Fideo with Ground Beef, Potatoes, and Beans
This classic comfort dish combines tender fideo noodles, savory ground beef, and hearty beans for a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Adding potatoes gives it a delightful twist, creating a one-pot wonder perfect for weeknight dinners. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 (5-ounce) bag or box of fideo (use a 7-ounce package if preferred)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 medium potato, chopped (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups pinto beans, freshly cooked or canned (drained and rinsed)
Toasting the Fideo
Toasting the fideo noodles is the first step in building flavor:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the fideo and stir frequently to toast the noodles evenly. Toast until the noodles are golden brown and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Once toasted, remove the fideo from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Ground beef provides the savory base for this dish:
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef.
- Cook over medium heat, using a spatula to break the meat into small crumbles.
- Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease if needed.
Combining Ingredients
Once the beef is ready, it’s time to bring all the flavors together:
- Stir the tomato sauce into the cooked beef.
- Add the onion powder, garlic powder, water, and chicken stock. Mix well to combine.
Adding the Fideo and Potatoes
Now it’s time to reintroduce the toasted noodles:
- Stir the reserved fideo into the skillet, ensuring it’s well-coated with the liquid.
- If you’re adding potatoes, include them at this stage. The liquid will help them soften as they cook.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to retain moisture, and simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Check occasionally to ensure the noodles and potatoes are cooking evenly. Add more water or chicken stock if needed to prevent the dish from drying out.
Adding the Beans
For an extra dose of heartiness:
- Once the fideo and potatoes are tender, stir in the pinto beans.
- Let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the beans and allow the flavors to meld.
Final Seasoning
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning:
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together one last time before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:
- Serve it as a stand-alone meal with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced onions for added flavor.
- Pair it with warm tortillas for a more filling meal.
- Top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for extra richness and brightness.
Tips for Perfect Fideo
- Choose Your Fideo: Traditional fideo noodles are short and thin, but you can use broken vermicelli if fideo isn’t available.
- Control the Spice: Add a pinch of chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you want a spicier version.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly cooked pinto beans provide better texture, but canned beans are a quick and convenient alternative.
- Customize the Potatoes: Feel free to use sweet potatoes for a unique flavor twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or cooked lentils, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
How do I prevent the fideo from getting mushy?
Toasting the fideo helps retain its texture during cooking. Also, avoid overcooking the noodles; check for doneness after 10 minutes of simmering.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or stock to restore its consistency.
What other beans can I use?
Black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas work well as substitutes for pinto beans.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a little liquid if needed.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, you can add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
This Fideo with Ground Beef, Potatoes, and Beans is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for a busy weeknight, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!