Tex-Mex cuisine is beloved for its vibrant flavors, filling ingredients, and crowd-pleasing dishes. If you're a busy home cook or Tex-Mex enthusiast looking for a quick and hearty dinner, this Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet recipe is for you. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, this one-pan wonder is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Bonus? It's super simple to make and a breeze to clean up!
Follow along to learn how to whip up this flavorful, satisfying dish. You'll also find helpful tips and variations to make it your own!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tex-Mex cuisine is all about bold flavors made with simple ingredients, and this skillet delivers exactly that:
- Quick and Easy: Done in under 30 minutes, it's a great go-to for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup makes it extra convenient.
- Customizable: Add your favorite Tex-Mex toppings or adapt the recipe with what you have on hand.
- Affordable Ingredients: Uses staple items you likely already have in your pantry.
Now, let's get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh ingredients for garnish, such as cilantro, sour cream, or lime wedges
Pantry Swaps:
Missing an ingredient? Here's how to adjust:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Swap black beans for pinto beans or skip them entirely.
- Use frozen diced potatoes if short on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:
Step 1. Prep the Potatoes
Dice your potatoes into small, even cubes for uniform cooking. This ensures the potatoes become tender and slightly crispy in your skillet.
Step 2. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once fully browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
Step 3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4. Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and toss with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and tender. If needed, add a splash of water and cover the skillet to help them soften.
Step 5. Bring It All Together
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add the drained tomatoes, black beans (if using), taco seasoning, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir everything together until well combined. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes.
Step 7. Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve straight from the skillet with tortillas, chips, or a green salad on the side.
Tips for Success
- Cut Even-Sized Potatoes: Dicing potatoes evenly ensures they cook through at the same time.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Work in batches if needed to avoid steaming the ingredients.
- Balance with Freshness: Add crisp toppings like lettuce, pico de gallo, or avocado to balance the heartiness of the dish.
Delicious Variations
Make this Tex-Mex skillet dish your own with these fun twists:
- Add Heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the beef and double the black beans or add plant-based crumbles.
- Load it Up: Add cooked corn kernels or sautéed zucchini for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Breakfast Skillet: Crack a few eggs over the top and bake in the oven until the eggs are set for a Tex-Mex breakfast twist!
Why One-Skillet Meals Are a Game-Changer
If you're juggling a hectic schedule, one-skillet meals are the ultimate dinner hack. Beyond saving time and reducing dishes, they're incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust this recipe to suit dietary preferences, seasonal vegetables, or what's available in your pantry.
This Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is just one example of the many ways you can experiment with bold flavors and nourishing ingredients—all in one pan.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family dinner, game night with friends, or meal prep for the week, this skillet recipe fits the bill. It combines the comforting vibes of home cooking with the zesty kick of Tex-Mex flavors—sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Bookmark this recipe for your next busy night or casual gathering. Trust us—it’s a total crowd favorite!
Your Next Tex-Mex Adventure Awaits
Feeling inspired? Gather your ingredients and give this Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet a try tonight. It’s a deliciously simple way to bring bold flavors to your table with minimal prep and cleanup.
Do you have your own Tex-Mex twist on this dish? We’d love to hear all about it! Share your creations or tips with us in the comments. And if you enjoyed this recipe, check out more of our flavorful Tex-Mex dishes on our blog.
Happy cooking!
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