This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, delicious, and nutritious 30-minute meal. With a balance of seasoned ground beef, sweet potatoes, and optional veggies or beans, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pan wonder is versatile and packed with flavor, making it an instant family favorite.

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
½ tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

1 cup beef broth or water (if needed)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
While the beef cooks, peel and cube sweet potatoes into ½-inch pieces.
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet once the beef is browned.
Season the mixture with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
If the sweet potatoes are not softening or the skillet becomes dry, add up to 1 cup of beef broth or water. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using bell peppers or black beans, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, uncover the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover until melted.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrients

Calories: 430 kcal per serving
Serving Size: 4 servings
Carbohydrates: Rich in fiber from sweet potatoes and optional beans
Protein: High-quality protein from lean ground beef
Vitamins: Vitamin A from sweet potatoes, immune-boosting Vitamin C
Iron: Supports blood health from beef
Fat: Healthy fats balanced with olive oil and optional cheese

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful skillet meal, perfect for a satisfying and quick dinner!

A Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Meal

This skillet meal is a perfect example of how simplicity can lead to a nutritionally balanced dish. It offers:

High-Quality Protein: Lean ground beef provides a generous dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Complex Carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and natural sugars, offering a healthier carb option that supports sustained energy levels.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, which promotes good vision and immune function, while the beef provides iron and zinc, crucial for healthy blood circulation and a strong immune system.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while optional cheese contributes richness and flavor.

This combination ensures that you’re serving a well-rounded meal that satisfies hunger while nourishing the body.

Quick and Convenient for Busy Weeknights

Life can be hectic, but this skillet meal is here to save the day. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes and minimal prep required, it’s ideal for those evenings when time is limited. The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pan preparation, which reduces cleanup and streamlines the cooking process. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is straightforward to execute, making it a reliable choice for families and individuals alike.

Versatility to Suit Every Taste

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Here are a few ways to tailor the dish:

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or additional beans for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy bold flavors, add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese for a creamy and indulgent twist.

The ability to personalize the skillet makes it a dish that can cater to different preferences within a household, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

The Appeal of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, adding both flavor and a host of health benefits. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory, spiced ground beef, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Here’s why sweet potatoes are a fantastic choice:

Rich in Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene, which supports skin health and boosts immunity.
Low Glycemic Index: Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes cause a slower rise in blood sugar, making them a better option for managing energy levels.
Versatility: Their mild flavor complements a variety of seasonings, from savory spices like cumin and paprika to sweet toppings like cinnamon.

Sweet potatoes not only enhance the flavor profile of the skillet but also contribute significantly to its nutritional value.

A One-Pan Wonder

Cooking this meal in a single skillet isn’t just about convenience; it also enhances the dish’s flavor. As the ingredients cook together, they absorb each other’s juices and seasonings, creating a rich, cohesive taste. The ground beef provides a savory base, while the sweet potatoes and optional add-ins like beans and bell peppers bring texture and depth. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This skillet meal isn’t just great for dinner; it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep. The leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy a wholesome meal throughout the week. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you have a satisfying lunch or dinner ready in minutes. Its portability also makes it a practical choice for those who need meals on the go.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Skillet

To ensure your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Cubing the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly and soften at the same rate.
Season Generously: The combination of cumin, paprika, and chili powder is the foundation of this dish’s flavor. Don’t be shy with the spices, and adjust them to your liking.
Monitor the Liquid: If the skillet becomes too dry while the sweet potatoes are cooking, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For optimal results, ensure there’s enough room in the skillet for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.

A Crowd-Pleasing Family Favorite

This recipe is not only delicious but also kid-friendly. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes often appeals to younger palates, while the savory beef and optional cheese make it a comforting and satisfying meal. For picky eaters, you can adjust the vegetables or serve the dish with a side of their favorite bread or salad to round out the meal.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Ground Beef: Provides essential amino acids, iron, and B vitamins, which support muscle health, energy production, and red blood cell formation.
Sweet Potatoes: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, they help promote gut health, boost immunity, and protect against oxidative stress.
Spices: Cumin and paprika are not just flavorful but also offer anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.
Olive Oil: A source of heart-healthy fats that also enhances the flavor of the dish.

This nutrient-dense combination ensures you’re serving a meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Keeping

The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a quick and easy meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. Its versatility, convenience, and nutritional benefits make it a standout recipe that deserves a place in your regular rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a comforting dish to enjoy on a busy evening, this skillet has got you covered.

With its perfect balance of savory and sweet, this one-pan wonder proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Try it today, and discover why it’s quickly becoming a go-to favorite for so many home cooks!

Pin182

182 Shares