Oh my gosh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—the *southwest ground beef potato skillet*! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, filled with hearty flavors that just scream home-cooked goodness. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant veggies creates a symphony of taste that I can’t get enough of! I remember one chilly evening, my family gathered around the table, and this skillet was the star of the show. The aroma wafting through the kitchen brought us all together, and the laughter and joy we shared over this meal made it even more special. Trust me, you’re going to love making this!
Ingredients List
1 pound ground beef
2 large potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you like!)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for flavor!)
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned (both work great!)
1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust for spice level)
1 teaspoon cumin (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Mexican blend for that melty goodness)
First, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes. The smell of that beef cooking is just divine!
Next, toss in the diced potatoes, chopped bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You want them to be soft enough to pierce with a fork, but still holding their shape.
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up so every bite is packed with deliciousness!
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This helps everything blend together beautifully, creating that mouthwatering aroma.
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover again, and let it melt for about 2-3 minutes. When the cheese is gooey and bubbling, it’s ready to serve! Wow, you’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious southwest ground beef potato skillet:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, it gives you a great idea of what you’re savoring in this hearty dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
Hearty and satisfying flavors that will fill you up and warm your soul.
Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
All-in-one skillet method makes clean-up a breeze.
Versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
Tips for Success
To make your southwest ground beef potato skillet absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your taste—if you like it spicy, add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper! Also, make sure to cut your potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking; nobody likes a mushy potato among perfectly tender ones. If you want to add more veggies, feel free to toss in some zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition. And remember, letting the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld even more. Yum!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to mix up this southwest ground beef potato skillet! For a healthier twist, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes—the sweetness pairs beautifully with the spices. You can also switch up the veggies; adding diced zucchini, spinach, or even some chopped kale can boost the nutrition and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick! You could even swap the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Serving Suggestions
This southwest ground beef potato skillet is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add a little something extra, consider serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread to soak up all that deliciousness! A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully to balance the hearty flavors. And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for that extra zing!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of this delicious southwest ground beef potato skillet is super easy! Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it too! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it should last for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through—about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal; just be sure to cover the dish to keep it from drying out. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! This southwest ground beef potato skillet works wonderfully with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
What if I don’t have black beans? No worries at all! You can swap in kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas if that’s what you have on hand. They’ll still add that hearty texture and protein.
How should I store leftovers? Simply let the skillet cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months!
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you like—zucchini, mushrooms, or even some spinach would be fantastic additions. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! This southwest ground beef potato skillet is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without any worries. Just make sure any additional ingredients, like broth or canned goods, are labeled gluten-free.
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!