If you are craving a dish that is cozy, bursting with flavor, and simple enough for any night of the week, the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Tender, golden potatoes meet perfectly seasoned ground beef in one sizzling skillet, infused with vibrant spices and fresh cilantro that brighten every bite. This recipe offers a perfect balance of hearty textures and bold Mexican-inspired flavors, all coming together in a single pan that makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you need a comforting dinner for your family or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this dish ticks every box for ease, taste, and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy, hearty potatoes to the subtly smoky and spicy notes brought by the seasonings, every element counts.
- Avocado oil: Its high smoke point helps crisp the potatoes beautifully without burning.
- Potatoes: Cubed into 1/2 inch pieces to ensure tender interiors with crispy edges.
- Lean ground beef: Adds protein and savory richness while keeping the dish light.
- Diced yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth as it softens.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a splash of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- Diced green chiles: Bring mild heat and a vibrant punch of flavor.
- Chili powder: The star spice that infuses the dish with warm, smoky Mexican character.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Smoked paprika: Contributes a subtle smokiness that ties the flavors together.
- Chopped cilantro: Freshness and brightness to lighten the skillet’s richness.
- Shredded cheese: Melted on top for gooey, melty indulgence that makes every bite irresistible.
How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook Potatoes
Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, swirl it around to coat the pan evenly, then lower the heat to medium to avoid burning. Add the cubed potatoes, stirring frequently for about 6 minutes until they develop a golden crust and become tender but still have a slight bite. Getting this texture just right is key to the dish’s hearty feel.
Step 2: Add Ground Beef and Vegetables
Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet to make room, then add the lean ground beef. Use a spatula to crumble it evenly as it cooks. Toss in the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper at the same time. Season everything with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the beef is mostly browned and the vegetables soften, infusing the skillet with savory goodness.
Step 3: Incorporate Spices and Cilantro
Next, add the diced green chiles along with the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and freshly chopped cilantro. Stir well to evenly disperse the spices and herbs throughout the skillet. Keep cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes, allowing the potatoes to finish softening and the flavors to meld beautifully for that unmistakable Mexican flair.
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Cheese Topping
Give your skillet a final taste and add a little more salt if needed to balance the flavors perfectly. Then sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt completely for about a minute. The melty cheese adds a luscious, comforting finish that transforms this humble skillet into something truly special. For an extra touch, garnish with additional chopped cilantro before serving hot.
How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, try topping it with fresh garnishes that add brightness and texture. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can add refreshing tang, while sliced jalapeños or a few sliced avocado pieces introduce creaminess and a bit of heat that beautifully complements the skillet’s flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands proudly on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or warm corn tortillas. A side of refried beans or Mexican rice can make it even more satisfying, perfect for a well-rounded Mexican-inspired meal that will leave everyone smiling and satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your family or guests? Serve the skillet directly from a rustic cast-iron pan for a cozy, homey vibe. You can also get creative by scooping the mixture onto tostadas or stuffing it into warm pita pockets. Another fun idea is layering it inside a baked potato for a loaded, comfort-food twist that’s as fun as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe stays delicious when stored properly. Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This way, the flavors have time to deepen, making your next serving even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to keep the skillet for longer, freezing is easy. Spread the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer and be a fantastic ready-to-go meal for busy days. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, thaw fully first for even warming. You can also use a microwave, covering the dish to trap steam and keep the potatoes moist, reheating in short bursts until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best for their texture, red potatoes or fingerlings can be used as well. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they become tender but don’t fall apart.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe offers mild to moderate heat thanks to the green chiles and chili powder. You can easily adjust the spice level by using milder chiles, or adding a pinch of cayenne if you want more kick.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are great alternatives that still absorb the spices wonderfully and provide that hearty feel.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Good news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chili powder and other spices are uncontaminated. Just double-check spice labels and enjoy without worry.
What cheese works best for melting on top?
Cheddar or Monterey Jack are perfect choices because they melt smoothly and add a nice creamy flavor that complements the spices without overpowering them.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about one-pan dishes that bring together bold flavors with minimal fuss, and the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe does just that. It’s warm, comforting, and ready to become one of those recipes you turn to again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret adding this flavorful skillet to your dinner rotation.
Print
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal combining tender cubed potatoes, lean ground beef, and vibrant Mexican spices. Cooked on the stovetop, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that brings together the smoky notes of cumin and paprika with the fresh finish of cilantro and melted cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Cook Potatoes: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, swirl it to coat the bottom of the skillet and then reduce the heat to medium. Add the cubed potatoes and cook them, stirring often, for about 6 minutes or until they start turning golden and becoming tender but still firm enough to eat.
- Add Ground Beef and Vegetables: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add in the lean ground beef and crumble it with a spatula. Then add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook, breaking the beef apart as it cooks, until the beef is mostly browned.
- Incorporate Spices and Cilantro: Add the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir everything together to blend flavors thoroughly. Continue cooking until the potatoes are fully tender and the beef is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Final Seasoning and Cheese Topping: Taste the mixture and add more salt if necessary. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet and cook for another minute until the cheese is melted. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro before serving hot.
Notes
- Use avocado oil for a high smoke point and subtle flavor.
- Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Lean ground beef reduces excess grease but you can use ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Adjust chili powder and cumin according to your spice preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or beans and skip cheese if desired.
