Nothing beats the comfort and bold flavors of a one-pan wonder like this Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe. It combines tender, seasoned ground beef with hearty Yukon gold potatoes, all smothered in a smoky, slightly spicy tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, this skillet meal brings vibrant colors, a medley of textures, and authentic Mexican-inspired tastes right to your table in under an hour. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each item plays its part in creating an explosion of flavor, texture, and inviting color that makes the dish so special.
- Olive oil: Adds the perfect base for cooking and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- Lean ground beef: Provides richness and protein without being too fatty.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Chili powder: Brings a smoky warmth that defines the dish’s Mexican flair.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and subtle spice, a true Mexican flavor staple.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle bite for balanced seasoning.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a lovely smoky note that complements the chili powder.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat kick.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy base for the sauce to coat the beef and potatoes perfectly.
- Low-sodium beef broth: Adds moisture and a savory depth without salt overload.
- Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and amplifies the tomato flavor.
- Yukon gold potatoes: Tender and creamy, they soak up all those delicious spices and sauce.
- Frozen corn kernels: Adds pops of natural sweetness and color.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top for a decadent finish.
- Fresh cilantro: Optional, for a bright, fresh garnish that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with finely chopped yellow onion. Cook, stirring and breaking up the beef, until the meat loses all its pink color and the onions soften and become translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pan so your skillet stays flavorful but not greasy.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Next, sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and if you like a mild kick, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything well so the beef is evenly coated with these fragrant spices. This step is where the vibrant Mexican flavors really start to build, making your kitchen smell incredible.
Step 3: Add Sauces and Potatoes, Simmer
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and a spoonful of tomato paste. Give it a good stir to combine, then toss in the diced Yukon gold potatoes. Stir everything together so those potatoes are well coated with the sauce and spices. Cover the skillet and turn the heat down to medium-low, letting it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally—the potatoes will become tender and the sauce will thicken into a rich, comforting blanket over the beef and potatoes.
Step 4: Stir in Corn and Melt the Cheese
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, stir in the thawed corn kernels for a burst of sweetness and texture. Then sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese wonderfully melts into gooey perfection, tying all the flavors and textures together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe by removing it from heat and adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you have it on hand for that fresh, citrusy brightness. Serve it hot straight from the skillet to keep things cozy and casual, ideal for gathering friends or a satisfying family dinner.
How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing elevates this skillet dish with a fresh contrast. Bright cilantro leaves work beautifully, adding color and a fresh herbal note. You could also add dollops of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime for extra tang and creaminess. A few sliced jalapeños on top gives a spicy crunch for those who like it hot.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad or Mexican-style street corn (elote) make refreshing companions. Warm corn or flour tortillas are also fantastic for scooping up every bit of that delicious beef and potato mixture, turning it into a fun taco night.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual get-together, serve it straight from the skillet on the table to invite everyone to dig in family-style. Or, scoop portions into individual bowls and top each with avocado slices or a drizzle of hot sauce for a restaurant-style presentation. You can even stuff it into baked poblano peppers for a colorful twist on presentation and additional smoky flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the potatoes soak up flavors so well, the dish actually tastes even better the next day when the spices have had extra time to meld.
Freezing
To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover skillet either on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen up the sauce if it’s thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon golds offer great creaminess and hold their shape well, red potatoes or even russets can work. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender but not mushy.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is mild by default thanks to the chili powder and smoked paprika. However, you can easily customize the spice by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you want a bigger kick.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Yes, lean ground turkey or chicken can be used if you prefer a lighter option. Keep in mind the cooking time may be slightly less, and the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have tomato paste?
If you’re out of tomato paste, you can increase the tomato sauce slightly or use a bit of canned crushed tomatoes, though the sauce might be a touch less thick and intense in flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This skillet is perfect for making ahead, and because it reheats so well, you can pack portions for lunches or dinners throughout the week with ease.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug filled with bold spices and hearty comfort, the Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe is calling your name. Its ease of preparation and incredible flavor combination make it a total winner any day of the week. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes one of your go-to meals for cozy nights or casual gatherings. Happy cooking!
Print
Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired skillet dish featuring lean ground beef, tender Yukon gold potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices simmered in a rich tomato sauce, finished with melted sharp cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% or higher)
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup canned tomato sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cups Yukon gold potatoes, diced small (about ½-inch pieces)
- ⅓ cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
- ⅓ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking apart the beef with a spatula until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and onions evenly with the spices.
- Combine Sauces and Potatoes: Stir in the canned tomato sauce, low-sodium beef broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Add the diced Yukon gold potatoes and mix well to combine all ingredients. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let everything simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Add Corn and Cheese: Stir in the thawed corn kernels. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the dish hot, directly from the skillet for a rustic and comforting presentation.
Notes
- Choose Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape well during simmering.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
- To make this dish gluten-free, double-check that your tomato sauce and broth have no added gluten-containing ingredients.
