Best Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

The Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a deliciously rustic, one-pan dinner that blends savory ground beef with tender, golden potatoes, all seasoned with warm Mexican spices. Topped with melty cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime, it’s the perfect comfort food with a flavorful twist. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe delivers a satisfying, spicy bite in under 40 minutes. It’s versatile, family-approved, and easily customizable add beans, peppers, or a fried egg on top for extra flair. This is a dish that proves hearty doesn’t have to mean complicated.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 yellow onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 2 cups gold potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes

• 1/2 cup low sodium beef broth

• 1/2 cup frozen corn

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Lime wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and swirl to coat.

2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic, ground beef, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

4. Cook until beef is browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease.

5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

6. Add diced potatoes and beef broth. Cover with a lid and simmer on medium-low for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender.

7. Remove lid, stir in corn and simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes.

8. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover until melted.

9. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 355 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Hearty, Flavorful, and Fast: Exploring the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

The Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a dish that truly hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, full of flavor, quick to prepare, and requires minimal cleanup making it a winner for weeknight dinners or anytime comfort food. Rooted in traditional Mexican flavors but adapted for modern kitchens, this one-skillet meal delivers savory satisfaction with every bite.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins, health benefits, tips for success, creative variations, and ideal pairings for this meal. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone looking for easy and delicious dinner ideas, this skillet recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

A Fusion of Tradition and Convenience

Ground beef and potatoes are staples in countless cuisines around the world. But when you introduce chili powder, cumin, paprika, and the zest of lime, the meal takes on an unmistakable Mexican flair. The skillet method keeps things simple everything cooks in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and reducing the mess left behind.

While traditional Mexican dishes like picadillo and papas con chorizo incorporate similar ingredients, this recipe is streamlined for speed without sacrificing authenticity. It’s a great representation of how global cuisines can be adapted to meet the demands of contemporary life.

Why This Recipe Works

There are a few reasons this dish is so popular:

1. Balanced and Satisfying

The combination of protein from the beef and complex carbohydrates from the potatoes makes this a well-rounded meal. The cheese adds creaminess, while spices and fresh garnishes bring brightness and complexity.

2. Quick and Easy

The entire meal can be on the table in under 40 minutes. The potatoes cook in the same skillet with the beef thanks to a quick simmer in beef broth, cutting down on cooking time and dishes.

3. Affordable Ingredients

All of the components ground beef, potatoes, corn, onion, and spices are pantry and fridge staples. It’s budget-friendly without feeling basic or bland.

4. Kid- and Family-Friendly

This recipe isn’t overly spicy (though you can certainly turn up the heat), making it ideal for all ages. It’s cheesy, hearty, and familiar yet flavorful enough to please adult palates.

Nutritional Highlights

If you’re aiming to eat more whole foods without giving up taste, this meal is a great option. Here’s a look at what it brings to the table:

• Protein: Lean ground beef provides a solid dose of protein, which helps build and repair muscle and keeps you feeling full.

• Potatoes: Often misunderstood, potatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber (especially with the skins on). They offer energy and satiety.

• Corn: A good source of antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are great for eye health.

• Spices: Not only do spices like cumin and paprika add flavor, they also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

While this dish isn’t low-carb or keto, it does strike a healthy balance when paired with a salad or some grilled vegetables.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider the following:

Use Waxy Potatoes

Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best because they hold their shape during cooking. Russets can get too soft and may break apart in the skillet.

Don’t Skimp on the Spices

This dish relies on a mix of warm, smoky spices to bring it to life. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference, but don’t skip the chili powder or cumin they are the backbone of the flavor.

Keep It Moist

The beef broth not only helps cook the potatoes faster but also creates a flavorful base for the dish. Cover the skillet while simmering to trap the moisture and cook everything evenly.

Let the Cheese Melt

Add the cheese after everything is cooked and allow it to melt gently under a lid or under a broiler for a bubbly finish.

Variations and Add-Ons

This dish is extremely versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can adapt it based on your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs.

Add More Vegetables

Diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or black beans can be tossed in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They boost the nutritional profile and stretch the meal further.

Switch Up the Protein

Ground turkey, chicken, or chorizo all work well in place of beef. You can even make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a plant-based ground alternative.

Turn It Into Tacos

Scoop the filling into warm tortillas, top with sour cream and salsa, and you’ve got easy tacos. This variation is great for meal prepping or serving buffet-style for a crowd.

Make It a Casserole

Pour the finished skillet contents into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly for a more indulgent take.

What to Serve with It

Though this dish is satisfying on its own, here are a few complementary ideas for rounding out your meal:

• Side Salad: A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette or avocado slices balances the richness.

• Mexican Rice or Cilantro-Lime Rice: Double down on the comfort factor.

• Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Great for scooping up the cheesy skillet mixture.

• Fried Egg on Top: For a breakfast-for-dinner twist.

• Pickled Jalapeños or Red Onions: Add a tangy kick to each bite.

Ideal for Meal Prep

One of the best things about this recipe is that it holds up beautifully as leftovers. The flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for make-ahead meals. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

If you’re someone who batch cooks on the weekend, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion:

The Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is more than just a quick meal it’s a comforting, customizable, and crowd-pleasing recipe that celebrates the heart of Mexican-inspired home cooking. It combines simple, affordable ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and new.

With just one skillet and about 40 minutes, you can serve up a meal that’s filling, flavorful, and worthy of seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just in need of a quick fix that doesn’t compromise on taste, this recipe delivers on all fronts.