Jump to Recipe Print RecipeEvery time I whip up this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, I’m reminded of the warmth and joy that comes from cooking a comforting meal in just one pan. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, creamy potatoes mingling with savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a sprinkle of Mexican spices, all while gooey cheese melts into a delightful, hearty dish. This quick weeknight wonder is not only family-friendly but also a fantastic option for meal prepping—making busy evenings a breeze. Plus, it’s gluten-free, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy. Have you ever found a recipe that feels like a delicious hug in a bowl? Let’s dive into this tasty journey! Why is this skillet dinner a must-try? Simplicity at its Finest: This one-pan wonder means less mess and more time for family, making weeknight cooking a breeze. Bold, Flavorful Experience: Savory ground beef paired with creamy potatoes and vibrant bell peppers creates a dish bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors. Crowd-Pleaser Delight: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s sure to become a family favorite that everyone will request again and again. Quick Meal Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a satisfying meal fast. Endless Variations: Switch it up with added black beans or sweet potatoes for extra nutrition and taste, or serve alongside fresh sides like avocado corn salad or Smashed Potato Salad for a full meal! Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients For the Skillet Avocado Oil – Provides healthy fat and prevents sticking; olive or canola oil can work as substitutes. Potatoes – Yukon gold for their creamy texture and hassle-free cooking; red or russet potatoes can be used, but peeling may be needed. Lean Ground Beef – The star of the dish; opt for 90/10 to avoid greasiness, or switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Yellow Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness; can be replaced with white or red onion if necessary. Red Bell Pepper – Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the mix; feel free to swap for any bell pepper or even zucchini. For Seasoning Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for bringing out flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences. Diced Green Chiles – Infuses heat and extra flavor into the dish; choose mild or hot based on your spice tolerance. Chili Powder – Adds a smoky, earthy flavor; adjust for desired spice levels. Ground Cumin – An essential spice that adds warmth; avoid substitutions to keep the flavor profile intact. Smoked Paprika – Contributes a delicious smoky note; you can use regular paprika if necessary. For Toppings Cilantro – Offers freshness and a hint of citrus flavor; can be omitted if not a fan. Shredded Cheese – Elevates the creaminess of the dish; cheddar and Monterey Jack recommendations, or choose a Mexican blend for variety. This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is an ideal quick meal, blending hearty ingredients into a single pan for a delightful family dinner experience. Enjoy crafting this delicious recipe! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by pouring 2 tablespoons of avocado oil into a 12-inch cast iron skillet. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and gives the potatoes a wonderful crispy texture. Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer and let them cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring often until the potatoes achieve a lovely golden color and start becoming tender. This initial step lays the foundation for the flavors in your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. Step 3: Add the Ground Beef After the potatoes are golden, push them to one side of the skillet to create space. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the empty side of the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and no longer pink, perfectly infusing the skillet with a rich, savory aroma. Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables Next, add 1 diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper to the skillet, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, making it even more comforting. Step 5: Add Seasonings Mix in 1 can of diced green chiles alongside 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the ingredients evenly. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, enriching the dish’s overall flavor profile. Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking Gradually fold the cooked potatoes back into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly combined with the ground beef and vegetables. Allow everything to cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully. This is the heart of your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, packed with warmth. Step 7: Add the Cheese Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 1 minute, or until the cheese is perfectly melted, creating a deliciously gooey layer on top that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Step 8: Garnish and Serve Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Serve the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet hot, directly from the pan, allowing everyone to dig in. This vibrant dish is not just visually appealing but also ensures a satisfying and hearty meal for the whole family. Make Ahead Options This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a fantastic recipe for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can chop the vegetables (onion, bell pepper, and potatoes) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef a day ahead, which not only shortens your cooking time but also deepens the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped components in the skillet, add the spices, and cook for about 10-12 minutes until everything is heated through and the potatoes are tender. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delightful family dinner with minimal fuss! Expert Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Uniform Potato Size: Cutting potatoes into ½ inch cubes ensures even cooking. Irregular sizes may lead to some being undercooked while others become mushy. Proper Cooking Temperature: Always let the avocado oil heat sufficiently before adding potatoes. This helps achieve that desirable crispy texture instead of a soggy result. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Opt for fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness, but if you use dried, limit it to 1 tablespoon to retain the dish’s freshness. Adjusting Spice Levels: Begin with less chili powder and cumin if you’re unsure about heat, and add more to taste for a customized flavor experience. Moisture Control: If the skillet appears too dry, a spoonful of beef broth can help avoid dryness without overwhelming the dish, enhancing the overall flavor. Leftover Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days—just be sure to avoid freezing to maintain the potato’s texture in your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. Variations & Substitutions for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Feel free to mix things up and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and substitutions! Sweet Potatoes: Replace Yukon gold with sweet potatoes for a healthier, naturally sweeter alternative that adds a unique flavor profile. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the dish while maintaining that savory goodness. Add Beans: Toss in a can of black beans or pinto beans for added protein and texture, enhancing the heartiness of your skillet meal. Zucchini Swap: Ditch the red bell pepper and use diced zucchini instead for added veggies and a different texture, creating a deliciously satisfying twist. Taco Seasoning Boost: Amp up the flavor by swapping chili powder with a pre-mixed taco seasoning for an extra kick of delicious spices that everyone will love. Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese blend, making this dish suitable for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing taste. Serving Style: Transform this skillet into a filling taco filling or breakfast burrito by serving it in tortillas, topped with scrambled eggs and avocado for a morning delight. Extra Veggies: Add frozen corn or peas towards the end of cooking for an additional pop of color and nutrients, harmonizing wonderfully with the other flavors. With these creative swaps, your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet will never get boring! If you’re looking for other delicious dishes, consider trying the Cheesy Potato Taquitos or a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Beef to keep your meal ideas fresh and exciting. Happy cooking! Storage Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as the potatoes can become mealy upon defrosting, compromising the texture of your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, ensuring you avoid a soggy texture. Serving Sizes: Consider portioning your leftovers into single servings before storing; this makes it easy to grab a quick meal without fuss! What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet? Enjoy this delightful one-pan meal with simple sides that enhance its flavors and textures. Avocado Corn Salad: The cool, creamy avocado combined with sweet corn adds a refreshing zing that complements the skillet beautifully. Southwestern Bean Salad: Packed with protein and colorful veggies, this salad’s tangy dressing contrasts perfectly with the savory flavors of the skillet. Tortilla Chips with Guacamole: The crunch of the chips dipped in creamy guacamole offers a fun textural element and a burst of flavor that your taste buds will love. Spanish Rice: Soft, flavorful rice infused with spices provides a comforting base that absorbs the delicious juices from the skillet, making every bite satisfying. Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty side brings a light freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish, creating a balanced meal experience. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds an indulgent twist; its crispy exterior is perfect for scooping up the hearty skillet. Margaritas or Sparkling Water: Toast to a fantastic meal with classic margaritas or refreshing sparkling water, allowing the flavors to shine even more. Churros: Finish on a sweet note with these crispy, cinnamon-sugar treats that add a delightful crunch and sweetness to your dinner experience. These pairing ideas will elevate your meal, creating a harmonious dining experience centered around the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe? I recommend using Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ease of cooking since there’s no need to peel them! If you prefer, red or russet potatoes can work too, but keep in mind you might need to peel them beforehand. How should I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This helps maintain the freshness and flavor of your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. If you’re portioning it out, consider separating it into single servings for easier reheating! Can I freeze this dish? It’s best to avoid freezing this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, as the potatoes may become mealy when defrosted, affecting the texture. Instead, focus on enjoying it fresh or refrigerating the leftovers for later. What can I do if my potatoes are still hard after cooking? If you find the potatoes are not done after the initial cooking time, you can cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes over medium heat. This allows the steam to soften the potatoes without adding more oil. Just be sure to stir occasionally! Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a gluten-free meal, provided you check your ingredient labels, especially for the seasonings. Enjoying a hearty, flavorful meal without gluten is easy and delicious! What can I substitute for cilantro if I’m not a fan? If cilantro isn’t your thing or you have allergies, you can simply omit it from the recipe. Alternatively, fresh parsley can be used as a substitute to add a bit of freshness and color. Enjoy making this dish your own! Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: Quick Family Favorite No ratings yet This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and flavorful spices for a perfect weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Skillet2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Can substitute olive or canola oil.1 pound Yukon Gold Potatoes Diced into ½ inch cubes.1 pound Lean Ground Beef 90/10 preferred.1 medium Yellow Onion Diced.1 medium Red Bell Pepper Diced.For Seasoningto taste Kosher Saltto taste Black Pepper1 can Diced Green Chiles Mild or hot based on preference.1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust for spice levels.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for flavor.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if necessary.For Toppings1/4 cup Cilantro Chopped; can be omitted.1-2 cups Shredded Cheese Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. Equipment 12-inch cast iron skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat the oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes.Add diced Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes until golden.Push the potatoes to the side and add lean ground beef, cooking until browned, about 4-5 minutes.Stir in diced onion and red bell pepper, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook another 4-5 minutes.Mix in diced green chiles, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for 2-3 minutes.Combine the potatoes back into the mixture, cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes until tender.Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top; cover for about 1 minute until melted.Garnish with cilantro and serve hot from the pan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg NotesCut potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking. Adjust spices according to personal taste and use broth if needed for moisture control. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
