Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Using the keyword "Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet," this robust and comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners that need to be both hearty and quick. The combination of savory ground beef and naturally sweet sweet potatoes makes this skillet meal a delicious and balanced choice for families.
Why Make This Recipe
The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that everyone in your household will appreciate. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients from the colorful vegetables and lean protein. Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, while the ground beef provides necessary protein and iron. Let’s not forget, this dish is versatile, allowing you to adjust the toppings and spices according to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this skillet dish will hit the mark every time.
How to Make Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (90% lean or higher recommended). Provides a rich, savory base and essential protein.
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a boost of vitamins and fiber.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Lends aromatic depth and savory flavor to the dish.
- Bell Pepper: 1 bell pepper (any color), cored, seeded, and chopped. Contributes sweetness, crunch, and additional vitamins.
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Infuses the skillet with pungent, aromatic flavor.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil. Used for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste). Creates a warm, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended). Adds moisture and helps to steam the sweet potatoes to tenderness.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped; green onions, sliced; shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack); sour cream or Greek yogurt; avocado slices. Enhance the dish with fresh flavors, creamy textures, and visual appeal.
Directions
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Begin by prepping all your vegetables. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion and bell pepper into similar-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron or oven-safe) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Browning the beef first adds depth of flavor to the dish.
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Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Sautéing these aromatics builds a flavorful base for the skillet.
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Introduce the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir in the paprika, cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the spices. The spices will infuse the sweet potatoes and ground beef with a delicious Southwestern-inspired flavor.
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Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Simmering in broth allows the sweet potatoes to cook through and absorb the flavors of the spices and broth, while the covered skillet creates steam that helps them become perfectly tender.
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Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high if there is excess liquid in the skillet. Cook uncovered for a few minutes to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate and the sauce to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference. This step ensures the skillet isn’t watery and allows you to customize the flavor profile.
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Your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is now ready to serve! Ladle generous portions into bowls or plates. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh parsley or cilantro, sliced green onions, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or avocado slices. Garnishes add freshness, flavor, and visual appeal to the finished dish.
Pro Tips for Success Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Choose Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to keep the dish healthier with less grease. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can also work great here.
- Cut Uniformly: Make sure to chop your sweet potatoes, onion, and pepper into uniform sizes. This guarantees even cooking and enhances the overall texture of your skillet.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to play around with the spices based on your preference. Add more chili powder for extra heat or toss in some cayenne pepper for an added kick.
- Avoid Overcrowding: If your skillet isn’t large enough, consider cooking the ground beef in batches. Crowding the skillet can cause steaming instead of browning.
- Cover for Tenderness: Covering the skillet while simmering helps steam the sweet potatoes, which is key for achieving that tender bite everyone loves.
Flavor Variations Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Southwestern Twist: Add in black beans and corn for added protein and texture. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten the flavors.
- Veggie Loaded: Bulking up the skillet with additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach offers more nutrients while still keeping the dish balanced.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese towards the end of cooking, letting it melt into the mixture. Consider adding cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a delightful richness.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can be added during the cooking process. Consider rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
- Spicy Addition: For those who enjoy a kick, add diced jalapeños or top the skillet with spicy salsa for that fiery flavor.
Serving Suggestions Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Healthy Side Salad: Pair your skillet dish with a refreshing side salad, using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.
- Tortillas or Rice: Serve the skillet over rice or inside warm tortillas for a cozy meal that feels filling and satisfying.
- Dinner Rolls: Crusty dinner rolls or cornbread can be a delightful addition, perfect for scooping up the delicious skillet contents.
- Cheesy Casserole: Mix the ground beef and sweet potato mixture into a baking dish, top with your favorite cheese, and bake until bubbly for a casserole twist.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the skillet back on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions in a microwave-safe container until hot.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave as needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|—————|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
FAQ About Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is a fantastic base for this dish, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different meats can require slight variations.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. Additionally, using a spicy chili powder or adding red pepper flakes can amp up the heat. Just adjust according to your preference!
What if I don’t have sweet potatoes?
You can replace sweet potatoes in this recipe with other starchy vegetables like regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the vegetable used.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes! The ingredients can be prepped in advance. Chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator. You can also cook the individual components ahead of time and simply combine them when you’re ready to serve.
What are the best garnishes for this dish?
The possibilities are endless! Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro really brighten the dish. You can also add creamy toppings like sour cream or avocado slices, and sprinkle some cheese on top for added richness.
Final Thoughts
The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful combination that brings warmth, nutrition, and flavor to your dinner table. This recipe is easy to customize for various tastes and guarantees satisfaction for everyone around. So gather your ingredients, try it out, and enjoy a comforting meal that is sure to become a family favorite!
Print
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and comforting dish combining savory ground beef with sweet sweet potatoes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped; green onions, sliced; shredded cheese; sour cream or Greek yogurt; avocado slices
Instructions
- Prep all vegetables by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, chopping the onion and bell pepper, and mincing the garlic.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced sweet potatoes, paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Pour in chicken broth, scrape any browned bits from the skillet, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- If excess liquid remains, remove the lid and cook uncovered to evaporate liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve in bowls or plates and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Choose lean beef for a healthier option. Cut veggies uniformly for even cooking. Adjust spices according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
