Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe
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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting textures, then this Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe is just what you need. Imagine perfectly crisp potato wedges dusted with smoky spices, crowned with savory, tender taco-seasoned beef, and finished with fresh, vibrant toppings that dance on your taste buds. It’s a fantastic way to turn simple, everyday ingredients into a festive meal that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether for a family dinner or sharing with friends, this recipe brings that irresistible Mexican-inspired zest right to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe lies in how straightforward but powerful each ingredient is. Every spice and fresh element plays a key role in crafting that authentic, layered flavor, while the potatoes provide the perfect crispy base to carry it all.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a deep, smoky undertone that’s crucial for that southwestern flair.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth, a true Mexican staple.
- Garlic powder: Provides that essential punch of savory garlic without overpowering.
- Chili powder (optional): Offers a gentle heat and subtle complexity if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Olive oil: Ensures the potato wedges crisp beautifully in the oven.
- Medium to large potatoes: Washed with skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
- Sea salt: Simple yet fundamental to lifting all flavors in the dish.
- Cooking oil: For sautéing the taco meat perfectly.
- Brown onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the taco meat.
- Red bell pepper: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic that brightens and complements the spices.
- Ground beef mince: The hearty protein base for the taco topping.
- Beef broth or stock: Keeps the meat juicy and adds savory richness.
- Salt and pepper: To season just right according to your taste.
- Optional toppings such as green onion/scallions, fresh coriander, sour cream, tomato salsa, sweet chili sauce, avocado, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese: Finish the dish perfectly and add freshness, creaminess, and extra zing.
How to Make Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Potato Wedges
Start by preheating your oven to 400℉ (200°C), and lightly grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking. Cutting the potatoes into wedges with their skins on not only keeps them rustic but also helps achieve the perfect crispy exterior while the inside stays fluffy. Toss these wedges generously with a spice blend of smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, optional chili powder, and olive oil—this mixture is the flavor base that makes the wedges unforgettable.
Step 2: Baking the Wedges
Spread the coated wedges out in a single layer on your baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle sea salt over them, then slide the tray into the oven for about 45 minutes. During this time, the wedges will transform into beautifully golden, tender pieces, with crispy edges that invite you to grab one immediately. This step sets the stage perfectly for the meat topping.
Step 3: Cooking the Taco Meat
While your wedges bake, heat some cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced brown onion and red bell pepper until the onion turns translucent and sweet, then add crushed garlic for an aromatic boost. Adding the ground beef along with smoked paprika and cumin gives the meat its distinctive taco character. Break the meat up as it browns to ensure every bite is tender and well-seasoned. Finally, pour in beef broth or stock to keep everything juicy and let it simmer briefly before seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Assembling the Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe
Once your wedges are delightfully crisp and the meat is bubbling with flavor, it’s time for the fun part. Spoon the seasoned taco beef generously over the baked potato wedges, allowing the juices to mingle. This combination of textures and tastes creates a harmony that’s undeniably satisfying and full of character. Add your favorite toppings to elevate the dish even further—there’s no limit to your creativity here.
How to Serve Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness and contrast make all the difference in this layered dish. Finely sliced green onions and chopped coriander bring a pop of color and herbal brightness that lightens each bite. A dollop of sour cream adds just the right touch of cool creaminess that balances the spices perfectly. Finishing with diced avocado or shredded cheese introduces richness that makes every forkful irresistibly indulgent.
Side Dishes
This Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe shines as a hearty, stand-alone dish, but you can complement it beautifully with simple side dishes like a crisp garden salad or a tangy slaw. A bowl of fresh tomato salsa or a scoop of sweet chili sauce on the side can add extra dimension for those who love a bit of zing or sweetness alongside their savory meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual, convivial vibe, serve the wedges on a large platter, letting everyone pile on their favorite toppings. Alternatively, for a more composed presentation, plate individual servings with neat dollops of sour cream and avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a wedge of lime to squeeze over. You could also turn this into a fun taco night by wrapping the beef and wedges in warm tortillas with your toppings, bringing a fresh twist to your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, allow the Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe to cool completely before storing. Transfer the wedges and taco meat separately into airtight containers to help maintain texture and flavor. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to 3 days, making your next meal an easy and delicious repeat.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to plan ahead. Place the cooled potato wedges and cooked taco meat in separate freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent sogginess. Frozen portions can last up to 2 months, giving you a reliable, flavorful meal whenever time is tight.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat the wedges in the oven at 350℉ (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Warm the taco meat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. Assemble everything fresh and add any toppings as you would serve initially—the flavors will be just as vibrant the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! Russet potatoes are ideal for crispy wedges due to their starch content, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well. Just remember that waxier potatoes may yield a softer wedge, so adjust your baking time accordingly to get the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the ground beef for plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or seasoned lentils. Just keep the spices and toppings the same to retain that exciting Mexican flavor profile.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe is mild by default, but the optional chili powder can add a gentle kick. You can easily adjust the heat by increasing or omitting the chili powder, or by adding fresh jalapeños or hot sauce when serving.
Can I prepare the wedges and taco meat in advance?
You can prepare both components separately ahead of time. Just keep everything refrigerated and warm the wedges in the oven before serving. Add taco meat warm and fresh to keep the textures inviting and delicious.
What toppings would you recommend for kids?
Kids usually love simple and familiar toppings. Try mild shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or avocado. Leaving out spicy elements or strong flavors can make this dish a big hit at your family table.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe is one of those gems that feels like a comforting hug wrapped in bold, vibrant flavors. It’s perfect any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special but simple. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone asks for again and again!
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Mexican Beef Wedges Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Mexican Beef Wedges are a delicious twist on classic potato wedges, baked to crispy perfection and topped with flavorful seasoned ground beef. Enhanced with smoky spices and complemented by fresh toppings like avocado, sour cream, and salsa, this hearty dish is perfect for a family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Wedges:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 medium scrubbed and washed potatoes or 5 large, skin on
- 2 pinches sea salt
Taco Meat:
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 medium brown onion, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 pound ground beef mince
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ cup beef broth or stock (or 1/4 cup water mixed with 1 teaspoon Vegeta or beef stock powder)
- 1 pinch salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve (Optional):
- 2 stems green onion/scallions, finely sliced
- ¼ cup fresh coriander, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Tomato salsa or sweet chili sauce
- 1 avocado, peeled and diced
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Mexican cheese blend, etc.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Prepare Potato Wedges: On a chopping board, cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half again, and then each piece in half once more to create 8 wedges per potato. Arrange the wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Season Wedges: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, optional chili powder, and olive oil. Pour this seasoning mix over the potato wedges, tossing them well with your hands to ensure even coating.
- Bake Wedges: Season the wedges with sea salt and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender inside and crisp on the outside.
- Cook Taco Meat: While the wedges bake, heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, frying until the onion is translucent. Add the crushed garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef mince along with smoked paprika and ground cumin. Break up the meat with a spatula while cooking, mixing spices thoroughly, and cook until the beef is browned.
- Simmer Meat: Pour in the beef broth or stock and allow it to simmer for another minute. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Serve: Once the wedges are baked, spoon the seasoned taco meat evenly over the wedges. Serve immediately with optional toppings such as sliced green onions, fresh coriander, sour cream, tomato salsa, sweet chili sauce, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Notes
- Leave the skin on the potatoes for extra texture and nutrients.
- Adjust chili powder amount to control how spicy the wedges are.
- For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Use fresh herbs and toppings to add brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Make sure to toss the wedges well with seasoning to ensure even flavor distribution.
- You can prepare the taco meat in advance and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican