Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how the crispy, golden potatoes pair perfectly with the savory, spiced ground beef—each bite packed with simple ingredients but bursting with flavor! It’s one of those dishes that come together quickly on a weeknight yet tastes like you spent hours cooking.

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised by how versatile it is—you can serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and it always hits the spot. Best of all, it’s a fantastic one-pan dinner, meaning fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax. Give this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe a try, and I promise it’ll find a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of fresh, familiar ingredients that come together beautifully in a skillet. I suggest picking firm potatoes that hold up well to frying and fresh cilantro for that burst of brightness at the end.

• Avocado oil: I love this oil because it can handle high heat without smoking, perfect for getting potatoes crispy.
• Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets, cut into uniform 1/2 inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Lean ground beef: Look for 90% lean for a balance of flavor and less grease.
• Diced yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth; don’t skip it.
• Red bell pepper: Brings color and a mild crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender potatoes.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season generously for the best taste.
• Diced green chiles: Adds authentic heat and smoky flavor; use canned ones for convenience.
• Chili powder: I recommend fresh chili powder—freshness makes a huge difference here.
• Ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth that pairs beautifully with the chili spices.
• Smoked paprika: This little addition adds a subtle smoky note that makes the dish sing.
• Chopped cilantro: Stirred in last for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
• Shredded cheese: Melts perfectly on top; I usually go for a mild cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Variations

I love mixing things up to keep this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe fresh and exciting. Feel free to swap ingredients or add extras to make it your own!

• Spicy variation: Once, I added a diced jalapeño along with the green chiles, which gave a perfect extra kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Vegetarian version: Try replacing ground beef with crumbled tempeh or cooked lentils; you won’t miss the meat at all!
• Extra veggies: Toss in diced zucchini or corn for a colorful, nutrient-packed twist.
• Cheese swap: Pepper Jack cheese adds a nice hint of spice if you like a little heat in your cheese.

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Get those potatoes golden and tender

Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, swirl it around to coat the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Add the cubed potatoes and keep them moving by stirring often. This step is key—you want the potatoes to develop those beautiful golden edges but still be just tender enough to poke with a fork. It usually takes about 6 minutes. Don’t rush it or crowd the pan; give the potatoes enough space to crisp up.

Step 2: Cook the beef and sauté the veggies

Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the open space, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper right away so they soften and mingle into the beef. Season everything well with kosher salt and black pepper—don’t worry if it feels like a lot at this stage because the potatoes are still neutral. Make sure you continue to break the beef apart as it cooks to get nice little crumbles instead of large chunks.

Step 3: Spice it up and finish cooking

Now stir in the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything thoroughly, coating all the ingredients with the spices. Let it cook together until the potatoes are fork tender and the beef is fully cooked—this usually takes another 6 to 8 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt as needed. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover the skillet for a minute until it melts, and you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of topping this dish with an extra sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or crema to add creamy tang. Sometimes, I’ll add slices of ripe avocado or a few drops of lime juice for a zesty contrast. It really brings the dish to life and adds a layer of freshness that balances the richness of the beef and potatoes.

Side Dishes

This skillet is pretty hearty on its own, but when I want to round out the meal, I like serving it with a simple green salad or some warm, soft tortillas on the side. Mexican rice or refried beans also pair beautifully if you’re looking to go full fiesta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, I’ve served this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe in mini cast iron skillets to give guests their own portion. It’s a nice way to elevate the presentation and everyone loves a personalized touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find they stay delicious for up to 3 days. When you reheat, just make sure to do it gently to keep the potatoes tender but not mushy.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well—I portion it out into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s perfect for meal prepping busy weeks ahead without losing much flavor or texture.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer warming it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. This method keeps the potatoes crispy on the edges rather than soggy, unlike microwaving, which I use only for last-minute reheats.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is one of those comforting dishes I reach for again and again. From the first time I made it, it became a family favorite—not just because it’s delicious and filling, but because it’s quick and straightforward without compromising flavor. If you want a meal that feels like a cozy, homemade treat, give this a try. I’m confident it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen, just like it did in mine.

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