Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Name: Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 pounds frozen O’Brien Style Hash Brown Potatoes, thawed; 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed; 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons; 1 cup beef broth; 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes and green chilies, (such as Ro-Tel® Original); 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning, mild or hot; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 3 green onions, sliced (optional)

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is scaled from its original version. Amounts adjust automatically, but cooking times remain the same. Original yield: 5 servings.

1 pound ground beef
2 pounds frozen OBrien-style hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1 zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into half-moons
1 cup beef broth
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Ro-Tel Original)
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (mild or hot)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
3 green onions, sliced (optional)

Directions

Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir frequently until fully browned and crumbly, about 3-5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Mix in the potatoes, corn, zucchini, beef broth, diced tomatoes with chilies, taco seasoning, and cumin. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer until the vegetables are tender, approximately 20-25 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Remove from heat and, if desired, top with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 938
Fat: 59g (76% DV)
Saturated Fat: 17g (86% DV)
Cholesterol: 114mg (38% DV)
Sodium: 1698mg (74% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 65g (24% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 7g (26% DV)
Total Sugars: 5g
Protein: 40g (80% DV)
Vitamin C: 46mg (51% DV)
Calcium: 327mg (25% DV)
Iron: 5mg (28% DV)
Potassium: 1409mg (30% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient info may vary depending on ingredient brands. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult your healthcare provider.

The Story Behind Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

The Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a flavorful representation of the fusion between traditional Mexican cuisine and classic American comfort food. Tex-Mex, a term coined in the early 20th century, refers to the culinary style that emerged in Texas, blending Mexican ingredients like chilies and cumin with American staples such as ground beef and potatoes. This particular skillet dish likely evolved in home kitchens, where families sought hearty, quick, and affordable meals that still carried the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. Its simplicity and adaptability have made it a staple in many Texan households over the decades.

Regional Characteristics

While Tex-Mex dishes can be found throughout the United States, this skillet recipe reflects the unique flavors of southern Texas. Ingredients like RO-TEL diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, and cumin bring the characteristic heat and zest of the region. Unlike more authentic Mexican dishes that may rely on fresh chiles and long-simmered sauces, this Tex-Mex version emphasizes convenience with frozen hash browns and corn, making it accessible to busy households while still delivering vibrant flavor. Regional variations may swap zucchini for bell peppers or add black beans for a more southwestern twist.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

What sets this Tex-Mex skillet apart from other beef and potato dishes is its combination of ingredients and bold seasoning profile. Unlike a traditional American hash or shepherds pie, this dish incorporates chili-spiced tomatoes, cumin, and Cheddar cheese for a fusion of textures and tastes. The use of frozen hash browns allows for a quicker cooking time while retaining a satisfying crispy texture, distinguishing it from slow-cooked casseroles or fully mashed potato-based meals. The final garnish of sour cream and green onions adds a fresh and creamy contrast to the rich, savory skillet.

Typical Serving Occasions

This hearty skillet is most commonly served as a casual family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. It pairs beautifully with warm flour tortillas or tortilla chips, making it suitable for informal gatherings or potlucks. Some households may serve it with a side salad or guacamole to balance the richness of the cheese and beef. Its one-pan nature makes it practical for serving multiple guests quickly, which has contributed to its popularity in Texan homes and beyond.

Interesting Facts

The Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is an example of how frozen ingredients revolutionized mid-20th century home cooking, providing speed without sacrificing flavor.
RO-TEL tomatoes, a signature ingredient in this recipe, originated in Houston, Texas, in 1943, and have since become synonymous with Tex-Mex cooking.
The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese in a skillet mirrors both Mexican cazuela traditions and American comfort food, creating a hybrid dish that is both nostalgic and practical.
Although Tex-Mex cuisine is often associated with spicy food, this recipe can easily be adapted to mild preferences, highlighting the versatility of the cuisine.
Its popularity has spread beyond Texas, inspiring numerous variations across the U.S., often incorporating local vegetables or different cheeses depending on availability.

FAQ about Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but they will need to be peeled and diced. Make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, like crumbled tofu or a vegetarian crumbles option. You can also add extra vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Absolutely! Feel free to use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

You can add a pinch of chili flakes, use hot taco seasoning, or add some diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

This dish pairs well with tortilla chips, warm flour tortillas, or even a side of guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.

Yes, you can use any type of canned diced tomatoes, though the addition of green chilies in RO-TEL adds a specific flavor. You can substitute with diced tomatoes and green chilies or use plain diced tomatoes if preferred.