This Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is a warm and hearty meal, full of flavor! With tender sweet potatoes and juicy ground beef, it’s like a cozy hug on a plate.
It comes together in just one pan—easy cleanup for the win! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Who can resist gooey cheese? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds heartiness to the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or black beans instead!
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish! They bring sweetness and a creamy texture. Can’t find sweet potatoes? Yams are a good substitute. For a lower-carb option, you could use cauliflower instead.
Onion and Bell Pepper: They add depth and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, consider using frozen diced onions and peppers, or some shallots can also do the trick!
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika give a warm, smoky flavor. You can switch them out for taco seasoning if you’re aiming for a quicker flavor boost. Fresh herbs like oregano can also work nicely!
Cilantro: This fresh herb brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or green onions for a fresh garnish instead.
How Can I Perfectly Sauté Sweet Potatoes?
Getting sweet potatoes perfectly soft and slightly crispy can be a challenge. Here’s what to do:
- Start with small, even cubes for quicker cooking. Aim for 1/2-inch cubes.
- Use medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning. Too high might char the outside.
- Stir them occasionally, allowing them to brown slightly. This adds flavor!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if there are too many, cook them in batches for the best result.
These tips will help you achieve deliciously tender sweet potatoes in no time!
Sweet Potato And Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional, for fresh finish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With just one pan used, you’ll enjoy a satisfying meal without spending too much time cleaning up afterward!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing Sweet Potatoes:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet potatoes. Sauté them for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and turn golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cooking the Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, making sure to stir regularly for even cooking.
3. Adding Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful aroma—it’ll be delicious!
4. Browning the Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary!
5. Seasoning the Mixture:
Season your beef mixture with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you’re using it), along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure everything is nicely combined.
6. Bringing It All Together:
Reintroduce the diced tomatoes and the sautéed sweet potatoes back into the skillet. Stir everything together and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly while the sweet potatoes become nice and tender.
7. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and, if you choose, stir in the lime juice for a fresh kick. Then, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this hearty dish warm straight from the skillet. You can also garnish with extra cilantro or a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added flavor!
This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a delightful balance of flavors that is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may cook a bit faster.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No worries! If you don’t have cilantro, you can use parsley as a substitute. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try adding some green onions or skipping the herb altogether.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils, black beans, or crumbled tempeh. The cooking times may vary depending on the substitute you choose, so adjust accordingly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating!
