This Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl is a satisfying mash-up of Tex-Mex comfort and hearty homestyle cooking. Think of it as a deconstructed taco—but more filling and packed with crispy potatoes, seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and drizzles of your favorite sauces. It’s everything you love about tacos, minus the mess, and built for big appetites.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl
Hearty and filling: Meat and potatoes never go out of style.
Fully customizable: Add guac, cheese, salsa, or even a fried egg.
Easy one-bowl meal: Less cleanup, more eating.
Great for meal prep: Stays tasty all week.
Budget-friendly ingredients: Simple, satisfying, and affordable.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl
Like any great performance, this dish needs a strong cast. Let’s meet the stars.
Ground Beef: The star of the show! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a fattier blend for extra flavor.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness. I prefer Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, but russets work well too.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the potatoes and beef, adding a rich flavor.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are a great choice for this dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
Chili Powder: This spice gives the dish its signature kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin enhances the taco flavor profile beautifully.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness. Smoked paprika can elevate the dish even more.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Don’t skip these; they bring all the flavors together.
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and richness. You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
Corn: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness. Canned or frozen works perfectly.
Black Beans: Packed with protein and fiber, they make the dish more filling. Rinse them well before adding.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they add juiciness and acidity to balance the flavors.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheese on top is a must! Feel free to swap for Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack.
Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and freshness. It’s a perfect topping!
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, skip it!
Sour Cream: Optional, but a dollop adds a nice tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for crunch. They’re perfect for scooping up the taco bowl!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl
Creating a Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in your diced potatoes. Cook them for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften but not fully cook just yet. Once they’re slightly tender, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. This step ensures your potatoes will be perfectly cooked when everything comes together.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add your pound of ground beef. Cook it over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. This keeps your taco bowl from becoming greasy and lets the flavors shine.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. The aroma will be heavenly! This step builds a flavor base that’s essential for your Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl.
Step 4: Add Spices and Broth
Now it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the beef broth. This adds moisture and depth to your dish. The broth will help meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Add in the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where the magic happens! The colors and textures will start to come together, making your taco bowl visually appealing.
Step 6: Simmer and Melt Cheese
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Once it’s done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, it’s time to serve your Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl! Scoop it into bowls and top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if you like. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side for that extra crunch. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful delight!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds depth to the flavor.
Adjust spices to your taste; add more chili powder for heat.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking for better flavor melding.
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Spatula: Use a sturdy spatula for breaking up the beef.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your veggies.
Measuring Cups: Handy for portioning ingredients, though you can eyeball it!
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Lean Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Use lentils or crumbled tofu instead of ground beef for a hearty vegetarian taco bowl.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist and a hint of sweetness.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the taco bowl.
Drinks: Pair with a cold beer or a refreshing limeade for a perfect balance.
Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls and garnish with extra cilantro for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl
Can I make this Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the taco bowl in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tofu. Both options will still give you that hearty texture!
How can I make this dish spicier?
To kick up the heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder for an extra punch!
Is this taco bowl gluten-free?
Yes! The Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any canned ingredients, like beans and corn, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Just let the taco bowl cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, sparking conversations and laughter. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a dish that satisfies both hunger and the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this taco bowl brings warmth and comfort. I hope it becomes a staple in your home, just as it has in mine, reminding you that good food is meant to be shared and savored.
A delicious and hearty Ground Beef and Potato Taco Bowl that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of flavorful ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
2 medium potatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Sour cream for serving (optional)
Tortilla chips for serving (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth, then add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and the cooked potatoes. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Serve the taco bowl hot, topped with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy with tortilla chips on the side.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use lentils for a vegetarian version.
