Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

why make this recipe

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a delicious and healthy meal that combines bold flavors with simple ingredients. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it cooks in one skillet, which makes clean-up easy. The blend of sweet potatoes and ground beef provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, and the spices give it a wonderful Southwest twist. You’ll love how filling and satisfying this meal is, all while being nutritious.

how to make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and bell pepper, and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned.
5. Mix in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Stir in the black beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

how to serve Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This skillet dish is best served hot. You can enjoy it on its own or add some toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese. It goes well with a side salad or some warm tortillas for a heartier meal. The colorful presentation makes it great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

how to store Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

tips to make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Make sure to dice the sweet potatoes into small, even pieces for quicker cooking.
• For extra flavor, consider adding some corn or diced tomatoes to the skillet.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add some cayenne pepper or jalapeño.
• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute ground turkey or chicken.

variation

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can! Regular potatoes will work, but they may take a bit longer to cook.

2. What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or even a fresh green salad.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freezer and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

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