Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

A delicious one-pan meal, the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet combines hearty ingredients with bold flavors. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying option that pleases everyone. With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, this skillet meal stands out for its rich taste and minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be on the table in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
• Flavorful: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, this meal bursts with authentic Mexican flavors.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: A hearty meal that kids will love, making it great for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Ensures safety and efficiency when chopping vegetables and preparing meat.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut ingredients quickly, enhancing your prep time.

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Ingredients

For the Skillet

• 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

For Seasoning

• 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, swirl it to coat the bottom of the skillet and reduce the heat to medium.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add the potatoes and cook them, stirring often, for about 6 minutes or until they turn golden and start to become tender.

Step 3: Add Ground Beef and Vegetables

Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add in the ground beef. Crumble the beef while adding in the onion and red bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Cook while continuing to break apart the beef as it cooks.

Step 4: Mix in Spices and Chiles

Add in the green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together. Cook until both potatoes are tender and beef is cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste for seasoning; add additional salt if needed. Top with shredded cheese and cook for another minute until melted. Garnish with more cilantro if desired and serve hot.

With this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, you’ll enjoy a filling meal that’s packed with flavor without compromising on convenience!

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Serving your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet can elevate this dish to a whole new level. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spices.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado brings a rich, buttery flavor that complements the beef and potatoes.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and extra flavor.

As a Burrito Filling

• Tortillas: Use warm tortillas to wrap the skillet mixture for a delicious burrito.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the mixture in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Serve the skillet mixture over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal.
• Quinoa: For added protein, pair it with quinoa, which will soak up all the flavors.

How to Perfect Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Perfecting your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions significantly boost flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the chili powder and cumin based on your heat preference.
• Brown the Meat Well: Ensure that the ground beef is well-browned for maximum flavor development.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Potatoes: Allow enough time for potatoes to become tender; this enhances their taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this classic side pairs perfectly with the skillet.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and complete the Mexican theme beautifully.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with lime dressing adds sweetness and crunch.
4. Guacamole: Homemade guacamole offers a creamy contrast that enhances every bite of the skillet.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add depth of flavor.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer or side snack.
7. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw offers freshness that balances out the hearty skillet dish.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or cheese complement the rich flavors wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your beef and potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper as you cook.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Allowing the potatoes to overcook can make them mushy. Cook them until they are just tender and starting to turn golden.
• Not crumbling the beef properly: If you don’t break the ground beef into small pieces, it may cook unevenly. Crumble it well while cooking for even texture.
• Ignoring the resting time: Serving immediately without letting the dish rest can affect flavor. Allow it to sit for a minute or two before serving.
• Forgetting cheese toppings: Missing out on cheese can take away from the dish’s richness. Always add cheese at the end and let it melt for added flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered baking dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still be delicious!

What sides pair well with Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?

Consider serving it with a fresh salad, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added crunch.

How spicy is this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?

The spice level mainly comes from chili powder and green chiles; adjust these ingredients to suit your taste preference.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in veggies like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love, so give it a try!