Name: Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner); 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes; 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; ½ cup beef broth or water; Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, green onions, hot sauce

Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet: Craving a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy one-pan meal? Look no further! This vibrant dish is a symphony of savory ground beef, subtly sweet sweet potatoes, and a medley of complementary spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget slaving over multiple pots and pans; this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

While the exact origins of combining ground beef and sweet potatoes in a skillet are difficult to pinpoint, the concept draws inspiration from various culinary traditions. Sweet potatoes, native to Central and South America, have been a staple food for centuries. Their versatility lends itself beautifully to both sweet and savory applications. Ground beef, a readily available and affordable protein source, provides a satisfying richness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the potatoes. This combination reflects a modern approach to cooking, prioritizing convenience and nutritional value without sacrificing taste.

People adore this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet for its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. It's a fantastic weeknight dinner option, ready in under 30 minutes, and packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The slightly caramelized sweet potatoes offer a delightful textural contrast to the savory ground beef, creating a truly satisfying culinary experience. Plus, it's easily customizable! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, spices, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a personalized touch. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe!

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup beef broth or water
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, green onions, hot sauce

Preparing the Ground Beef and Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I like to use a cast-iron skillet for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly, but any large skillet will work. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the ground beef.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy skillet!
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma of the onions and garlic cooking together is just heavenly!

Adding the Vegetables and Spices

Add the diced sweet potato and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potato is slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the sweet potato to have a little bit of give when you poke it with a fork.
Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure everything is well combined. The spices will really start to bloom and release their flavors at this point.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don't be afraid to season generously! Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Simmering the Skillet

Pour in the beef broth or water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender. The liquid will help the sweet potato cook through and create a nice, saucy consistency.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the skillet every few minutes to make sure the bottom isn't burning. If it seems like it's getting too dry, add a little more broth or water.
Once the sweet potato is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Give it a final stir and check the seasoning one last time.

Serving and Topping

Serve the ground beef sweet potato skillet hot. This dish is delicious on its own, but it's even better with toppings!
Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, green onions, hot sauce. I personally love adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. The cool sour cream contrasts nicely with the warm skillet, and the cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note.

Tips and Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you're sensitive to heat, you can omit it altogether. If you like things really spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes as well.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this skillet. Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach would all be great additions. Just add them along with the sweet potato and bell pepper.
Meat: You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Beans: If you don't have black beans on hand, you can use kidney beans or pinto beans instead.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
Make it Vegan: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Also, skip the cheese and sour cream toppings.
Meal Prep: This skillet is perfect for meal prepping. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can also freeze this skillet for longer storage. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this skillet over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Or, simply enjoy it on its own with a side of cornbread.
Sweet Potato Variety: While I typically use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, you can experiment with other varieties like Japanese sweet potatoes (with their purple skin and white flesh) or even regular potatoes if you're in a pinch. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type of potato you use.
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes. You can also use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Beef Broth Substitute: If you don't have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. You can also use water with a bouillon cube.
Adding Greens: For an extra boost of nutrients, stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt down quickly.
Citrus Zest: A little bit of lime or orange zest can add a bright, fresh flavor to this skillet. Stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of this skillet. Dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary would all be delicious additions. Add them along with the other spices.
Cheese: If you're not a fan of cheddar cheese, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any other cheese that melts well.
Avocado: For a creamier texture, mash the avocado before adding it to the skillet. You can also add a dollop of guacamole.
Hot Sauce: If you like things really spicy, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Sriracha, Tabasco, or Cholula would all be great choices.
Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to this skillet. It's great for soaking up all the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and amounts used.

Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
Protein: 30-40 grams
Fat: 20-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet!

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, the combination of savory ground beef, the subtle sweetness of the sweet potatoes, and the perfectly balanced spices creates a dish that's both comforting and exciting. It's quick, it's easy, and it's packed with nutrients, making it a winner on all fronts. If you're looking for a recipe that delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen, then trust me, this is it. You absolutely *need* to try this. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your toppings and serving suggestions. For a complete meal, serve it as is, maybe with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness. If you're watching your carbs, enjoy it straight from the skillet. Alternatively, you can transform this skillet into something completely different. Spoon it into lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing lunch. Or, use it as a filling for tacos or burritos for a fun and flavorful twist on Mexican night. For a heartier meal, serve it over quinoa or brown rice. You could even top it with a fried egg for a delicious and satisfying breakfast-for-dinner option! And don't be afraid to experiment with the ingredients! If you're not a fan of sweet potatoes, butternut squash or even regular potatoes work beautifully. Add a can of black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. A diced bell pepper or some chopped spinach will boost the veggie content. A little bit of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce can kick up the heat. The possibilities are endless! I truly believe that this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet will become a staple in your recipe rotation. It's the kind of dish that everyone in the family will love, and it's so easy to customize to suit your individual tastes and preferences. It's also a fantastic way to use up leftover ground beef or sweet potatoes, making it a budget-friendly option as well. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience a truly delicious and satisfying meal. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you've tried this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and what your family's reaction was. I'm always eager to hear your feedback and learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear about your success with this recipe!