Name: Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Cooking fat for sautéing; substitute with olive oil if needed.); 2 cups Potatoes (Yukon gold recommended for creaminess.); 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (Use 90/10% or leaner to reduce greasiness.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Can substitute with white or red onion.); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Can swap for green or yellow peppers.); 1 can Diced Green Chiles (Choose mild or hot varieties based on heat preference.); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder (Essential for the Mexican profile.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Adds warmth and complexity.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Substitute with regular paprika if needed.); Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.); Pepper (Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.); Cilantro (Fresh herb to brighten the dish; omit if not preferred.); 1-2 cups Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack recommended.)

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As the aroma of sizzling ground beef and tender potatoes fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet not only brings warmth to my home but makes weeknight dinners feel like a joyous feast. Packed with vibrant veggies and a medley of spices, it’s an easy meal prep solution that keeps both my family and my taste buds happy. With just one pan, I can create a hearty dish that delivers on flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing plate for family gatherings, this recipe fits the bill seamlessly. Curious about how to make this delicious skillet magic happen? Let’s dive in!

Why is this skillet recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at its finest: This Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Flavor Explosion: With a blend of spices and fresh veggies, each bite is bursting with bold, savory flavors that transport you straight to Mexico.

Family-Friendly: Perfectly designed for even the pickiest eaters, this dish brings everyone to the table.

Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out potatoes for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option or add extra veggies like zucchini for a nutritious boost.

Meal Prep Simplified: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week! Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge and reheat like a dream.

Make your next meal vibrant and delightful with this easy recipe. Want more savory options? Check out Smashed Potato Salad or Garlic Butter Potatoes for delicious side dishes!

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet
• Avocado Oil – Cooking fat for sautéing; substitute with olive oil if needed.
• Potatoes – Provides heartiness and texture; Yukon gold recommended for creaminess. Other waxy potatoes can work.
• Lean Ground Beef – Main protein source; use 90/10% or leaner to reduce greasiness.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; can substitute with white or red onion.
• Red Bell Pepper – Provides sweetness and color; can swap for green or yellow peppers.
• Diced Green Chiles – Adds spice and flavor; choose mild or hot varieties based on heat preference.
• Chili Powder – Essential for the Mexican profile; provides earthy, smoky flavor.
• Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and complexity; no direct substitute, but coriander might work in a pinch.
• Smoked Paprika – Contributes smokiness; substitute with regular paprika if needed.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.

For Topping
• Cilantro – Fresh herb to brighten the dish; omit if not preferred.
• Shredded Cheese – Binds the dish and adds creaminess; cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack recommended.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. When the oil glistens and is hot enough to sizzle when meat or vegetables are added, it’s ready. This will create a perfect base for your Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
Add 2 cups of cubed Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until they’re golden brown on the edges and slightly tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Beef and Vegetables
Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the empty side. Use a spatula to crumble the meat as it cooks. Incorporate 1 chopped yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper, mixing them into the beef and potatoes for flavorful integration.

Step 4: Season and Cook Thoroughly
Sprinkle in kosher salt and pepper to taste, then cook the mixture for about 6–8 minutes. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and cooked through (no pink) and the vegetables are softened. You’ll notice fragrant aromas filling your kitchen, signaling that your Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is coming together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Spices and Chiles
Stir in 1 can of diced green chiles, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined. Allow the spices to toast slightly for about 1–2 minutes, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Step 6: Ensure Tenderness
Continue cooking the skillet mixture while stirring for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften completely. The beef should be fully cooked, and the flavors will meld into a hearty, savory blend. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—it should taste vibrant and delicious.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle 1–2 cups of shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 1 minute, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey layer. The enticing visuals of the melted cheese will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve your Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet warm, directly from the pan for a delightful experience that feels just like home. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Indulge in a full sensory experience, pairing delightful sides that elevate your hearty skillet meal to a festive feast.

