Fideo with Potatoes and Ground Beef Recipe
Fideo with potatoes and ground beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner. This classic Mexican-inspired meal combines toasted vermicelli noodles (fideo), hearty potatoes, and seasoned ground beef in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce. The combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fideo (vermicelli noodles)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Toast the Fideo: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fideo to the skillet and toast it, stirring frequently, until the noodles turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it brings out the nutty flavor of the fideo. Once toasted, remove the fideo from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add the Potatoes and Fideo: Drain the diced potatoes and add them to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine. Next, return the toasted fideo to the skillet, mixing it in with the potatoes and beef.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth into the skillet, ensuring that the fideo, potatoes, and beef are fully submerged in the liquid. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the dish to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the fideo has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked through, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the fideo with potatoes and ground beef hot, straight from the skillet. This dish pairs well with warm tortillas, a side of refried beans, or a simple green salad.
Tips
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and garlic.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This fideo with potatoes and ground beef recipe is an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.