Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

I absolutely love this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe because it’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together so quickly—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without fussing too long in the kitchen. The combination of tender, golden potatoes with seasoned ground beef and smoky spices hits all the right comfort food notes, while still feeling fresh and vibrant thanks to the cilantro and green chiles.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into a dish that’s both filling and packed with layers of flavor. You’ll find that it works beautifully for easy family dinners, meal prepping for the week, or even for casual gatherings where everyone wants a delicious, no-fuss meal. If you enjoy one-pan meals that don’t sacrifice taste, this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe should definitely be in your rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here are straightforward and pantry-friendly, which is one of the reasons I keep coming back to this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe. Each component plays its part to create a harmonious dish—don’t skimp on the spices though, as they really bring the flavor forward!

• Avocado oil: I love avocado oil for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, perfect for getting those potatoes nicely browned.
• Potatoes: I recommend using firm, waxy potatoes cut into 1/2 inch cubes so they cook evenly and hold their shape well.
• Lean ground beef: Lean meat keeps the dish flavorful but avoids excess grease making the skillet soggy.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth; finely diced for even cooking.
• Red bell pepper: Provides a pop of color and a mild sweetness to balance the spices.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout—don’t be shy with these.
• Diced green chiles: These add a bit of heat and tang; opt for canned to save time.
• Chili powder: The backbone of the spice blend—gives the dish its signature flavor.
• Ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth with a touch of smokiness.
• Smoked paprika: This is my secret ingredient that gives the skillet a subtle but irresistible smoky note.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and is perfect for garnish too.
• Shredded cheese: I prefer a mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar to sprinkle on top.

Variations

What I really love about this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to get creative or adjust spice levels; after all, cooking should be fun and flexible!

• Vegetarian Option: I once swapped the beef for crumbled tofu and it was surprisingly tasty and satisfying.
• Extra Veggies: Adding corn or black beans gives the skillet an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, try adding a diced jalapeño with the onions and peppers for a fiery twist.
• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free meal your whole family will enjoy.

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes to Golden Perfection

Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the diced potatoes and reduce to medium heat. Stir frequently so the potatoes brown evenly, about 6 minutes. You’re looking for a nicely golden exterior while the insides get just tender—don’t cook until fully soft yet, or they could fall apart later.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Veggies Together

Push the potatoes to one side of the pan, then add the ground beef. Break it up as it browns, and toss in diced onion and red bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper now to build layers of flavor while everything cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is thoroughly cooked and the veggies have softened, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chiles, Spices and Cilantro, Then Finish Cooking

Stir in the diced green chiles, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices coat the potatoes and beef. Cook until potatoes are tender and all the flavors come together, roughly another 6-8 minutes. Taste at this point and adjust salt or spice as needed.

Step 4: Melt Cheese and Serve Hot

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet, then cover briefly until it melts, about 1 minute. You can garnish with extra cilantro if you like that fresh herb finish. Serve immediately while everything is warm, cheesy, and comforting.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this skillet with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for color and brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can take it to the next level of deliciousness. If you want extra richness, a few slices of avocado on top never hurt either!

Side Dishes

I often serve this with a simple mixed green salad or some warmed corn tortillas on the side to scoop up all the goodness. A light, refreshing cucumber salad also pairs nicely to contrast the skillet’s warmth and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, I’ve served this skillet spooned over crispy tostadas or even as a filling for nachos topped with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. It’s also fantastic packed into warm pita pockets with some shredded lettuce and a drizzle of crema for a casual, handheld meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find they keep well for up to 3-4 days. The potatoes soak up some moisture, so I recommend reheating gently to avoid them getting mushy.

Freezing

This skillet freezes nicely if you want to batch cook. Just cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it on the stovetop over medium-low heat with the lid on, stirring occasionally to keep it from drying out. You can add a splash of water or broth if it looks dry. Microwave works too, but the stovetop helps maintain better texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those dishes that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all at once. I love sharing it with friends and family because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it a regular—easy to customize, quick to whip up, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a go and let me know how it turns out for you!

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