This Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a cozy dish packed with flavor! It combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and colorful peppers for a tasty meal that’s super simple to make.
The best part is how all those flavors mix together! I love serving this with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s a hit with everyone at the table—even the picky eaters! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. If you want a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, black beans or lentils work great too!
Potatoes: Yellow potatoes are perfect due to their creaminess, but you can swap them for red or sweet potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These veggies add sweetness and texture. If you have them on hand, feel free to use green bell pepper or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. Red onions also make a nice substitution for a milder flavor.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are what give this dish its warmth and depth. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, though it won’t have that smoky flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Potatoes?
Getting the potatoes just right can be tricky. The goal is to achieve a tender inside with a crisp outside. To do this:
- Start with a hot skillet and a good amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces, so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this allows them to brown nicely. If needed, cook in batches.
- Stir occasionally, but let them caramelize for a few minutes without stirring to develop that nice color.
Once they’re fork-tender, they’re ready to mix back in with all those flavorful beef and veggie goodness! Enjoy cooking!
Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional garnish: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10-12 minutes to prepare and cook the potatoes, and then around 15-20 minutes to cook the ground beef and mix everything together. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced yellow potatoes. Cook while stirring occasionally until they begin to brown and become tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Once they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook over medium heat until it is browned and completely cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it, but be sure to leave about 1 tablespoon in the skillet for flavor.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
After draining, add the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté these ingredients for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat!), along with salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the beef and veggies are evenly coated in the spices.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes so the flavors can meld nicely. Be sure to taste and adjust any seasoning as necessary.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once it’s all cooked and the flavors are just right, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve warm, and for a little extra treat, add shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and lime wedges on the side for squeezing, if you like!
Enjoy your hearty Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet—a flavorful, easy, and satisfying one-pan meal that’s sure to please!
Can I Use Other Ground Meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives to beef. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they can cook faster than beef.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables you like, such as corn, peas, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any additional ingredients to ensure everything is tender and cooked through.