Classic Mexican Fideo with Ground Beef and Potatoes
This comforting fideo recipe with ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, and flavorful seasonings is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish combines the earthy richness of ground beef with the tender, satisfying texture of potatoes and toasted fideo pasta. Simmered with aromatics like garlic, onions, and tomatoes, and seasoned with chicken-flavored bouillon, this dish is packed with flavor. Fideo, a thin, vermicelli-like pasta, forms the heart of this recipe, creating a warm, savory meal ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Knorr chicken-flavored bouillon cubes (or substitute with 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon powder)
- 1 package of fideo pasta
- 1 package (1 lb) of ground beef, browned and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Water, as needed for cooking
Preparing the Ingredients
- Start by preparing the vegetables: dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes, dice the tomato, and thinly slice the onion. Mince one or two garlic cloves, depending on your preference for garlic flavor.
- Set the prepared vegetables aside. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and easy.
Toasting the Fideo Pasta
- In a large, deep skillet or a medium-sized pot, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat.
- Add the fideo pasta to the skillet, stirring frequently. Toast the fideo until it becomes golden brown. Be careful not to burn it; stir constantly to ensure even browning. This step gives the fideo a nutty, roasted flavor, which adds depth to the dish.
Adding Aromatics and Seasoning
- Once the fideo is toasted, add the diced tomato, thinly sliced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Stir everything together, allowing the tomato to release its juices and the onions to soften slightly. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and you’ll begin to smell the aroma of the garlic and onions as they cook.
Incorporating the Liquid and Bouillon
- After the aromatics have softened, pour enough water into the skillet to fully submerge the fideo and create a broth-like consistency. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, crumble the two chicken-flavored bouillon cubes directly into the skillet, stirring to ensure they dissolve completely. The bouillon adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish, enhancing both the pasta and vegetables.
Adding Potatoes and Ground Beef
- Carefully add the diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring them into the mixture. Ensure they are submerged in the broth for even cooking.
- Add the pre-cooked ground beef, stirring it into the mixture. Browning the beef separately ensures it has a flavorful, caramelized exterior before combining it with the other ingredients.
Simmering to Perfection
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the fideo and potatoes to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size of your potato cubes; the goal is to have the potatoes tender but not falling apart.
- Check the mixture occasionally, stirring gently to prevent the fideo from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. If the mixture seems too thick or begins to stick, add a bit more water as needed to maintain a soupy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste once the potatoes are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle the fideo with ground beef and potatoes into bowls for a hearty, comforting meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
- Serve with warm tortillas on the side for an authentic touch. Tortillas are perfect for dipping into the savory broth and scooping up bites of the pasta, potatoes, and beef.
Tips for Perfect Fideo with Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Toasting the Fideo: Browning the fideo gives it a delicious nutty flavor, but be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning. A light golden color is what you’re aiming for.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the dish toward the end of cooking and adjust the salt if needed. The bouillon adds saltiness, so add salt cautiously.
- Customize the Vegetables: While this recipe calls for potatoes, tomatoes, and onions, feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Consistency Preference: If you prefer a thicker consistency, allow the dish to cook a bit longer uncovered, reducing the liquid. For a soupier consistency, add extra water or broth while simmering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Fideo pasta is traditional in this dish, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute it with vermicelli or even broken-up spaghetti noodles. Just be sure to toast them similarly for that signature flavor.
How do I store leftover fideo?
Store any leftover fideo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water if needed to restore the consistency.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and use vegetable bouillon cubes instead of chicken-flavored ones. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make it heartier.
What can I serve alongside fideo?
Fideo with ground beef and potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad, guacamole, or a scoop of refried beans. Warm tortillas are a must!
Is this dish spicy?
This fideo recipe is not spicy as written. However, if you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of chili powder, or serve it with hot sauce on the side for extra spice.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic Mexican fideo recipe with ground beef and potatoes. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for any day of the week. With its savory broth, tender potatoes, and toasted pasta, each bite is a delicious reminder of the heart and soul of Mexican home cooking.