This tasty Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet combines juicy beef, soft potatoes, and bold spices for a meal that’s both filling and fun! It’s like a fiesta in a pan!
Cooking this dish is so easy and quick—perfect for busy days. I love how the flavors mix together and make my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, leftovers? Yes, please! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its heartiness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work well too. For a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or black beans!
Potatoes: Regular russet potatoes are great here, but sweet potatoes add a nice twist! If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could use cauliflower instead.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for flavor! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, but it won’t have that smoky depth. Also, adjust the cayenne based on your spice preference.
Cheese: I use a Mexican blend for a good mix of flavors, but feel free to substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for extra kick. For a dairy-free version, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes is all about timing and heat. You want them golden and tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to get them cooking nicely without burning.
- Stir them occasionally to ensure even browning. This should take about 10 minutes.
- If they’re not cooking through, you can cover the skillet for a few minutes, allowing steam to help with the cooking.
By keeping an eye on them and adjusting as needed, you’ll have perfect potatoes in your skillet every time! Happy cooking!
Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook. In just about 40 minutes, you will have a hearty dinner that serves 4 and is packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by heating olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and let them cook for about 10 minutes. Stir them occasionally until they start to become tender and lightly browned.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Once the potatoes are cooking, push them to one side of the skillet. In the same skillet, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up while it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine and Season:
If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it now. Stir the cooked potatoes, onion, and ground beef together. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to evenly coat the ingredients with the spices.
5. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish with Toppings:
After the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Top it off with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor before serving.
Enjoy this hearty Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet as a comforting main dish full of bold flavors and colorful presentation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just be aware that it may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Potatoes?
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower works well! Simply cut it into small florets. You can also use sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor or even cooked quinoa for a grain option.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like extra heat, try adding more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also use a spicy cheese like pepper jack or top it with a zesty salsa for added flavor!