There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet checks all the boxes. This easy, one-pan recipe combines lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and bold spices into a wholesome dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
What’s even better? It’s customizable, quick to make, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this skillet meal will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein, healthy carbs, and optional veggies for a complete meal.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses kitchen staples you probably already have.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe ideal for busy nights.
- Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need for this recipe:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb | Provides a rich, savory flavor |
| Sweet potatoes | 2 medium | Peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Enhances the dish’s aroma |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
Spices and Seasonings
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | Adds warmth and earthiness |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Sweet or smoked, depending on taste |
| Chili powder | ½ tsp | Provides a mild kick |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Balances and enhances flavors |
Optional Add-Ins
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef broth or water | Up to 1 cup | Helps cook and soften the potatoes |
| Bell pepper | 1, diced | Adds crunch and color |
| Black beans | 1 can (rinsed) | Boosts protein and fiber |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | For a gooey, cheesy finish |
Garnish
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh cilantro/parsley | For garnish | Adds freshness and a pop of color |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using bell peppers or other add-ins, prepare those as well.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices
- Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes.
- Sprinkle cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to ensure the potatoes and beef are evenly coated with the spices.
5. Cook Until Tender
- If the skillet seems dry or the sweet potatoes are not softening, add up to 1 cup of beef broth or water.
- Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Optional Ingredients
- If using bell peppers or black beans, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Finish with Cheese and Garnish
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top (if using). Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Uniform cubes ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more chili powder or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use a Large Skillet: A spacious skillet allows everything to cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Don’t Overcook: Check the sweet potatoes often; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Customize Freely: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or coleslaw.
- Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Tortilla Chips: Scoop the skillet mixture with tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on optional ingredients and serving sizes.
Variations of Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and a dash of hot sauce for a Southwestern twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu.
- Mediterranean Flair: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Breakfast Skillet: Crack a few eggs over the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover until the eggs are set.
FAQs About Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the skillet as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
You can substitute regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even parsnips.
4. How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking?
Make sure there’s enough liquid in the skillet and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add extra chili powder, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for more heat.
6. What type of ground beef works best?
Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for a balance of flavor and reduced fat.
Conclusion: Try This Hearty Skillet Recipe Today!
Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect solution for a nutritious, delicious, and satisfying meal. With its bold spices, tender sweet potatoes, and customizable options, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder
A warm, flavorful, and satisfying one-pan meal, Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet combines tender sweet potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and bold spices for a quick and nutritious dinner. This easy, customizable recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a hearty and wholesome meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (½-inch pieces)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Up to 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Peel and cube sweet potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Prepare optional ingredients like bell peppers or beans, if using.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices:
- Stir in cubed sweet potatoes.
- Sprinkle with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the potatoes and beef evenly.
- Cook Until Tender:
- If the skillet seems dry, add up to 1 cup of beef broth or water to help the sweet potatoes cook.
- Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate Optional Ingredients:
- Add diced bell pepper or black beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
- Finish with Cheese and Garnish:
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top (if using).
- Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust spices to taste—add more chili powder or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- A large skillet prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking.