Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: 5 Quick Dinner Ideas

Name: Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Posted on August 14, 2025

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The aroma of seasoned ground beef sizzling in a skillet, combined with tender potatoes and vibrant veggies, fills the kitchen with warmth—it’s a dinner that feels like a comforting hug! Honestly, I can’t think of a more satisfying way to wrap up a busy day than with this Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those chaotic weeknights when time was tight, and the kids were hungry. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, I crafted a meal that became an instant family favorite. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s both quick and adaptable, making it perfect for families with different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a win-win situation!

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is ideal for busy families, picky eaters, or anyone looking to whip up a hearty meal without a ton of fuss. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out not just for its flavor but also for its simplicity. Let’s face it; in the hustle and bustle of family life, quick and delicious meals are a must! Here’s why you’ll love this Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your kitchen already, saving you a grocery trip.
Perfect for Family Dinners: This skillet meal is great for cozy family dinners or last-minute guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s loved by both kids and adults—no complaints at the dinner table!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of spices, beef, and potatoes creates a flavor explosion that’s pure comfort food.

What makes this recipe different? The unique blend of spices and the ease of one-pan cooking! With just a skillet, you can create a meal that feels special without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. It’s comfort food reimagined—healthy, fast, and utterly satisfying.

Honestly, after the first bite, you’ll be transported back to those family dinners of your childhood, where every forkful is filled with warmth and nostalgia. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather everyone around the table, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

Ingredients Needed

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet uses simple, wholesome ingredients to pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound (450g) ground beef: (I recommend using lean beef for a healthier option)
2 medium potatoes: (peeled and diced into small cubes; Yukon Gold works best)
1 onion: (finely chopped; adds sweetness and depth)
1 bell pepper: (chopped; any color you like for a pop of color)
2 cloves garlic: (minced; brings a beautiful aroma)
1 tablespoon olive oil: (for sautéing; feel free to use avocado oil)
1 teaspoon ground cumin: (for that warm, earthy flavor)
1 teaspoon chili powder: (adds a kick without being too spicy)
Salt and pepper: (to taste; essential for flavor)
Fresh cilantro: (for garnish; optional but highly recommended)

Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add any vegetables you have on hand. You can even swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!

Equipment Needed

For this Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for easy cleanup.
Wooden spatula or spoon: Great for stirring ingredients and keeping everything nice and mixed.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping your veggies and meat.
Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning.

If you don’t have a non-stick skillet, any large pan will do. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent sticking!

Preparation Method

Ready to whip up this delicious meal? Let’s get started! Here’s how to make your Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

Prep the Ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Dice them into small cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Add the Ground Beef: Push the veggies to the side and add the ground beef. Use your spatula to break it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
Incorporate the Potatoes: Once the beef is browned (about 5-7 minutes), add the diced potatoes and minced garlic. Stir everything together.
Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
Check for Doneness: You can check if the potatoes are cooked by piercing them with a fork. If they are soft, you’re good to go!
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

While cooking, keep an eye on the potatoes to avoid overcooking. You want them tender, but not mushy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet turns out perfectly:

Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the beef to brown properly; this adds depth to the flavor.
Adjust the Heat: If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep things moist.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more heat with cayenne pepper, or try mixing in some taco seasoning for a different flavor.
Perfect Timing: If you’re short on time, pre-cook the potatoes in the microwave for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.

Cooking is all about learning from your experiences. I’ve had my fair share of burnt bits and undercooked potatoes, so don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly the first time!

Variations & Adaptations

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is super versatile! Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef for black beans or lentils for a filling vegetarian meal.
Seasonal Veggies: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who like it spicy!

Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. You can even add cheese on top for a cheesy twist!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve, dish out generous portions of the skillet meal while it’s hot. It pairs wonderfully with:

Warm tortillas or tortilla chips
A side of guacamole or sour cream
Fresh salsa for an extra burst of flavor

For storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it up in the skillet or microwave until heated through. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delightful!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is not only delicious but also nutritious! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25g (thanks to the ground beef)
Carbohydrates: 30g
Healthy fats: from olive oil

The key ingredients like potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the beef adds protein to keep you feeling full. Plus, with the addition of fresh veggies, you’re getting a well-rounded meal!

Conclusion

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat! It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor that the whole family will love. I encourage you to make this dish your own by adding ingredients you enjoy or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it personal. I love this recipe because it brings my family together, and I hope it does the same for you! If you try it out, let me know how it goes in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them slightly before adding them to the skillet.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or swap it for turkey or chicken, and add more vegetables!

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

4. What should I serve with this skillet meal?

It pairs great with tortillas, guacamole, or a fresh salad!

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

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