This Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a warm and hearty dish! With seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and colorful peppers, it’s a great one-pan meal.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! I love how all the flavors come together, and I can have dinner on the table in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef to reduce the fat, but you could easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives like crumbled tempeh or black beans work well, too!
Potatoes: Diced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a hearty texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, sweet potatoes or cauliflower florets are great alternatives!
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers add sweetness and color. Feel free to swap in green, yellow, or even diced jalapeños for some heat. Frozen mixed peppers are a handy substitute if fresh ones aren’t available.
Cheddar Cheese: I love the flavor of sharp cheddar cheese in this dish. For a twist, try pepper jack for extra spice, or even a vegan cheese if you need a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make Perfectly Cooked Potatoes in This Skillet Dish?
Getting your potatoes cooked just right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cutting your potatoes into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking. Aim for about 1/2-inch pieces.
- Cook them in the skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This helps them cook evenly and get a nice golden crust.
- Don’t rush them. Give it about 10-12 minutes. If you’re unsure, you can test by poking a piece with a fork – it should be tender but not mushy!
Once cooked, removing them from the skillet helps avoid overcooking while you prepare the beef mixture.
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 3-4 medium potatoes)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes cooking the potatoes and another 15-20 minutes for the beef and veggies. Then just a few minutes to melt the cheese and garnish before serving. It’s a quick and simple meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook this mixture until the vegetables soften, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love how good it smells!
4. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if you like heat), along with some salt and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for another minute to toast the spices.
5. Combine Potatoes and Beef:
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and stir everything together so the potatoes are coated in all those delicious flavors. It’s looking good already!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve with Toppings:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. It’s ready to be enjoyed!
Dig in and savor your delicious Southwest Ground Beef and Potato Skillet! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends.
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of broth to moisten it.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the cheese and reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This skillet dish is satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some warm tortillas for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, enjoy it with a side of steamed veggies!