Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

I absolutely love this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe because it brings the cozy flavors of a hearty Mexican dinner into one easy pan. It’s one of those go-to dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day—comforting, filling, and full of bold seasoning. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, so you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to get that savory satisfaction.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the potatoes soak up all those Mexican spices, making each bite extra tasty and a little bit addictive. You’ll find that this recipe works great for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, your family and friends will go crazy for it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver deep, comforting flavors. Choosing quality ingredients, like fresh potatoes and good ground beef, really makes all the difference.

• Avocado oil: Great for high-heat cooking and adds a neutral flavor that lets the spices shine.
• Potatoes: I use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold up well in the skillet.
• Lean ground beef: Using lean beef keeps this recipe hearty without extra grease.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Red bell pepper: Offers a nice crunch and a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
• Diced green chiles: Brings a mild heat and tang that balances out the richness of the beef.
• Chili powder: The star Mexican spice that gives this skillet its authentic flavor.
• Ground cumin: Adds an earthy, warm note that pairs beautifully with chili powder.
• Smoked paprika: This subtle smokiness makes the dish even more flavorful.
• Fresh cilantro: Stirred in at the end for freshness and vibrant color.
• Shredded cheese: I love using a melty Mexican blend or sharp cheddar for the perfect finish.

Variations

I love how versatile the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is, so I encourage you to make it your own. Whether you want more heat, extra veggies, or a lighter twist, it’s super easy to customize without losing that signature flavor.

• Spicy Kick: When my family craved something hotter, I added some chopped jalapeño along with the green chiles—it really wakes up the palate!
• Veggie Boost: Try adding corn kernels or black beans for added texture and nutrition—these work perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms; just season well to keep that depth of flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Using Queso Fresco or Cotija cheese adds a nice salty finish if you want to change up the cheesy element.

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Potatoes Until Golden and Almost Tender

Start by heating your avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, swirl it around to coat the pan evenly and then reduce the heat to medium. Add your cubed potatoes and cook, stirring often, for about 6 minutes. You want the potatoes to develop a gorgeous golden crust and begin softening, but don’t let them get fully tender just yet—they’ll finish cooking later with the beef. Keep an eye on them so they don’t stick or burn; if needed, add a splash of water and cover briefly to help them soften.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef with Onions and Bell Pepper

Push the potatoes over to one side of your skillet to make room for the beef. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spatula or spoon. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper, seasoning everything with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook this mixture, stirring and breaking apart the beef as it browns, until the meat is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender—about 6-8 minutes. I find this step is where the magic begins as the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Stir in Chiles, Spices, and Cilantro

Next, add in the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices evenly coat the beef and potatoes. Continue to cook until the potatoes are fully tender, about another 6-8 minutes. This is the point where all those warm, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors come together perfectly.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Serve Hot

Taste your skillet and add more salt if needed—seasoning is key! Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover the pan for a minute to let it melt beautifully. I love serving this immediately while it’s warm and melty, garnished with a little extra cilantro for freshness and color.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little extra chopped fresh cilantro on top and sometimes add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten it all up. If you like a little heat, sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce works wonders. These simple garnishes really elevate the dish and add that restaurant-quality touch.

Side Dishes

One of my favorite quick sides with this skillet is a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or some steamed Mexican-style corn. Black beans on the side also complement the ground beef and potatoes perfectly. If you want to keep things light, some fresh avocado slices add creaminess that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, I like serving this skillet family-style right in the pan with tortillas nearby, so everyone can make their own tacos. For a fun twist at parties, spoon the mixture into mini bell peppers or halved baked potatoes for individual servings that look pretty and are easy to grab. This recipe’s versatility makes it perfect for impressing guests without complicated plating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they keep well for about 3-4 days. This recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes nicely and holds its flavor well for up to 3 months. When freezing, I recommend leaving out the cheese, then adding fresh shredded cheese when reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For reheating, warming it up gently on the stovetop over low heat helps maintain the potatoes’ texture without turning mushy. Alternatively, you can use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between so the heat distributes evenly. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, and don’t forget to top with fresh cheese or cilantro to bring it back to life.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s simple, satisfying, and full of vibrant flavors that feel like a celebration on a plate. I love sharing it with friends who are amazed by how a handful of humble ingredients can come together into something so delicious. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again for quick weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Trust me, this one pans out beautifully every time!

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