If you are craving a hearty, colorful, and flavorful one-pan meal that feels like a warm hug from the Southwest, this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is just what you need. It brilliantly combines tender ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the smoky, earthy aroma of cumin and smoked paprika. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with nutrition, and bursting with flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or sharing with friends, this skillet meal promises satisfying comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this dish shine. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering the vibrant flavors, appealing textures, and the lovely southwestern vibe that make this skillet so special.
- Lean ground beef: Adds protein and rich, savory flavor while keeping the dish hearty without too much fat.
- Sweet potatoes: Bring a natural sweetness and creamy softness that balances the spices beautifully.
- Bell peppers (red and yellow): Provide a crisp texture and bright color to brighten every bite.
- Onion: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the skillet with aromatic warmth and a slight bite.
- Ground cumin: Delivers earthy, smoky notes that are signature to southwestern cooking.
- Smoked paprika: Elevates the dish with a mild smoky heat that enhances all other ingredients.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the beef and soften vegetables, adding rich mouthfeel.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the vibrant flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A fresh, herby garnish that adds contrast and a splash of green.
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes so they cook through at the same pace. Chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Once shimmering, add the lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and brown it thoroughly, about 5 minutes, so you get nice caramelization and rich flavor. This step builds the savory base of the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing just long enough for their fragrance to fill your kitchen—about 2 minutes. Add the chopped bell peppers afterward, stirring them in so they soften slightly but still keep their bright color and some crisp texture.
Step 4: Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices
Now it’s time to fold in the diced sweet potatoes. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. These spices bring warmth and smokiness, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the savory beef.
Step 5: Simmer to Tenderness
Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes. This slow cook time lets the sweet potatoes soften to a tender consistency while the flavors meld together in a delicious harmony.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the potatoes are fork-tender and the dish is piping hot, it’s ready. Dish it out generously into bowls or plates, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh herbal contrast and a pop of color that’s as inviting as the aroma.
How to Serve Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet perfect garnish, adding brightness and a touch of herbal freshness that balances the smoky and savory tones. For extra flair, you might also add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco to bring mild creaminess and authenticity.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with warm corn tortillas or a light green salad with a zesty lime dressing can elevate the meal and keep it feeling vibrant and fresh. Black beans or Mexican-style rice also complement the Southwest flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual cast iron skillets straight from the stove for a rustic presentation. You can also use it as a hearty filling for taco bowls or stuff it inside roasted bell peppers for a charming, colorful presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this delicious skillet, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, giving you ready-to-eat meals that required very little effort.
Freezing
This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, pressing out excess air. When properly stored, it can last up to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm the skillet gently in a nonstick pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You can also microwave leftovers covered with a damp paper towel for 2 to 3 minutes until hot. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this skillet. Just be sure to cook it through fully, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor.
Are sweet potatoes essential or can I substitute regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are key for their natural sweetness and texture, but if you prefer, you can swap them for regular potatoes. Keep in mind the flavor and cooking time may vary slightly since regular potatoes don’t have that same sweetness or creamy texture.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add more heat?
This recipe is mildly spicy thanks to the smoked paprika and cumin. If you like it hotter, feel free to add chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a little chipotle powder for smoky heat with a kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or cooked lentils. Adjust the spices accordingly to keep that signature Southwest flavor. The sweet potatoes and bell peppers will still create a delicious, hearty base.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
While sweet potatoes are nutritious, they are relatively high in carbs, so this recipe is not strictly keto-friendly. However, you can modify it by replacing sweet potatoes with lower-carb veggies like cauliflower or zucchini to fit into a keto diet.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a skillet meal that comes together quickly, tastes incredible, and fills your home with irresistible aromas. This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is a wonderful example of simple ingredients coming to life in a dish that’s both wholesome and exciting. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it week after week!
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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Description
A hearty and flavorful Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet that combines lean ground beef, sweet potatoes, and vibrant bell peppers with smoky spices for a quick and nutritious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and yellow)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Oils
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic cloves carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, then stir in the chopped bell peppers.
- Add sweet potatoes and spices: Incorporate the diced sweet potatoes into the skillet. Sprinkle ground cumin and smoked paprika over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper according to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the mixture: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the sweet potatoes to soften and all flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove from heat and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- To make it vegetarian, use plant-based ground meat alternatives and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
