Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together with just one skillet, saving time and cleanup. The combination of tender, spiced ground beef and golden, crispy potatoes makes every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite toppings or side dishes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner lineup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Russet potatoes, diced

• Onion, diced

• Garlic, minced

• Olive oil or vegetable oil

• Chili powder

• Cumin

• Smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper

• Diced tomatoes (optional)

• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

• Jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook until golden brown and tender, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the beef and onions with spices.

5. Add the cooked potatoes back to the skillet and combine with the beef mixture. If using, stir in diced tomatoes.

6. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and potatoes to crisp up further.

7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and jalapeños if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Add bell peppers or corn for extra veggies and color.

• Top with avocado slices or sour cream for creaminess.

• Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

• Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For best texture, reheat on the stove to help crisp the potatoes again.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it in advance and store it refrigerated, then reheat when ready to eat.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for crispiness, but Yukon Gold can also be used.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but note that potatoes may lose some texture after freezing and reheating.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spiced but can be adjusted to your heat preference by adding jalapeños or cayenne.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, diced fresh tomatoes can be used but may add more moisture, so adjust cooking time.

How do I keep the potatoes crispy?

Cook the potatoes separately first and avoid overcrowding the pan to get them crispy.

Can I add cheese before baking or just as a topping?

Cheese can be added both ways; melting it over the skillet adds richness.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use pre-cooked or leftover potatoes?

Yes, just add them towards the end to heat through and crisp up slightly.

Conclusion

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights. The combination of spices, tender beef, and crispy potatoes ensures a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to customize and enjoy any time. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a great way to bring bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your dinner table.