There’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of a hearty skillet meal wafting through your kitchen on a busy weeknight. When I first crafted this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, it was born out of a last-minute decision to use up ingredients I had lying around, and boy, was it a happy accident! This dish features tender Yukon gold potatoes, juicy ground beef, and colorful red bell peppers, all harmoniously melded with zesty green chiles and a spicy blend of Mexican flavors.
In just 35 minutes, you can pull together a comforting meal that’s not only quick and easy but also packed with delightful textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing option for a cozy gathering, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can even swap in your favorite vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or serve it as a filling for tacos. Trust me, it’s a family favorite that will bring joy to your table!
Why is Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet a must-try?
Hearty Comfort: This dish combines the satisfying flavors of juicy beef and creamy potatoes, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Quick and Easy: With just one pan and 35 minutes, you can whip up dinner without the hassle of extensive prep or cleanup.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this flavorful skillet, making it a go-to option for family night.
Versatile Deliciousness: Swap in your favorite veggies or serve it in tacos—it’s like a culinary chameleon that adapts to your tastes!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this savory dish will have your friends and family coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Don’t miss out on this delightful recipe that promises satisfyingly rich flavors and a delightful cooking experience!
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients
• Get ready to savor the flavors!
For the Skillet
- Avocado Oil – Ideal for high-heat cooking; can substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- Potatoes – Yukon gold is best for creamy texture; no peeling necessary, making prep a breeze.
- Lean Ground Beef – Choose 90/10 or leaner to keep the dish hearty without excess grease.
- Diced Yellow Onion – Provides an aromatic base; feel free to use red or white onion if that’s what you have on hand.
- Red Bell Pepper – Brightens up the dish with sweetness; swap for green or yellow bell peppers if you like.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; start with 1-1.5 tsp of salt, adjusting to taste.
- Diced Green Chiles – Adds a mild heat; choose mild for a subtle kick or hot for an extra punch.
- Chili Powder – Provides warmth and depth; the backbone of the rich Mexican flavor profile.
- Ground Cumin – Lends an earthy undertone, making it a key player in this savory dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky flavor; use regular paprika if that’s what you have.
- Cilantro – Fresh and fragrant; omit if cilantro isn’t your thing or sub with dried cilantro.
- Shredded Cheese – Melted on top for creaminess; cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are all wonderful choices.
Consider this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity!
How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
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Heat Oil: In a cast iron skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly.
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Sauté Potatoes: Add diced Yukon gold potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and starting to soften.
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Add Beef: Push the potatoes to one side and add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Crumble and cook until it starts to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
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Mix Vegetables: Stir in 1 diced yellow onion and 1 chopped red bell pepper, seasoning the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are tender—around 4 minutes.
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Season Well: Add in 1 can of diced green chiles, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir everything together, allowing it to cook for another 6-8 minutes until beef is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
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Melt Cheese: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top, covering it, and let it cook briefly until the cheese melts.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot!
Optional: Enjoy with a side of guacamole for an extra creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with this dish! Let your imagination run wild with these delightful twists and substitutions.
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Sweet Potato Swap: Replace Yukon gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich twist. You’ll love the added flavor depth!
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Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both provide a delicious alternative to keep things interesting.
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Veggie Medley: Add in chopped zucchini, corn, or diced carrots to amp up the veggie content, making the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
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Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like crumbled feta or vegan cheese for a unique flavor profile that suits your taste preferences.
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Spicy Kick: Turn up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This adds a fiery punch that spice lovers will appreciate!
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Taco Style: Use this mixture as a filling for tacos. Simply spoon the beef and potato mixture into warm tortillas, top with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!
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Breakfast Burrito: Whip up a breakfast burrito by mixing the skillet filling with scrambled eggs in a tortilla. It’s a perfect brunch option that feels indulgent yet simple!
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Cilantro Twist: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley or even green onions as a garnish. They’ll add freshness without the distinct cilantro taste.
You’ve got options to make this dish uniquely yours—enjoy exploring new flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables (onions, bell peppers) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef ahead of time, cooling it completely before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and sauté the prepped veggies with the potatoes as per the original recipe instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!
Expert Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Uniform Potatoes: Ensure potatoes are cut uniformly for even cooking; smaller pieces can benefit from parboiling to achieve perfect tenderness.
Adjust Seasonings: Don’t shy away from tasting and adjusting seasonings before serving; this is key to elevating the flavors of your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.
Creative Use: Consider repurposing leftovers as a taco filling or breakfast burrito by mixing with scrambled eggs—it’s a delicious twist!
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese types beyond cheddar; Pepper Jack adds a zesty kick, while Monterey Jack offers a milder flavor.
One-Pan Wonder: Embrace the simplicity of making this in one pan, which cuts down on cleanup time—more time to enjoy your meal!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This ensures your flavorful Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet remains fresh and ready to enjoy.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in potatoes, you can freeze portions without potatoes, keeping them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to maintain moisture and flavor.
Meal Prep: This dish is fantastic for meal prep. Simply divide into portions and store in the fridge for easy, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week!
What to Serve with Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
To create a truly delightful dining experience, consider complementing your skillet meal with vibrant sides and refreshing flavors.
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Avocado Corn Salad: This fresh salad bursts with flavor and crunch, providing a cool contrast to the hearty skillet. The creamy avocado pairs well with the spiciness of the dish.
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Southwestern Bean Salad: A combination of black beans, corn, and crunchy bell peppers enhances the southwestern flair while adding protein and fiber for a well-rounded meal.
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Fluffy Rice: Serve your skillet over fluffy cilantro-lime rice to absorb extra flavors, making each bite even more satisfying. It’s a comforting addition that balances the dish perfectly.
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Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: The salty crunch of tortilla chips alongside creamy guacamole will add an extra layer of texture and a delicious dip for those who love snacking before the main meal.
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Cheesy Mexican Street Corn: Offering a burst of sweetness, this dish beautifully complements the savory flavors of your skillet for a fiesta on your plate!
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Chilled Margarita: For adults, a refreshing margarita enhances the meal with its tangy sweetness, making it a fun pairing for a leisurely evening.
Each of these pairing options will round out your meal beautifully, ensuring your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet takes center stage while still enticing the palate with vibrant flavors and textures!
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon gold potatoes are my recommendation because of their creamy texture and delicious flavor. They don’t need peeling, making prep super simple. You can also use russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand, but I find Yukon golds hold up better in this skillet dish.
How long can I store leftovers of the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to keep it fresher for longer!
Can I freeze the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
I generally recommend against freezing this dish with potatoes, as they can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze portions of the beef mixture without potatoes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
What if I don’t have some of the spices?
Very! Spices can be flexible. If you’re missing chili powder or cumin, you can substitute with taco seasoning, which typically includes a blend of similar flavors. Just be mindful to start with smaller amounts and taste as you go for the best results!
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! The Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is incredibly family-friendly. It’s a great way to introduce your kids to bold flavors while keeping it mild enough for picky eaters. Just keep the spicy chiles to a minimum or omit them altogether for younger palates.
Can I use alternative proteins in this skillet?
You bet! Lean ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives for a lighter version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as these may cook quicker than beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try crumbled tempeh or lentils for a vegetarian option.
Savory Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for Family Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a cast iron skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly.
- Add diced Yukon gold potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and starting to soften.
- Push the potatoes to one side and add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Crumble and cook until it starts to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 diced yellow onion and 1 chopped red bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 4 minutes.
- Add in 1 can of diced green chiles, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir and cook for another 6-8 minutes until beef is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and let it cook briefly until the cheese melts.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot!