Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: A Flavor Fiesta in One Pan!

This Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a one-pan wonder packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, vibrant Tex-Mex spices, and your favorite toppings. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth with minimal cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **One-Pan Wonder:** Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful and Customizable:** Adjust the spices and toppings to your liking.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses inexpensive ingredients you probably already have on hand.
* **Family-Friendly:** A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 pound ground beef:** Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize grease.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **1 medium onion, chopped:** Adds flavor and sweetness.
* **1 bell pepper, chopped:** Adds color and sweetness; use any color you like.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent, savory flavor.
* **1 teaspoon chili powder:** For that classic Tex-Mex flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon cumin:** Adds warmth and earthiness.
* **1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika:** Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon oregano:** Adds a subtle herbaceous note.
* **1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional):** For a touch of heat.
* **1 teaspoon salt:** To enhance the flavors.
* **1/2 teaspoon black pepper:** For a bit of spice.
* **1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, diced:** Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well and have a creamy texture.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained:** Adds acidity and moisture.
* **1/2 cup beef broth:** Helps to cook the potatoes and adds flavor.
* **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese:** For topping.
* **Optional toppings:** Sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro, green onions, jalapenos.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large skillet (12-inch):** A cast-iron skillet is ideal, but any large skillet will work.
* **Cutting board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knife:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Measuring spoons and cups:** For measuring ingredients.
* **Spatula or wooden spoon:** For stirring.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**

* Dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Uniformly sized potatoes will cook evenly.
* Chop the onion and bell pepper.
* Mince the garlic.
* Gather all your spices and have them ready to go.
* Shred the cheddar cheese.

**Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef**

* Heat the olive oil in the large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula.
* Cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
* Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.

**Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**

* Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef.
* Cook until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

**Step 4: Add the Spices and Tomatoes**

* Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
* Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This will help to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor.
* Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet.

**Step 5: Add the Potatoes and Beef Broth**

* Add the diced potatoes and beef broth to the skillet.
* Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
* Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**Step 6: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender**

* Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before moving on. If they are still firm, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking periodically.

**Step 7: Top with Cheese and Melt**

* Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
* Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for a minute or two.

**Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro, green onions, and jalapenos.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

* **Use different types of potatoes:** Russet potatoes will also work, but they may not hold their shape as well as Yukon gold. You can also use red potatoes for a slightly waxy texture.
* **Add other vegetables:** Corn, black beans, or zucchini would be great additions to this skillet.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
* **Spice it up:** Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
* **Add a can of Rotel:** For a burst of flavor and a bit of heat, add a can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies.
* **Use different types of cheese:** Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious.
* **Make it a complete meal:** Serve with a side of cornbread or a simple salad.
* **Meal Prep Friendly:** This skillet is great for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop.
* **Make it in advance:** You can prepare the skillet up to the point of adding the cheese a day ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, then add the cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Toppings Galore:** Get creative with your toppings! Think beyond the basics and try pickled onions, crumbled cotija cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

* **With a side salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will complement the richness of the skillet.
* **With cornbread:** Cornbread is a classic pairing with Tex-Mex flavors.
* **In tacos or burritos:** Spoon the mixture into warm tortillas for a fun and interactive meal.
* **Over rice:** Serve over cooked rice for a heartier meal.
* **With a dollop of guacamole:** Guacamole adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on toppings)
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Enjoy this flavorful and easy Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet! It’s a surefire way to satisfy your cravings for Tex-Mex cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.