Name: Savory Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or any neutral oil); 2 cups cubed Yukon gold potatoes (or russet potatoes); 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 blend); 1 cup diced yellow onion (any onion variety); 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (or green/yellow peppers); to taste kosher salt; to taste black pepper; 1 can diced green chiles (or hotter chiles if desired); 1 tablespoon chili powder (or taco seasoning); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack); fresh cilantro (optional)

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As I was preparing dinner the other night, a delightful aroma wafted through the kitchen, instantly turning my mundane cooking session into a mini celebration. What was the star of the show? My beloved Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. This one-pan meal comes together in just 35 minutes, ensuring that even on the busiest nights, I can still whip up something delicious and satisfying. Not only is it a family-friendly option that everyone will love, but it’s also perfect for meal prep—making busy weekdays a whole lot easier. If you’re tired of fast food and craving something hearty and fulfilling, join me on a culinary adventure to savor every bite of this comfort dish. What twists might you bring to this recipe?

Why is this Skillet a Must-Try?

Simplicity: One-pan meals save you time and effort, making cleanup a breeze.

Flavorful: The combination of spices turns simple ingredients into a fiesta for your taste buds!

Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages.

Versatile: Feel free to tweak the recipe with your favorite veggies or spices, just like in my Ground Turkey Stuffed peppers!

Quick Cooking: Ready in just 35 minutes, which means more time for family and fun!

Meal Prep Hero: Perfect for prepping ahead of time; leftovers are also great for quick lunches throughout the week.

Say goodbye to fast food and discover the joy of homemade meals that everyone will rave about!

Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet

Avocado oil – Provides a cooking fat; you can use any neutral oil if unavailable.
Potatoes – The base of the dish; Yukon gold is preferred for its creamy texture, but russets work too.
Lean ground beef – The main protein source; opt for a 90/10% blend to keep it leaner.
Diced yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to substitute with any onion variety available.
Red bell pepper – Brings sweetness and vibrant color; green or yellow bell peppers can be used if preferred.

For Flavoring

Kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors; adjust to your taste.
Diced green chiles – Provides mellow heat and flavor; swap for hotter chiles if you like it spicy!
Chili powder – Adds heat and depth; you can also use taco seasoning as a substitute.
Ground cumin – Adds that essential earthiness for an authentic Mexican flavor; no substitute necessary.
Smoked paprika – Imparts a delightful smoky flavor; use regular paprika if you want a milder taste.

For Garnishing

Cilantro – Fresh and flavorful; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
Shredded cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess; cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack are fantastic choices.

Ready to dive in? Gather these simple yet amazing ingredients, and let’s create a delicious Ground Beef and Potato Skillet the whole family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer and become hot, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This will create a perfect base for the potatoes, ensuring they get a nice golden color as they sauté.

Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
Add 2 cups of cubed Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Sauté the potatoes for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become golden and slightly tender. You want to see a little browning forming on the edges, indicating they are cooking properly before moving forward.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the sautéed potatoes to one side of the skillet and add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Using a spatula, crumble the beef as you cook it, letting it brown for about 6-8 minutes. The beef should be cooked through and no longer pink, blending beautifully with the sautéed potatoes once fully combined.

Step 4: Mix in the Vegetables
Stir in 1 cup of diced yellow onion and 1 cup of chopped red bell pepper into the skillet. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the onion is translucent and fragrant, adding depth and a wonderful aroma to the Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Step 5: Add the Spices and Chiles
Incorporate 1 can of diced green chiles, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the mixture. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to warm and meld with the other ingredients, creating a delightful flavor profile.

Step 6: Cook Until Tender
Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 6-8 minutes, so the potatoes become fully tender and the beef is thoroughly cooked. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want everything to be well combined and bursting with flavor, embodying the essence of a comforting Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Step 7: Top with Cheese
Once everything is cooked to perfection, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid, letting it sit for 2-3 minutes over low heat. This will allow the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a creamy topping that adds so much flavor to your skillet dish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, if desired, garnish the skillet with fresh cilantro for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve the cheesy Mexican ground beef and potato skillet directly from the pan to your plates while hot, savoring each delicious bite. Enjoy a meal that combines comfort and joy for the whole family!

Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Uniform Cuts: Ensure all potato cubes are cut to the same size. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
Avoid Overcrowding: When browning the ground beef, avoid crowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice sear and flavor.
Taste as You Go: As you add spices and ingredients, taste frequently to adjust seasoning. This way, you’ll avoid under-seasoning, ensuring your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is bursting with flavor.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If using fresh cilantro for garnish, add it right before serving. Dried herbs can be added earlier in the cooking process for a deeper flavor.
Reheat Wisely: When reheating leftovers, do so gently to maintain the potatoes’ texture. Consider warming in a skillet rather than a microwave for best results.
Customize It: Feel free to swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini or corn works wonderfully, making this a versatile and enjoyable meal!

Storage Tips for Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this skillet dish due to the texture of potatoes; they may become mushy when thawed.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, stirring occasionally.

Serving Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy the Ground Beef and Potato Skillet fresh.

Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Variations

Feel free to make this comforting dish your own with these exciting twists!

Vegetable Medley: Swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini, corn, or even spinach to add color and nutrients. Each variation adds a unique flavor profile, making it fun to experiment!
Spicy Upgrade: Replace the regular diced green chiles with jalapeños or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. The heat will bring new life to your skillet!
Taco Twist: Serve this dish in taco shells or burritos for a fun twist; add scrambled eggs for breakfast burritos—a great way to mix up your mornings!
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for heat or provolone for an interesting flavor twist, melting beautifully over your dish.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as oregano or thyme to enhance aroma and complexity; they harmonize beautifully with the spices.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked sausage or chorizo for an added depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crispy potatoes. Perfect for meat lovers!
Sweet Surprise: Toss in some diced sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish. It’s a delightful surprise bite!
Creamy Goodness: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a creamy and tangy finish that elevates each bite.

With so many delicious options, you’ll never tire of this skillet! Also, don’t forget to check out my Ground Beef Burrito or Italian Ground Chicken for more inspiration.

What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Elevate your meal with a delightful selection of sides that complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish.

Avocado Corn Salad: The cool, creamy avocado and sweet corn provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet, perfect for balancing the spices.
Fluffy Rice: Serve your skillet over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the savory juices to soak in, creating a flavor-packed experience with every bite.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, these chips are perfect for scooping up the skillet’s cheesy goodness, making every mouthful a mini fiesta.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a luscious texture and bright flavor that enhances the dish while cooling down the heat from the spices.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds an exhilarating burst of freshness, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall flavor profile.
Chilled Cerveza: Enjoy this dish with a cold beer for a classic pairing; the carbonation and lightness contrast well against the savory ingredients.

These pairing options are sure to turn your one-pan meal into an unforgettable family feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can pre-chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can fully cook the skillet, let it cool, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before reheating. To maintain quality, store it in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the skillet on medium heat until warmed through, then add the shredded cheese to melt for that creamy finish. This makes enjoying a home-cooked meal effortless and just as delicious as when freshly made!

Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! For this recipe, Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and flavor. Look for smooth-skinned potatoes without dark spots or blemishes. If Yukon gold isn’t available, russets are a good alternative; just remember to peel them first for a smoother dish!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Allow the skillet to cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. You can store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep that delightful texture intact.

Can I freeze my Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
Not really! I recommend against freezing this dish as the potatoes might turn mushy upon defrosting. Instead, enjoy it fresh, as the flavors and textures are best when just made.

How do I fix over-salted dish?
If you accidentally over-season with salt, don’t worry! Add a few diced potatoes to absorb the excess. Let them cook for another 5-10 minutes, then remove the added potatoes. This will help balance the flavors without sacrificing the overall dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All of the ingredients in this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet are naturally gluten-free. However, double-check the chili powder and any canned products to ensure they’re labeled gluten-free, especially if you have a gluten sensitivity or allergy.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Very! You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through thoroughly, and season it to your liking!