Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Flavorful and Hearty Meal

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table. This one-pan meal is packed with a hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of beans and tomatoes. It’s a comfort food that satisfies your cravings with its savory taste and appealing texture. The soft potatoes alongside the juicy beef create a satisfying mouthfeel that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this recipe is versatile enough to be served for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and easy preparation. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, it fits various dietary needs and can easily be adjusted to accommodate personal preferences. So, let’s dive into how to make this delicious skillet!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. This sets the base for cooking your ingredients evenly.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key to developing a deep, rich flavor in the dish.
Brown the Beef: Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, using a spoon to break it apart. This ensures that all pieces are evenly cooked and flavorful.
Incorporate the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should begin to soften and absorb the spices.
Add Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the black beans and diced tomatoes, mixing well. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the dish warm, garnished with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch that brightens the flavors.

Pro Tips

Quality of Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (like 90/10) to avoid excess grease. The quality of your meat can greatly impact the dish’s flavor and healthiness.
Prepping Potatoes: For quicker cooking, soak diced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will help them cook evenly and become tender faster.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This can elevate the dish’s flavor and give it a spicy kick.
Stirring Techniques: Stir gently to avoid mashing the diced potatoes. You want them to be tender yet hold their shape in the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a preferred choice for many due to its bold flavors and simplicity. The harmony between the seasoned beef, earthy potatoes, and hearty beans creates a satisfying dish that’s filling without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners when time is tight.

In addition, this recipe caters to a variety of dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, and with simple alterations, it can be made low-carb or even vegetarian. It’s a flexible dish that can adapt to what you have on hand or what you enjoy most, ensuring that everyone at your table can find something to love.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

When serving, consider presenting your dish in a large cast-iron skillet for a rustic look that invites sharing. You can top each serving with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of avocado to add creaminess.

For side dishes, think about classic options like a simple green salad or some warm tortillas to keep with the theme. As for drinks, a light lager or a refreshing margarita can complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Store Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

This dish is great for meal prep! To store leftovers, let the skillet cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them!

Tips to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Consistency in seasoning is key! Taste as you go, adding more salt or taco seasoning based on your personal preference. Be careful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not mushy.

Using fresh ingredients, such as homemade taco seasoning, can also elevate the overall flavor profile. Don’t forget that garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of flavor, but it also enhances visual appeal.

Variation Ideas

Vegan Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of water for additional flavor.
Spicy: Add diced green chiles or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Low-Carb: Replace the potatoes with riced cauliflower for a lighter, lower-carb version.
Gluten-Free: Rest assured, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe bet for gluten-sensitive diners.

Nutrition Information

Storage and Reheating

To reheat, you can easily use the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm. For oven reheating, place your skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. If using a skillet, warm it on low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to switch out the beans or add bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. You might also experiment with different spices such as cumin or paprika to create layers of flavor. If you enjoy a crunch, consider topping it off with tortilla strips or crumbled cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Underseasoning: Make sure you taste your dish as you prepare it to adjust seasonings as needed.
Overcooking Potatoes: Keep an eye on the cook time for your potatoes to ensure they don’t turn to mush.
Using Too Much Oil: Just a bit is all you need for sautéing. Excess oil can make the dish greasy.
Not Browning the Beef: Properly browning the beef ensures a deeper flavor. Don’t rush this stage!

Serving Occasions

This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings with friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s also a fantastic option for game days or potlucks, allowing you to feed a crowd with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why Make This Recipe

What sets this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet apart from other similar dishes is its simplicity and the burst of flavors. In just one pan, you can create a hearty meal that combines protein, fiber, and comforting carbs, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied. Plus, the use of kitchen staples makes it an accessible recipe for any home cook.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, leaner alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can easily make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder, or simply use any spices you enjoy.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and cook it ahead of time. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be adjusted based on your taste. The taco seasoning gives flavor but is not inherently spicy unless you add hot peppers or hot sauce.
Can I add cheese on top?
Definitely! Adding cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack on top during the last few minutes of cooking can make it extra delicious.

Disclaimer: Nutrition information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and cooking methods. Adjustments to ingredients can affect both taste and nutrient content.