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Here’s what you need for a tasty Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: - 1 lb ground beef - 2 medium-sized potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (choose your favorite color), chopped - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish) - Slices of avocado (for serving) - Shredded cheese (optional, for topping) Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal that bursts with flavor. Each item plays a key role, from the savory ground beef to the hearty potatoes. The bell pepper and tomatoes add color and freshness, while spices bring warmth and depth. When you mix them together, they create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. This blend of ingredients helps you make a dish that will impress everyone at the table. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Mexican Beef and Potato Skillet! - First, gather your ingredients. - Chop the onion and bell pepper finely. - Dice the potatoes into ½-inch cubes. - Measure out the spices and oil. - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. - Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until tender. - Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute. - Next, increase the heat to medium-high. - Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. - Break it apart with a spatula and brown it for about 5-7 minutes. - Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced potatoes. - Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Cover the skillet with a lid to help them soften. - When the potatoes start to soften, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes. - Add 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and more spices. - Stir everything until well combined. - Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. - Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Check if the potatoes are fork-tender and fully cooked. - Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. - For serving, use a large spoon to scoop out the skillet dish. - Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro on top. - Add slices of avocado and optional shredded cheese. - Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful meal experience. For more details, check out the Full Recipe. To ensure even cooking, cut your potatoes into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate as the beef. A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for this dish. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets hold heat well, which aids in browning the beef and crisping the potatoes. You can add more spices to boost flavor. Try oregano, paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon. For heat, start with a little cayenne pepper and adjust to your liking. If you enjoy fresh herbs, add cilantro or parsley at the end for a bright taste. This dish pairs well with warm tortillas or rice. You can also serve it with a side salad for a fresh touch. For family-style dining, serve it right from the skillet. Top it with avocado slices and cheese for a beautiful presentation. Add a squeeze of lime for extra zing! {{image_4}} You can switch out the ground beef for other proteins. Turkey or chicken works well too. For a plant-based meal, try lentils or tofu. These options still give you a hearty dish. You can also add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn add color and flavor. They make the meal more nutritious and fun. If you're avoiding gluten, use gluten-free ingredients. Most spices and canned goods are safe. You can also make a low-carb version. Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips. This change keeps the dish tasty while cutting carbs. Want to change things up? Use local spices for a new taste. Try adding cumin or oregano for a twist. You can also make fusion dishes. Mix in curry powder for an Indian flair or use BBQ sauce for a fun BBQ skillet. Each variation lets you explore new flavors. Enjoy the journey in your kitchen! After cooking your Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, let it cool down first. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid for storage. This method helps keep the flavors intact. In the fridge, the dish lasts up to four days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers. To freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking. Your skillet meal can stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until steaming hot. This keeps the flavors vibrant and delicious. For a faster option, use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can serve this dish with warm tortillas. They add a nice touch. You might enjoy sliced avocado on the side. A simple green salad also pairs well. Consider some tangy pickled onions for extra flavor. Fresh cilantro on top gives it a pop of color. Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook it fully, then let it cool. Store it in a container in the fridge. When you want to eat, just reheat it in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. This recipe takes about 45 minutes in total. You will need around 10 minutes for prep. Cooking takes about 35 minutes. It serves four people, perfect for a family meal. Absolutely! To add heat, mix in more cayenne pepper. You can also add chopped jalapeños. For a smoky flavor, try chipotle powder. Taste as you go, so it suits your spice level. If you want, use ground turkey or chicken. These meats work well in this recipe. For a plant-based option, try lentils or crumbled tofu. They soak up flavors nicely and keep it hearty. This recipe shows you how to make a tasty Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. You learned about the crucial ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. Cooking can be simple and fun, especially when you customize your dish. Experiment with spices, proteins, and flavors that you enjoy. Don’t forget to store leftovers correctly. Enjoy sharing this meal with family or friends. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table!

Mexican Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of this Zesty Mexican Beef and Potato Skillet! This simple, hearty recipe combines ground beef, diced potatoes, and fresh veggies for a delicious one-pan meal. With spices that pack a punch, you can customize the heat to your liking. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights! Click through for the full recipe and start cooking a family favorite tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

2 medium-sized potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (choose your favorite color), chopped

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)

Slices of avocado (for serving)

Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and the onion becomes translucent.

    Add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.

      Increase the heat slightly to medium-high, then add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart, cooking until browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes. Ensure that the beef is no longer pink.

        Stir in the diced potatoes, allowing them to cook for about 5 minutes. To help the potatoes soften, consider covering the skillet with a lid for a few minutes.

          Once the potatoes have begun to soften, pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices) and season with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Stir everything together until well combined.

            Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the potatoes are fork-tender and fully cooked.

              Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

                Once the beef and potato mixture is fully cooked and the flavors have melded beautifully, remove the skillet from heat.

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For a rustic touch, serve the skillet directly on the table. Garnish the top with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. Accompany the dish with slices of creamy avocado and, if desired, a handful of shredded cheese for added richness. Serve with warm tortillas on the side for a delightful meal experience!