Description
This Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender diced potatoes, savory ground beef, and a robust blend of southwestern spices. Melted cheddar cheese and fresh garnishes like diced tomato, cilantro, and sour cream add layers of creamy, fresh, and tangy textures, making it quick and satisfying comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: sliced green onions for additional garnish
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Others
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for cooking the potatoes and beef thoroughly.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook while stirring occasionally for about 10-12 minutes, until golden and tender. Covering the pan with a lid for a few minutes can help speed the cooking process.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic into the cleared space and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to evenly coat the beef and potatoes with the spices.
- Melt the Cheese: Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let the cheese melt for 3-5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with dollops of sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and optionally sliced green onions. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a warming meal.
Notes
- If you prefer spicier heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños.
- Using a cast-iron skillet helps with even heat distribution and adds a nice sear to the potatoes and beef.
- For a lighter option, swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken.
- Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or microwave, making this a great meal prep dish.
- You can add black beans or corn to add more texture and flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
