Mexican Hash: Quick & Flavorful Lunch in One Pan

Chef Emma’s tip: Simple meals don’t have to be boring.
I still remember cooking with my grandmother Julia on sunny afternoons—she loved dishes that packed big flavor with minimal fuss. That’s where this Mexican Hash comes in: it’s a vibrant, quick, and flavorful lunch that comes together in just one pan. Perfect for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends, it’s comforting, healthy, and endlessly customizable.

Unlike other complicated lunches, this one hits all the marks—easy cleanup, bold flavor, and enough versatility to please even picky eaters. Inspired by classic Mexican dishes like Picadillo, this hash is my go-to for a hearty midday meal that doesn’t require a mountain of prep.

If you’re curious about the roots of this dish, check out this Traditional Picadillo Recipe to understand how Mexican Hash evolved from traditional stews. Also, to boost flavor and health, we’ll be using spices like cumin, which offer amazing benefits. Here’s a great read on the Health Benefits of Cumin.

What Is Mexican Hash?

Mexican Hash is a delicious, rustic, one-pan meal typically made with diced potatoes, ground meat (or chorizo), vegetables, and spices. It’s a comfort food classic with Mexican flair, balancing warmth, heat, and savory textures in one satisfying skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Quick & Flavorful Recipe

• Fast to make – ready in under 30 minutes
• One-pan cleanup – fewer dishes, less hassle
• Endlessly customizable – go spicy, mild, veggie, or protein-rich
• Perfect for meal prep – stores and reheats beautifully
• Packed with flavor – every bite hits with Mexican-inspired zest

Ingredients for the Best Mexican Hash

Here’s what you’ll need:

Protein Options

• Ground beef or turkey
• Mexican chorizo (learn how to make homemade chorizo)
• Plant-based crumbles (for vegetarians)

Veggies

• Russet or red potatoes (cubed)
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Onion (white or red)
• Corn kernels (optional)
• Jalapeños (optional, for heat)

Spices & Flavorings

• Ground cumin
• Paprika or chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro and lime juice

Toppings

• Avocado slices
• Crumbled cotija or cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Salsa or hot sauce

How to Make Mexican Hash in One Pan

This is where the magic happens!

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Dice all your vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking.
• If using meat, brown and drain it first to avoid sogginess later.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

• Heat oil in a large skillet.
• Add cubed potatoes and cook until golden and tender (8–10 mins).

Step 3: Add Protein & Veggies

• Stir in meat or plant-based crumbles.
• Add peppers, onions, corn, and jalapeños.
• Cook until soft and slightly caramelized (5–7 mins).

Step 4: Season Well

• Sprinkle in your spices.
• Stir to coat evenly—let everything marry together for another 3 minutes.

Step 5: Top and Serve

• Finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro.
• Add toppings to taste!

Health Benefits of Mexican Hash

Mexican Hash can be healthy and hearty, especially when made with:

• Lean ground meats or meat alternatives
• Olive oil instead of lard
• Extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach
• Reduced cheese or dairy-free alternatives

The use of spices like cumin aids digestion and adds depth without sodium overload. It’s a great way to sneak in nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Creative Variations

Breakfast Mexican Hash

• Add scrambled or fried eggs on top.
• Serve with tortillas for a breakfast taco vibe.

Vegetarian Mexican Hash

• Use black beans, tofu, or tempeh for protein.
• Add zucchini, kale, or spinach.

Spicy Mexican Hash

• Add chipotle peppers or adobo sauce.
• Use hot Mexican chorizo.

What to Serve with Mexican Hash

Pair your midday hash with:

• Warm corn tortillas or flour tortillas
• A light side salad
• A glass of iced hibiscus tea or agua fresca

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Try this with our Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken for more inspiration!

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips for Mexican Hash

One of the best things about Mexican Hash is how well it stores and reheats—making it a fantastic option for meal prep, busy weekdays, or leftovers the whole family will look forward to. Here’s how to handle your hash like a pro:

Mexican Hash: Quick & Flavorful Lunch in One Pan

This vibrant one-pan Mexican Hash is a quick, satisfying lunch packed with crispy potatoes, juicy ground meat (or plant-based alternative), veggies, and bold spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or family dinners.

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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium russet or red potatoes diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef turkey, or plant-based crumbles
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 small onion chopped
• ½ cup corn kernels optional
• 1 jalapeño minced (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika or chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of ½ lime
• Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
• Toppings optional:
• Avocado slices
• Crumbled cotija or cheddar cheese
• Salsa or hot sauce
• Sour cream

Equipment

• – Large nonstick skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• – Knife and cutting board

Method

 

1. Prep Ingredients:
2. Dice potatoes and vegetables into small, even pieces. Brown ground meat (if using) and drain excess fat.
3. Cook Potatoes:
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
5. Add Protein & Veggies:
6. Stir in ground meat or crumbles, bell pepper, onion, corn, and jalapeño. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are softened and everything begins to caramelize.
7. Season:
8. Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat and let cook another 3 minutes for flavors to meld.
9. Finish & Serve:
10. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve hot. Add toppings of choice like avocado, salsa, or cheese.

Notes

– Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with black beans, lentils, or tofu.
– Spice Level: Adjust jalapeño or chili powder to taste.
– Oven Method: Roast potatoes and veggies at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, then mix with cooked meat and spices.
– Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for up to 2 months.
– Reheat: Warm in skillet with a splash of broth or olive oil to restore crispiness.

🧺 Refrigerate

Once your Mexican Hash has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. This helps preserve its flavor and texture while keeping everything safe to eat. You can safely store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For optimal freshness, consider dividing the hash into individual portions, which makes it easy to grab-and-go for quick lunches.

💡 Tip: Use glass containers to avoid staining from spices and for easy reheating.

❄️ Freeze

Want to keep your Mexican Hash around even longer? No problem! This dish freezes beautifully. To freeze:

• Let the hash cool completely.
• Portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label them with the date to keep track.

Mexican Hash will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it overnight in the fridge. This gradual thaw helps maintain texture and keeps everything tasting freshly made.

💡 Bonus Tip: Freeze flat in bags to save space and speed up thawing.

🔥 Reheat

Reheating is simple, and you have a couple of great options:

• Skillet Method (Best for texture): Add a small splash of water, broth, or olive oil to a pan. Heat the hash over medium until warmed through. This brings back the crispy edges and keeps everything moist.
• Microwave Method (Quick & easy): Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Again, add a spoonful of liquid if it seems dry.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a fresh topping—like avocado, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of cheese—after reheating to revive flavor and presentation.

FAQs About Mexican Hash

Can I make Mexican Hash ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, Mexican Hash is one of the best dishes for meal prep. Once cooked, it stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days and can also be frozen in individual portions. Whether you’re prepping weekday lunches or stocking your freezer for busy weeks, this dish is a reliable go-to. Plus, the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier.

What are the best meat alternatives for this recipe?

If you’re looking for a meatless version, there are plenty of delicious options. Popular plant-based alternatives include:

• Black beans – hearty and packed with protein
• Lentils – perfect for a fiber-rich option
• Tofu or tempeh – great for soaking up all those spices
• Meat substitutes like Beyond Meat or Impossible – mimic traditional ground beef with impressive flavor and texture

These alternatives pair wonderfully with the veggies and spices in Mexican Hash, making it a satisfying dish for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Is Mexican Hash always spicy?

Not necessarily! The spice level is entirely up to you. While ingredients like jalapeños, Mexican chorizo, or chipotle peppers in adobo can add a fiery kick, you can easily tone it down for milder palates. Just skip the hot elements or replace them with sweet bell peppers for the same vibrant flavor minus the heat.

🔥 Pro Tip: Serve hot sauce or chopped chilies on the side so everyone can adjust to their own spice preference.

Can I cook Mexican Hash in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can! If you prefer roasting, here’s how:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss diced potatoes and vegetables in olive oil and seasonings.
• Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Add cooked meat or plant-based protein at the end and mix everything together.

This method results in a crispy texture and is great if you’re preparing large batches.

What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?

Both russet and red potatoes are excellent choices, but they offer slightly different results:

• Russets – crisp up nicely and hold their shape well, perfect for a more textured bite.
• Red potatoes – offer a smoother, creamier texture and don’t dry out as easily.

🥔 Tip: No matter which type you choose, be sure to dice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Final Thoughts: Why Mexican Hash Is Your Midday Hero

Mexican Hash is the ultimate lunch upgrade. It’s simple, quick, and layered with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or cooking for one, this one-pan wonder delivers taste and ease every single time. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out the fridge and still enjoy a delicious, balanced meal.

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