Ground Beef Mexican Style Recipe
Ground beef cooked Mexican style is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be used in a variety of meals, from tacos and burritos to nachos, quesadillas, and rice bowls. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with traditional Mexican spices and fresh ingredients, offering a delicious and satisfying dish for any occasion. It’s quick to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for a busy week.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 lean to fat ratio)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 3-4 fresh Roma tomatoes, diced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added spiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- Juice of 1 lime (optional)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeño slices, fresh salsa
Optional Serving Suggestions:
- Warm corn or flour tortillas
- Rice
- Tortilla chips
- Lettuce for wraps
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onions. Cook the onions for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Then, toss in the diced bell pepper and jalapeño, if using. Sauté the vegetables for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the center of the pan. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook over medium heat. Brown the beef thoroughly, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, for about 5-7 minutes. The beef should be fully cooked through and no longer pink.
Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid the mixture becoming greasy.
3. Season the Beef:
After draining the fat, stir the beef and vegetables together. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and become aromatic.
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
Add the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and the tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Pour in about 1/4 cup of water or beef broth to help loosen the mixture and create a sauce.
Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together, and the mixture should thicken slightly as the liquid reduces. If you prefer a saucier consistency, you can add a bit more water or broth.
5. Finish with Fresh Cilantro and Lime:
Once the beef has simmered and the flavors have developed, stir in the freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. If you like a touch of brightness, squeeze in the juice of one lime. This adds a fresh, tangy note that balances the richness of the beef and spices.
Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. If you prefer more heat, you can add a bit more cayenne or chili powder at this stage.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mexican-style ground beef is ready to serve! It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Tacos: Spoon the ground beef mixture into warm tortillas and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh salsa.
- Burritos: Wrap the beef with rice, beans, and cheese in a large tortilla for a hearty burrito.
- Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and jalapeño slices.
- Quesadillas: Use the beef as a filling for quesadillas along with cheese and cook until golden brown on each side.
- Rice Bowl: Serve the ground beef over a bed of rice and add your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Variations: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a richer flavor, mix ground beef with ground pork.
- Beans: For added texture and protein, consider stirring in a can of black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans during the simmering stage.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as corn or zucchini, to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion:
This Ground Beef Mexican Style recipe is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With the combination of spices, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables, it provides a rich, hearty meal that’s versatile enough for tacos, burritos, and more. The ability to customize it with various toppings and sides makes it a favorite in Mexican-inspired cuisine. Enjoy!