Fideo with potatoes and ground beef

Fideo with Potatoes and Ground Beef is a comforting, budget-friendly Mexican-inspired dish made with toasted noodles, seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich tomato broth. It’s a hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and loved by both kids and adults.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 package (7 oz) fideo noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium tomatoes, blended or finely diced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Fideo

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the fideo noodles.
3. Stir frequently until the noodles turn golden brown, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Remove the noodles and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. In the same skillet, add the ground beef.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

1. Add the diced potatoes.
2. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Broth

1. Add the blended tomatoes and tomato sauce.
2. Pour in the beef broth.
3. Return the toasted fideo noodles to the pot.
4. Stir everything together.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook until the noodles are tender and the potatoes are soft.

Step 6: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
3. Serve hot with warm tortillas, avocado slices, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Fideo

• Toasting the noodles first adds rich, nutty flavor.
• Cut potatoes into small cubes so they cook evenly.
• Add peas, carrots, or corn for extra vegetables.
• For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If the mixture becomes too thick, stir in a little extra broth.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
• Not recommended for freezing, as the noodles may become overly soft.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 3g