If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the robust flavors of Mexican cuisine with a simple, quick preparation, then this Mexican Beef Potato Skillet is perfect for you. A delightful blend of savory beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant spices, this one-pan dish is as delicious as it is easy to make. Delectable and satisfying, it’s an ideal choice for a mid-week dinner that pleases everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Stirring spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
How to Make Mexican Beef Potato Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the ingredients at your workstation. Dice the potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic cloves. This preparation will streamline the cooking process, making it more efficient and enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned evenly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef and set it aside in a bowl, leaving the juices in the pan for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Toss in the diced potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the potatoes start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Season
Return the browned beef to the skillet. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir everything together until the spices coat the ingredients evenly, releasing a magnificent aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let it cook over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the potatoes are cooked through. If the mixture seems dry, a splash of water or beef broth can be added to facilitate cooking.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve
Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it simmer until the cheese is melted and gooey. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving directly from the pan.
How to Serve Mexican Beef Potato Skillet
This dish shines when served straight from the skillet to the table. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some warm tortillas for an extra touch of tradition. If you prefer, add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a creamier texture that complements the spicy notes perfectly.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, be sure to dice the potatoes and chop the vegetables uniformly. This ensures even cooking and avoids the frustration of biting into an undercooked potato. Don’t rush the seasoning process; allow the spices to thoroughly mix with the beef and vegetables for a more profound taste.
If you’re a fan of spice, feel free to add jalapeños or extra chili powder to amp up the heat. Likewise, a squeeze of fresh lime can elevate the dish with a tangy twist.
Packed with Power: The High-Protein Version
For those who are looking to beef up the protein content without altering the core flavor, consider adding black beans or red kidney beans to the mix. These ingredients not only increase the protein intake but also add more texture and enhance the hearty nature of this skillet dish.
Feel free to sprinkle additional cheese or top with a fried egg for a boost of protein that doesn’t compromise on taste. This variation is particularly great for post-workout recovery or for feeding hungry kids after a busy day.
Low-Carb Delight: The Potato-Free Mexican Beef Skillet
If you’re venturing into a low-carb lifestyle but don’t want to miss out on delicious flavors, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower. Chopped or riced cauliflower provides a similar texture without the extra carbs, maintaining the skillet’s satisfying bite.
You can also incorporate more greens like zucchini or spinach to enrich the meal with vitamins. Doing so keeps the dish light yet fulfilling, perfect for those watching their carb intake while indulging their taste buds.
Storage Instructions
Stored in an airtight container, this Mexican Beef Potato Skillet keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic meal-prep option as it retains much of its taste. When reheating, add a splash of water and gently warm it over a stovetop or in a microwave.
While freezing is possible, the texture of the potatoes might change slightly upon reheating. If planning to freeze, it’s best to substitute potatoes with a sturdier vegetable like broccoli.
FAQs
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, replace the beef with meat substitutes or additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- What can I serve with this dish? Serve it alongside a green salad or inside tortillas for a complete meal.
- How can I add more spice? Include jalapeños or hot sauce according to your spice tolerance.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, but consider substituting with sturdier vegetables if planning to freeze to retain texture.
Embrace the Flavors: A Final Note on Mexican Beef Potato Skillet
This Mexican Beef Potato Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines simplicity and depth of flavor in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or solo indulgence, let this dish warm your table and your heart. Don’t forget to share your rendition of this recipe in the comments below, and if you haven’t already, subscribe for more deliciously easy recipes!
Mexican Beef Potato Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- potatoes
- bell pepper
- onion
- garlic
- chili powder
- cumin
- paprika
- salt and pepper
- shredded cheese
- olive oil
- fresh cilantro
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare the ingredients by dicing potatoes and chopping vegetables, readying them for cooking.
- Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until evenly cooked, then remove it from the skillet.
- Sauté potatoes, onion, and bell pepper in the same skillet until tender, then add garlic and cook for one more minute.
- Return the beef to the skillet and add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover until melted, and garnish with cilantro before serving.