The aroma of sizzling potatoes mixed with seasoned ground beef is a sure-fire way to turn any busy evening into a family feast. This Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is not just simple to whip up, but it’s also a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze. With tender Yukon Gold potatoes, vibrant red bell peppers, and a medley of spices, this hearty dish brings a delightful Mexican-inspired twist to your dinner table. The best part? It packs enough flavor to satisfy even the pickiest eaters while being ideal for meal prep. So, are you ready to discover this quick, crowd-pleasing recipe that promises comfort and joy in every bite? Let’s dive in!

Why is this skillet a family favorite?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners.

Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavorful ingredients, it’s perfect for satisfying hunger without complicated prep.

One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple dishes to clean, freeing up more time for family fun.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its cheesy goodness and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead for quick lunches or weeknight dinners, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.

For extra flavor, consider serving it alongside an avocado corn salad for a refreshing touch!

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet

Avocado Oil – A great cooking fat for sautéing; you can substitute with vegetable oil or olive oil if needed.
Potatoes (Yukon Gold) – The heartiness of this dish comes from these tender potatoes; there’s no need to peel them, and sweet or red potatoes work as substitutes.
Lean Ground Beef – This main protein source keeps it filling; aim for a lean ratio of 90/10 to reduce excess grease.
Yellow Onion – Adds aromatic flavor; you can easily switch to white or red onions if that’s what you have on hand.
Red Bell Pepper – Provides a sweet, colorful crunch; green or yellow peppers can also be swapped for variety.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Season to taste, typically around 1-1.5 teaspoons of salt enhances the overall flavor.
Diced Green Chiles – A mild ingredient that adds a touch of heat; for more spice, use jalapeños or leave them out for a milder option.
Chili Powder – This key spice elevates the dish; taco seasoning makes a great substitute if you’re in need.
Ground Cumin – Imparts warmth and depth to the dish; if you don’t have it, feel free to omit.
Smoked Paprika – Contributes a delicious smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used in a pinch.
Cilantro – This fresh herb brightens the dish up; if you’re not a fan, you can skip it entirely.
Shredded Cheese – Adds a melty topping; choose cheddar, colby jack, or spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

Each ingredient in this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet plays a vital role in creating a flavorful, hearty meal that’s not only easy to make but also enjoyed by all!

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

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Swirl the oil to evenly coat the surface, then reduce the heat to medium. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready, setting the stage for the vibrant flavors of this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes to the skillet and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to develop a golden-brown color and become nearly tender. This initial step is crucial for creating that hearty base full of texture in your skillet dish.

Step 3: Add Beef and Vegetables
Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add 1 pound of lean ground beef along with a diced yellow onion and chopped red bell pepper. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook this mixture, breaking the beef into smaller pieces for about 7–8 minutes until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices and Chiles
Stir in a can of diced green chiles, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix well with the beef and vegetables, allowing the spices to infuse for about 2 minutes. This step brings the flavor profile of your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet to life while ensuring that each bite is packed with warmth and spice.

Step 5: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking everything together for another 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fully tender and the beef is cooked through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the skillet.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Once your dish is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid for 1 additional minute. This will melt the cheese perfectly, creating a gooey and irresistible topping on your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve your hearty, cheesy skillet dish hot, and watch it disappear as everyone enjoys the comforting flavors and easy preparation of this delicious meal!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Complement your dinner with these delightful sides that enhance the meal’s Mexican-inspired warmth.

Avocado Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of sweet corn and creamy avocado, this salad cuts through the richness of the skillet and adds a burst of flavor. The bright colors and textures make it a vibrant addition to your plate.
Southwestern Bean Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, this colorful salad features black beans, corn, and zesty lime. It provides an earthy crunch that balances the hearty skillet dish perfectly.
Black Bean Corn Salsa: A tangy salsa that combines black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro for a fresh, zesty accompaniment. Scoop it up with tortilla chips for a delightful contrast in texture.
Spanish Rice: Fragrant and flavorful, this rice dish with tomatoes, onions, and spices complements the richness of the cheesy skillet beautifully. It adds a lovely layer of comfort to your meal.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole serves as a perfect sidekick, while the crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping. Together, they offer a fun and interactive way to enjoy your hearty main dish.
Crispy Fried Plantains: Sweet and savory, these fried plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the beef and potatoes, while their crispy exterior adds a satisfying crunch.
Chilled Margarita: For a beverage, a refreshing margarita pairs well with your Mexican-inspired meal. The slight tartness and sweetness will complement the rich flavors of the skillet, making every sip feel like a celebratory toast.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet wonders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the potatoes, onions, and bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance by chopping them and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more efficiency, brown the ground beef and sauté the veggies, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain that delightful texture and flavor, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat before adding the spices and chiles. Finally, once everything is warmed through, simply top with cheese and let it melt for a delicious and quick meal that feels just like a home-cooked feast!

Expert Tips for Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Uniformly Diced Potatoes: Ensure your potatoes are cut into even pieces to achieve a consistent cook throughout the skillet, preventing some from being undercooked.
Check Beef Quality: Use lean ground beef (90/10) to avoid excess grease, keeping your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet flavorful without being oily.
Season Before Serving: Taste your skillet before serving to adjust the salt and spice levels; this final touch can elevate the flavor beautifully.
Stir Frequently: While cooking, stir the beef and veggies often to prevent sticking and ensure that everything cooks evenly.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables, like zucchini or corn, for added nutrition and a pop of color in your dish.

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your dish with these delightful twists!

Sweet Potatoes: Substitute Yukon Gold with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced zucchini or corn to add more color and nutrition. These veggies will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Taco Filling: Use this mixture as a filling for tacos or burritos! Just warm up some tortillas and load them with this fabulous filling for a fun twist.
Heat it Up: Add diced jalapeños instead of green chiles for a spicier kick. This variation will certainly please those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt right before serving to add creaminess and a tangy flavor.
Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or green onions if you’d prefer a different herbal note to finish off your dish.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack for an extra spicy touch or a Mexican blend for a richer flavor.
Flavor Boost: Try adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors immensely.

By exploring these variations, you’ll discover new favorite ways to enjoy your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet! For more tasty inspiration, check out my Garlic Butter Beef recipe that uses a similar blend of comforting, rich flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This way, you can enjoy leftovers without compromising on flavor or freshness.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: Reheat the skillet on medium-low heat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and enjoy!

Make-Ahead: Prepare the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet in advance for meal prep. Simply reheat for a convenient and hearty meal during your busy week!

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the best flavor?
For this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, I recommend Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and natural sweetness. If you want a different flavor profile, sweet potatoes or red potatoes are great alternatives. Just make sure they are fresh and firm without any dark spots.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store your skillet leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, be sure to cool down the dish before sealing it up; this helps avoid condensation that can make your potatoes soggy.

Can I freeze the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the skillet in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. For optimal texture, I recommend thawing it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, just warm it up on medium-low heat in a skillet or the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

What can I do if my beef is too greasy?
If you find your skillet is too greasy, there are a couple of tricks you can use! First, make sure to use lean ground beef with a 90/10 ratio. If you’ve already cooked it and it’s greasy, you can drain the excess fat from the skillet before adding your other ingredients. Additionally, you can balance the dish with extra potatoes or veggies to absorb some of the oil.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free, but it’s easily adjustable! If someone in your household has dietary restrictions, you can substitute the shredded cheese with dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version. Moreover, always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens, especially with the diced green chiles and spices.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish while keeping it tasty?
When reheating, I suggest using a skillet over medium-low heat for the best results. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and prevent it from sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to retain moisture. This helps keep the potatoes tender while warming the beef thoroughly.