Fideo with Potatoes and Ground Beef: A Hearty, Comforting One-Pot Meal
Fideo with potatoes and ground beef is a deeply comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a warm, filling meal. Popular in many households for its affordability and ease, this recipe is often associated with home cooking, family dinners, and flavors that feel familiar and reassuring. It is the kind of meal that satisfies both hunger and nostalgia, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and cozy evenings alike.
Fideo pasta, known for its short, thin strands, cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. When combined with tender potatoes and savory ground beef, it transforms into a rich, stew-like dish that feels substantial without being heavy. Everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to build naturally and making cleanup easy.
This dish is especially loved for its versatility. Ingredients can be adjusted based on what is available, and seasoning can be kept mild or made more bold depending on preference. Despite its simplicity, the result is flavorful, comforting, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fideo pasta
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups beef or chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the fideo pasta to the pot and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
Stir in the diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the broth and stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta and potatoes are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
The toasting step is an important part of this recipe. Lightly browning the fideo pasta before adding liquid enhances its flavor and helps it hold its shape during cooking. This small step adds depth and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Potatoes play a key role in this dish by adding body and heartiness. As they cook, they absorb the seasoned broth while releasing starch, naturally thickening the dish. Cutting the potatoes into small, even pieces ensures they cook at the same rate as the pasta.
Ground beef brings richness and savory flavor, making the dish filling and satisfying. Using lean beef keeps the dish balanced, but any ground meat can be substituted. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version, while still providing protein and flavor.
The seasoning in this recipe is simple but effective. Cumin and paprika add warmth and subtle earthiness without overpowering the other ingredients. The diced tomatoes contribute acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the beef and broth.
Fideo with potatoes and ground beef is often served as a complete meal on its own. However, it pairs nicely with warm tortillas, crusty bread, or a simple side salad. These additions help round out the meal while keeping preparation minimal.
This dish is especially well suited for families. It is affordable, filling, and generally enjoyed by all ages. The soft texture of the pasta and potatoes makes it approachable, while the savory broth keeps it flavorful.
Leftovers store well and are often even better the next day. As the dish rests, the flavors continue to meld, creating a deeper taste. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.
Fideo with potatoes and ground beef is more than just a simple meal. It represents comfort, tradition, and the beauty of straightforward cooking. It shows how everyday ingredients can come together to create something warm, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.
This recipe is a reminder that great meals do not need to be complicated. With one pot and a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels homemade and comforting every time. Whether you grew up eating fideo or are discovering it for the first time, this version is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.