Creamy Avocado Corn Salad: The cool creaminess of avocado perfectly balances the warm, spicy flavors of the skillet, offering a refreshing contrast. Each bite is a burst of fresh summer vibes!
Zesty Southwestern Bean Salad: This salad adds a fiber-rich twist with black beans, corn, and a zesty lime dressing that harmonizes beautifully with the spices in the dish. It’s a colorful side that complements every spoonful of the main.
Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips and smooth guacamole provide a fun, crunchy texture. They’re perfect for scooping up hearty bites and make for a playful appetizer before your skillet steals the show!
Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa brightens the meal with its juicy tomatoes and tangy lime. This delightful topping brings vibrancy to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile with its refreshing crunch.
Tropical Mango Salsa: Sweet, diced mango mixed with zesty lime and cilantro introduces a tropical flair that contrasts the savory notes of the beef and potatoes. It adds a delightful sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Tacos de Camarón (Shrimp Tacos): Light and savory shrimp tacos bring a burst of ocean freshness to your meal. Serving them on the side creates a delightful seafood twist for those craving variety.
Watermelon Mint Refresher: This hydrating drink, with its sweet watermelon and cool mint, balances out the richness of the skillet while providing a festive, light touch.
Chocolate Flan: End the meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert that melts in your mouth. Its rich flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory main dish, cradling your taste buds in pure bliss.

Expert Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Use Lean Meat: Opt for 90/10% ground beef to standardize texture and lower grease content. This ensures a perfect, hearty skillet without pooling fat.
Parboil for Speed: If you’re pressed for time, consider parboiling your potatoes before sautéing them. This quick step reduces overall cooking time and guarantees tenderness.
Adjust Spice Levels: Always taste the mixture before serving. Depending on your preferred spice level, modify the seasoning or add more diced green chiles to suit your family’s taste.
Mix Up Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to customize! Substitute potatoes with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet that everyone will love.
Garnish for Freshness: Add freshly chopped cilantro just before serving to brighten the dish and enhance flavors. If coriander isn’t your thing, try a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick!

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Variations

Feel free to get creative with your skillet dish and tailor it to your family’s preferences!

Low-Carb Swap: Replace potatoes with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option while keeping the dish satisfying.
Not only does it alter the carb content, but it also adds an exciting nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Toss in zucchini, spinach, or even corn to ramp up the nutrition and add vibrant colors to your skillet.
These vegetables soften nicely, infusing the dish with extra flavor and making it even more family-friendly.
Spicy Upgrade: Add more diced green chiles or a splash of hot sauce for a bolder kick.
This delivers heat without overwhelming the dish, just the right touch for spice lovers!
Different Protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option like lentils for variety.
Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture, perfect for when you’re feeling adventurous!
Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta to give the dish a whole new dimension.
Each cheese melts and melds flavors uniquely, so choose based on your craving!
Breakfast Tacos: Use the beef and potato mixture as a filling for breakfast tacos by adding scrambled eggs.
This makes for a hearty breakfast option that tastes just as delightful as it does for dinner!
Herb Substitution: Swap cilantro for parsley or green onions if you’re not a fan of cilantro’s unique taste.
Fresh herbs brighten any meal, and this small change can really make the dish your own.
Bold Flavors: Elevate the taste with a squeeze of fresh lime or a dash of your favorite seasoning blend.
It enhances the richness of the dish, bringing everything together with a zesty finish.

Get inspired and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, don’t forget to check out Cheesy Potato Taquitos or explore the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Beef. Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is ideal for meal prep, saving time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the ground beef and vegetable mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the beef, onions, and peppers, and season them before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the potatoes, it’s best to chop them in advance and refrigerate, but hold off on sautéing until you’re ready to complete the dish. When ready to serve, just sauté the potatoes, combine with the prepped meat mixture, and top with cheese. This way, you’ll enjoy the same mouthwatering flavors without any fuss!

Storage Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Freezer: If you want to keep the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals.

Avoid Soggy Potatoes: To maintain the texture, avoid freezing if you want to retain the potatoes’ firmness; instead, try freezing just the beef mixture and pair with freshly cooked potatoes upon reheating.

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the skillet?
I recommend using Yukon gold potatoes for that creamy texture and slight sweetness, which beautifully complements the dish. However, other waxy varieties like red potatoes can work just as well if you don’t have Yukon gold on hand!

How can I store leftovers of the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It’s always a good idea to let the skillet cool completely before sealing it up to preserve freshness.

Can I freeze the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
Absolutely! You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for an even texture. If you want to maintain the potatoes’ firmness, consider freezing just the beef mixture and cooking fresh potatoes upon reheating!

What should I do if the potatoes are too soft?
If your potatoes end up too soft, try reducing the cooking time next time or parboiling them before adding to the skillet to control their texture better. Keep an eye on them and taste test; if they’re tender but too mushy, they might have cooked a little too long.

Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, when it comes to allergies, be mindful of potential reactions to ingredients like cheese or spices. If you want a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Additionally, for those with gluten sensitivities, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your seasonings!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch and store it in individual containers for quick, weeknight dinners. Just make sure to reheat properly to maintain the delicious flavors and texture of your Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.