Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Name: Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
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

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: August 9, 2025

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Introduction to Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

As a passionate home cook, I cherish the moments spent preparing meals that bring my family together. The Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that embodies everything I love about home cooking: it’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a vibrant meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights, this skillet dish takes the hassle out of dinner while delivering comforting flavors that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

If you’re juggling a busy schedule, the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet can be your culinary lifesaver. It combines minimal prep time with incredible flavors, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. The hearty ingredients come together seamlessly, ensuring the whole family will enjoy every bite. Plus, the one-pan approach means less cleanup, giving you more time to unwind after dinner. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

The beauty of this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet lies in its versatility. You’ll need avocado oil for sautéing, but feel free to swap it with olive oil if that’s what you have on hand. Potatoes are the star, cut into small cubes for even cooking. Lean ground beef is essential for that hearty flavor, but turkey or chicken could work, too. Don’t forget diced onions and red bell peppers for sweetness. Spice things up with green chiles, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Top it off with melted cheese and cilantro for a vibrant finish. For exact measurements, check the printable recipe!

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

To kick off your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, start by choosing a good quality oil like avocado oil. It has a high smoke point, perfect for frying. Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom of the pan. This initial step is crucial. If the oil’s not hot enough, your potatoes will just soak up the oil instead of frying nicely.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Once your oil is heated, it’s time to add the potatoes. Cut them into 1/2 inch cubes—uniformity promotes even cooking. Toss them into the skillet and let them sizzle for about 6 minutes. Stir them occasionally to get that lovely golden-brown color. This step is all about patience! When they’re tender inside but crispy outside, you’ll know you’ve nailed it. If they’re browning too fast, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables

With the potatoes getting beautifully golden, push them to one side of the skillet. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the other side. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the beef into bite-sized pieces, making sure to break it apart as it cooks. Mix in 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. This is where we start to build that delicious flavor profile! Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together, letting those veggies soften and mingle with the beef, which should take around 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings and Combine

Now for the fun part—adding flavor! Toss in 4 ounces of diced green chiles, 2 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This combination will transport you to a vibrant Mexican fiesta. Stir everything to ensure the spices are well mixed. It’s also a great time to taste and adjust seasoning. If it needs more salt or spice, don’t hesitate to add it. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the beef is cooked through. The aroma alone will have your family buzzing with excitement!

Step 5: Melt Cheese and Serve

Finally, it’s time to get cheesy! Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover it with a lid for about a minute or until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. It’s those little finishing touches that make the difference. If you really want to impress, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This adds a pop of color and flavor—absolutely delightful! Now, serve hot and watch your family devour it. Each bite is a warm, comforting hug in a skillet.

Tips for Success

Pre-chop vegetables and store in airtight containers for quick meal prep.
Ensure potatoes are cut evenly to cook all at the same rate.
Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings for your family’s preferences.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup and less sticking.
Keep a lid handy to speed up cooking by trapping heat.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet (a non-stick option makes for easy cleanup).
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables.
Measuring spoons for accurate seasoning.
Lid for covering the skillet while the cheese melts.

Variations

For a vegetarian twist, substitute ground beef with crumbled tempeh or lentils for a hearty texture.
Want to spice things up? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a unique flavor and added nutrients.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a distinct taste.
For a low-carb option, swap potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter skillet dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with a refreshing side salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette.
Serve with warm tortillas for a fun DIY taco experience.
A chilled glass of horchata complements the dish beautifully.
Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

FAQs about Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

I often receive questions about the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, so let’s dive in and address the most common ones!

Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner protein. Just keep an eye on cook times as chicken may take a bit less time to brown.

How can I make it spicier? If you like a kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also increase the chili powder for that extra heat!

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, indeed! Prepare everything up to the cooking step, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just heat it up in a skillet, add the cheese, and you’re good to go. This makes dinner a breeze on busy nights!

Final Thoughts

Making the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is more than just a cooking task; it’s an opportunity to create joyful moments at the dinner table. As you savor each bite, you’ll feel the warmth of family connections and the satisfaction of preparing something both tasty and comforting. I encourage you to put on your apron and try this recipe! It’s a delightful meal that brings vibrancy and flavor to your busy nights. With each skillet, you’re not just feeding hungry bellies—you’re building beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.