This Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a hearty meal packed with flavor! You’ll enjoy tender potatoes, juicy beef, and a mix of spices that give it a little kick.
It’s an easy one-pan dish, which means less mess to clean up. I love whipping this up after a busy day; it’s quick, satisfying, and makes my kitchen smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds delicious flavor and protein. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives include lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Potatoes: Choose russet or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. Sweet potatoes are fun too, offering a sweeter taste. Just be sure to adjust cooking time as they may soften faster.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. Feel free to use green or yellow bell peppers, or even diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack work well too. For dairy-free options, try vegan cheese that melts well.
How Do I Cook Potatoes to Get Them Just Right?
Cooking the potatoes perfectly is key for this dish. Start by cutting them into even, small cubes for consistent cooking.
- Heat your skillet with olive oil, making sure it’s hot before adding the potatoes.
- Cook on medium to medium-high heat to allow them to brown nicely. Stir every few minutes, about 8-10 minutes.
- Check with a fork for tenderness before mixing them with other ingredients.
This way, you’ll get crispy edges and soft centers, enhancing the overall meal! Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Toppings and Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory skillet dish requires about 30 minutes in total—approximately 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that comes together easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced potatoes. Stir occasionally and cook them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they start to brown and soften.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the other side. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off now.
3. Add Vegetables:
Now, throw in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper into the skillet. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften.
4. Mix in the Seasonings:
It’s time to combine the flavors! Stir in the corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your skillet mixture. Cover with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes so the cheese melts beautifully.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for some fresh flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot straight from the skillet. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends; it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness to the dish. Just remember that they may soften quicker than regular potatoes, so you might want to reduce the cooking time slightly.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You could also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat, lentils, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also load up on more veggies for additional flavor and texture!
