Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
A flavorful and hearty Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet that combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and vibrant bell peppers, all cooked together in a single skillet with aromatic spices and topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 pound potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles
- 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook potatoes: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, swirl the oil to coat the bottom, then reduce heat to medium. Add the cubed potatoes and cook, stirring often, for about 6 minutes until they begin turning golden and start becoming tender but are still firm enough to hold their shape.
- Cook ground beef and vegetables: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef, crumbling it as it cooks. Then add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue cooking, breaking up the beef into smaller pieces, until fully browned and vegetables soften.
- Add spices and chiles: Stir in the diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Combine everything thoroughly and cook until the potatoes are fully tender and the beef is cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes more.
- Finish with cheese and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover briefly, and cook until cheese melts, about one more minute. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- Use avocado oil for a high smoke point and subtle flavor, but olive oil or vegetable oil can also work.
- For spicier heat, use green chiles with added heat or substitute with diced jalapeños.
- This skillet meal is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and reheats well for leftovers.
- Feel free to swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or add other vegetables like corn or black beans for variation.
- Use lean ground beef (90% lean or more) to reduce excess grease while maintaining flavor.
- Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
