Mexican potatoes

Mexican potatoes combine tender, cubed potatoes cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and chili powder. Topped with melted Parmesan and fresh coriander, this dish delivers a burst of flavour perfect for any meal.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

6 potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp chili powder
2 cans canned tomatoes
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup coriander leaves

Mexican Potatoes are a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy a culinary fusion between classic potato dishes and vibrant Mexican spices. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this recipe combines tender potatoes with rich tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a hint of chili heat. By following the steps below, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that's both easy to make and packed with robust flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes. Once peeled, cut them into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.

2. Cook the Potatoes:
- Place a large pot filled with water over high heat and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the cubed potatoes.
- Reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes or until they are tender but not falling apart. Use a fork to check doneness.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and set aside.

3. Prepare the Seasoning and Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and combined with the oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.

4. Cook with Tomatoes:
- Pour in the two cans of canned tomatoes (including the juice) into the skillet.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors combine.

5. Combine Potatoes with Sauce:
- Add the cooked and drained potatoes into the skillet with the tomato mixture.
- Gently stir to ensure all the potato cubes are coated evenly with the sauce.
- Let the mixture cook together for an additional 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the potatoes to absorb some of the flavors.

6. Add Cheese and Coriander:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes.
- Stir gently to incorporate the cheese, allowing it to melt into the tomato sauce and coat the potatoes.

7. Finish and Serve:
- Once the cheese is fully melted and the potatoes are well-coated, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of freshly chopped coriander leaves over the top for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Give a final gentle stir to combine.

8. Serve:
- Serve the Mexican potatoes hot as a delicious side dish or a main course. Enjoy!

Once you've followed these steps, you'll have a pan of delicious Mexican Potatoes ready to delight your taste buds. The combination of tender potatoes, zesty tomatoes, and the kick of chili powder create an irresistible dish. Garnishing with fresh coriander not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Enjoy these flavorful potatoes as a savory side or a hearty main dish.

Mexican potatoes FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the potatoes?

Boil the cubed potatoes for about 10-12 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart. Use a fork to check for doneness.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan cheese with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How should I store leftover Mexican potatoes?

Store leftover Mexican potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What pan size is ideal for this recipe?

A large skillet or frying pan, ideally around 12 inches in diameter, works best for this recipe to accommodate all the ingredients and ensure even cooking.

How can I adjust the spice level of the dish?

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the chili powder or add additional ingredients like jalapeños for more heat. You can also add sour cream as a cooling garnish when serving.

Tips:

- Choose the right potatoes: For an optimal texture, use waxy or all-purpose potatoes. They hold their shape better while cooking.

- Uniform cuts: Cutting the potatoes into even pieces ensures they cook evenly. Aim for similar-sized chunks for the best results.

- Preheat ingredients: Allowing the olive oil and butter to heat properly before adding garlic and spices releases maximum flavor from the ingredients.

- Layering flavors: Add the garlic and chili powder before the tomatoes to allow the spices to infuse the oil, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

- Grate your own cheese: For better melting and flavor, grate parmesan cheese from a block instead of using pre-grated cheese.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 5g
Fat 11g

Mexican potatoes