Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

I absolutely love this Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe because it’s one of those meals that feels like a big warm hug after a busy day. The way the tender potatoes soak up all those incredible flavors from the seasoned beef and red chile sauce makes it something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish hits the spot every time.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together to make such a satisfying dinner. You’ll find that it’s perfect for weeknight meals since it cooks up in about 30 minutes and uses just one skillet. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or warm tortillas for a complete, comforting Mexican-inspired feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in harmony, balancing spice, richness, and texture perfectly. When shopping, keep an eye out for quality ground beef and a good red chile sauce—you’ll be amazed how much it elevates the dish.

• Ground beef: I prefer 85/15 for a nice balance of flavor and fat that keeps everything juicy.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth—chop it finely so it blends well.
• Jalapeño or green pepper: Provides just the right kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Garlic: Minced for that classic aromatic punch.
• Taco seasoning: Homemade or store-bought, it’s the spice mix that ties all the flavors together.
• Red chile sauce: I love El Pinto brand for its authentic New Mexican flavor, but red enchilada sauce or tomato paste works too.
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid to tenderize the potatoes and infuse the beef.
• Russet potatoes: Diced to about half an inch for even cooking and that perfect tender-yet-firm bite.
• Kosher or sea salt: Just enough to enhance all the savory goodness without overpowering.

Variations

I like to switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge or what everyone’s craving. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own—it’s flexible enough to handle a few tweaks.

• Spicy Boost: When I need extra heat, I add a diced chipotle pepper in adobo or sprinkle cayenne powder—watch how your family reacts! They actually enjoy the smoky undertones.
• Vegetarian Version: I’ve swapped ground beef for crumbled tofu or cooked lentils with equally tasty results—just adjust seasoning and broth as needed for flavor balance.
• Cheesy Twist: Adding a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack at the end creates a melty, creamy finish that my kids go nuts for.
• Different Potatoes: Yukon gold gives a creamier bite, while sweet potatoes add a nice subtle sweetness; both are fantastic alternates I’ve tried.

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding a splash of oil or cooking spray—this helps prevent sticking. Toss in the ground beef, chopped onion, jalapeño, and minced garlic. I like to break up the beef as it cooks so it browns evenly. Cook until the meat loses its pink color, usually about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain excess grease to keep the dish from feeling greasy or heavy.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Sauces

Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well so every bit of beef gets coated. Pour in the red chile sauce followed by the chicken broth—this is where your flavors really start to meld beautifully. The broth helps simmer and soften the potatoes later on.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Simmer

Next, add the diced russet potatoes and sprinkle a bit of salt if your taco seasoning isn’t very salty. Bring everything to a low boil, then lower the heat and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check the potatoes for softness—you want them cooked but still holding their shape.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop your Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes onto warm plates, spoon over some hot rice, and don’t forget tortillas on the side—they’re great for scooping up every last bit. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or avocado and dig in!

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

My go-to garnishes include fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime—these brighten the rich, savory flavors perfectly. Sometimes I sprinkle shredded cheese on top or add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

I usually serve this with Mexican rice and refried beans or black beans. Warm corn or flour tortillas are a must—I love using them to scoop up the beef and potatoes. A simple side salad with lime vinaigrette works well too for some fresh crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I like to set up a “taco bar” with this recipe as the filling, surrounded by bowls of toppings and sides. Another time, I layered it in a casserole with tortillas and cheese for a cheesy baked Mexican casserole—it was a hit and made for effortless next-day lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This recipe actually tastes even better the next day since the flavors have more time to meld, which makes for easy and delicious meal planning.

Freezing

I’ve frozen portions of this dish successfully by letting it cool completely then packaging it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep texture intact.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway through. Just keep an eye on it so it stays tender and juicy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making this Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone eagerly gathers around the table. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require fuss but delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and feel confident that it will quickly become one of your go-to meals for busy weeknights or anytime you want something hearty and heartwarming.

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