If you’re looking for a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious, let me introduce you to my southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet! This one-pan wonder combines ground beef, sweet potatoes, and vibrant veggies, creating a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of nutritious ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in about 40 minutes. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and spices. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular addition to your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground beef: You can use lean or regular, depending on your preference for fat content.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced: Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed: This adds protein and fiber; look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt.
• 1 cup corn: You can use frozen or canned corn—just make sure to drain the canned variety well.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Any color works, but I love using red or yellow for their sweetness!
• 1 onion, chopped: A yellow onion is perfect here, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!
• 2 tsp chili powder: This adds a nice kick; feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• 1 tsp cumin: It brings a warm, earthy flavor to the dish that’s simply irresistible.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking for the best flavor!
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This is for sautéing; feel free to use another oil if you prefer.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: This adds a fresh pop of color and flavor at the end!

How to Prepare Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Skillet

First things first, let’s get that skillet ready! Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I can’t stress enough how important it is to use a large skillet here; it allows all those delicious ingredients to cook evenly without crowding. Once the oil shimmers, you’re good to go!

Step 2 – Sauté Aromatics

Now, let’s add some flavor! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Keep an eye on that garlic, though! You don’t want it to burn, or it’ll turn bitter. Just stir occasionally and breathe in that wonderful aroma!

Step 3 – Cook the Beef

Next, it’s time to add the ground beef. Crumble it into the skillet and cook it, breaking it up with your spatula as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want to make sure it’s fully cooked and nicely browned for the best texture and flavor.

Step 4 – Add Sweet Potatoes

Now, let’s amp up the goodness with those diced sweet potatoes. Stir them in well, cover the skillet, and let them cook for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial—make sure your sweet potatoes are diced evenly! This will ensure they cook through at the same rate and become perfectly tender.

Step 5 – Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Once the sweet potatoes have softened a bit, it’s time to add in the rest! Toss in the black beans, corn, and diced bell pepper, along with chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, and don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your taste—this dish is all about what you love!

Step 6 – Final Cooking

Stir it all up again and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on those sweet potatoes; they should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If you see a bit of a golden crust forming, you’re doing it right!

Step 7 – Garnish and Serve

Finally, it’s time to make it pretty! Garnish your southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet with fresh cilantro for that burst of color and flavor. Serve it up warm, and enjoy this delightful one-pan meal that’s just bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with sweet potatoes, black beans, and colorful veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also full of vitamins and fiber.
• One-Pan Meal: Say goodbye to a mountain of dishes! Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins. Ground turkey or chicken works great, and you can add zucchini or spinach for even more flavor.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its fun textures and satisfying flavors. Everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Tips for Success

To ensure your southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that I swear by:

• Watch the Sweet Potatoes: To avoid overcooking, make sure to cut your sweet potatoes into even pieces. This not only helps them cook uniformly but also prevents them from turning mushy. If you’re unsure, a fork should easily pierce them when they’re done, but they shouldn’t fall apart!
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems a bit dry!
• Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to beef. You can also add in other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. On the flip side, if you’re serving kids or prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce the chili powder and cumin to suit your taste!
• Fresh Herbs: Besides cilantro, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or even a sprinkle of green onions for a different twist. Fresh herbs really elevate the dish and add a lovely brightness!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful skillet dish. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal like my southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 30g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. But overall, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of nutrients from those vibrant veggies, making it a wholesome choice for any night of the week!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Q2: What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly! You could even try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! This dish is super versatile. Feel free to add diced zucchini, spinach, or even some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re adding veggies that cook quickly!

Q4: How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin. For those who love a kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños can spice things up wonderfully!

Q5: Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the labels on any canned ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this fantastic southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the hearty skillet. It adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors perfectly!
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices on the side are a must! They add a rich, buttery texture that complements the dish and provides healthy fats.
• Tortilla Chips: For a fun twist, serve some crispy tortilla chips on the side. They offer a satisfying crunch and can be used to scoop up the skillet goodness, making it a great finger food option!
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a creamy contrast and a bit of tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor!
• Fresh Salsa: A fresh tomato salsa or pico de gallo brings a zesty kick and adds a burst of color to your plate. It’s a fantastic way to elevate the dish!

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your tastes and what you have available. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to have fun with it!

Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet in 40 Minutes!

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple and delicious southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet recipe.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Stir in diced sweet potatoes, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes.
5. Add black beans, corn, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir everything together and cook for another 10-15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

• Make sure to dice sweet potatoes evenly for even cooking.
• You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Adjust spices according to your taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Southwest

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: southwest ground beef sweet potato skillet