This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, all made in just one pan. The richness of seasoned beef pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a wholesome and filling dish. The addition of cheese melts into the mixture, adding a creamy and indulgent touch that makes every bite irresistible.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can add black beans for extra protein, swap in different cheeses for a unique flavor twist, or even make it spicier with jalapeños or cayenne. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this simple and satisfying skillet meal is guaranteed to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- While the beef is cooking, peel and cube the sweet potatoes into ½inch pieces.
- Once the beef is browned, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet.
- Sprinkle cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- If the sweet potatoes are not softening or the skillet seems dry, add up to 1 cup of beef broth or water. Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- If using bell peppers or black beans, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, remove the lid. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let any excess moisture evaporate.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – A One-Pan Wonder
Cooking delicious and nutritious meals doesn’t have to be complicated. The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a perfect example of a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s packed with protein, healthy carbs, and vibrant flavors, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
This dish brings together the savory richness of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a well balanced and satisfying meal. The addition of spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder enhances the overall taste profile, giving it a warm and slightly smoky depth. Optional ingredients like bell peppers, black beans, and shredded cheese can be incorporated to add more texture and flavor variations.
Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, protein-rich dinner or simply want to switch up your weekly meal routine, this skillet meal is guaranteed to be a hit. Best of all, it’s made in just one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This dish is designed for efficiency. With a total cook time of 30 minutes, it’s an excellent go to recipe for those evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The one pan aspect means fewer dishes and a much easier cleanup.
2. Nutritious and Balanced
Every ingredient in this skillet contributes to a well rounded meal:
- Ground beef provides high quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
- Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making them a healthier alternative to regular potatoes.
- Spices like cumin and paprika not only add depth of flavor but also have anti inflammatory properties.
- Optional add-ins like black beans and bell peppers boost fiber and vitamin content, making the meal even healthier.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. Want a low-carb version? Swap the sweet potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini. Looking for a spicier kick? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Prefer a vegetarian version? Replace the beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. The possibilities are endless!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love prepping meals ahead of time, this dish is a great addition to your rotation. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier when reheated. You can also make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for a quick grab-and-go meal option.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The combination of seasoned ground beef and sweet potatoes creates a sweet and savory contrast that’s both comforting and satisfying. The beef is juicy and rich, while the sweet potatoes add a soft, slightly creamy texture. When cooked together in a single pan, the ingredients absorb each other’s flavors, resulting in a cohesive and well-balanced dish.
The spices elevate the meal by adding subtle layers of warmth and depth. Paprika and chili powder bring a smoky, slightly spicy touch, while cumin enhances the earthy undertones. If you decide to add cheese, it melts beautifully over the dish, creating a deliciously creamy finish.
For added crunch and freshness, garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. These small additions help balance the richness of the beef and bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Best Ways to Serve This Dish
The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is incredibly versatile, making it a standalone meal or a great addition to other dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As is – Serve it straight from the skillet for a warm, hearty meal.
- With rice or quinoa – Add a scoop of brown rice or quinoa to make it even more filling.
- In tortillas – Use this mixture as a flavorful taco or burrito filling.
- With eggs – Top it with a fried or poached egg for a delicious breakfast twist.
- Topped with avocado or sour cream – These toppings add creaminess and extra flavor.
Common Questions About This Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the classic choice, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian version.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover skillet meal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes or microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients used (including seasonings and broth) are free from gluten contamination. Always check labels if you have specific dietary concerns.
4. Can I make it spicier?
Of course! If you love heat, you can add:
- Diced jalapeños
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Extra chili powder
- A few dashes of hot sauce
5. Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s a fantastic meal prep option that can be portioned out for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Skillet Recipe for Any Occasion
The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is one of those meals that checks all the boxes: quick, easy, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this dish is a fantastic choice.
With its simple ingredients, customizable variations, and easy cleanup, it’s no wonder why this recipe is a favorite among home cooks. Plus, its naturally gluten-free and protein-rich profile makes it an excellent option for those looking for a healthy, balanced meal.
So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give this one-pan wonder a try. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare, and your taste buds will thank you for the delicious combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.