick and will get that lovely golden color. Once it’s shimmering (you’ll know it’s ready!), reduce the heat to medium to keep the oil hot but not smoking.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next up, toss in your 1 pound of cubed potatoes. I like to give them a good stir every now and then to ensure they’re cooking evenly. Let them sizzle for about 6 minutes until they’re golden and just starting to soften. You want them to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them!

Step 3: Add Ground Beef and Vegetables

Once those potatoes are looking fantastic, push them to one side of the skillet. Now it’s time to add the star of the show: 1 pound of lean ground beef! Crumble it in, then add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sprinkle with about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the veggies are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Chiles and Spices

Now, let’s amp up the flavor! Add in the 4 ounces of diced green chiles, 2.5 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Toss in the 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro as well. Stir it all together and let it cook for another 6-8 minutes until the potatoes are tender and everything is well combined. You’ll love how the spices start to meld together!

Step 5: Final Touches

Before serving, give everything a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little extra salt? Now, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top and cook for another minute until it’s all gooey and melty. For the final flourish, garnish with a bit more cilantro if you’d like. And voila! You’re ready to dig into a warm, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings so many benefits to the table. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making this dish:

• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, this skillet dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast!
• Hearty Flavor: The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables creates a rich tapestry of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze! Less mess equals more time spent enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the potatoes and peppers, this dish keeps you feeling full and fueled without the guilt.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to match your family’s taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation! Enjoy the flavors and the joy it brings to your table.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet turns out absolutely perfect every single time, I’ve got some pro tips to share! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to new heights.

Choose the Right Potatoes

For the best texture, I always recommend using Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape beautifully during cooking and offer a delightful creaminess. Avoid using russet potatoes, as they can become too fluffy and mealy in this dish.

Don’t Rush the Cooking Process

Patience is key! When cooking the potatoes, give them enough time to achieve that golden-brown color. This caramelization adds so much flavor. If you rush, you might end up with bland, undercooked potatoes. So, let them sizzle!

Use Fresh Spices

Fresh spices make a world of difference! If your chili powder or cumin has been sitting in the pantry for ages, consider getting new ones. Fresh spices have a vibrant flavor that will enhance your dish and make it pop!

Season as You Go

Don’t wait until the end to season! Adding salt and pepper during different stages of cooking helps build layers of flavor. A little pinch while cooking the potatoes, another sprinkle when you add the beef, and so on will ensure everything is well-seasoned.

Mix and Match Toppings

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! While cheese is a must for that melty goodness, you can also add avocado slices, sour cream, or even a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. It’s all about making it your own!

Leftovers are Your Friend

If you happen to have leftovers (which I highly doubt, but just in case!), this skillet dish reheats beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet that’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

Variations

One of the best things about the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is its flexibility! You can easily customize this dish to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

Different Protein Options

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. They’re both lighter options that still pack a protein punch!
• Chorizo: For a flavor explosion, try using chorizo instead of ground beef. The spices in chorizo will elevate the dish and give it a delightful kick.
• Plant-Based Crumbles: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a hearty, meat-free meal.

Vegetable Swaps

• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist. They add a lovely sweetness that complements the spices beautifully!
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: If you’re short on fresh produce, frozen mixed veggies like corn, peas, and carrots can be a great addition—just stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spinach or Kale: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost and a pop of color.

Spice It Up

• Different Chili Powders: Experiment with different types of chili powder, like chipotle or ancho, to add unique flavors. They can bring a smoky or fruity element to the dish!
• Hot Sauce: If you like heat, drizzle a bit of your favorite hot sauce over the top before serving for an extra kick!
• Herbs: Instead of cilantro, try adding fresh parsley or even a bit of fresh basil for a different herbaceous note.

With these variations, you can keep this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet exciting and new every time you make it. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal, knowing the nutritional content can be helpful, but keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I strive to provide a good estimate, it’s not set in stone! Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional data for one serving of the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

• Calories: 375
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 306mg
• Cholesterol: 81mg

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delightful flavors of this hearty skillet dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this scrumptious Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet and have some leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stores beautifully, and I’ve got some tips to ensure it stays just as tasty for your next meal.

To store your leftovers, let the skillet cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture build-up, which can make the potatoes soggy. I usually portion it out into smaller containers, so I can easily grab a single serving when I need a quick meal.

Pop the container in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date so you don’t forget about it lurking in the back of the freezer!

When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best texture, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop. Just place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. This way, the potatoes won’t get mushy, and the flavors will come back to life!

If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it as well. Just transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Give it a stir in between to ensure even heating.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet even after the first serving! Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet? No worries! I’ve gathered some of the most common questions along with my trusty answers to help you out.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While I love Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess, you can use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may alter the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them as they cook!

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients used here, from the ground beef to the spices, are gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged ingredients like chili powder to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten-containing products.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re a fan of heat, there are several ways to spice things up! You can increase the amount of chili powder, add some diced jalapeños, or drizzle your favorite hot sauce on top just before serving. Feel free to adjust according to your heat tolerance!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance, chopping the veggies and measuring out the spices. Just store everything in separate containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, it’ll come together quickly! You can also make the entire dish ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side of warm tortillas, avocado slices, or a fresh green salad. You could also pair it with some Mexican rice or refried beans for a heartier feast!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Hopefully, these FAQs help you navigate your cooking adventure with the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need tips—happy cooking!

Print