Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that combines savory lean ground beef with sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes and vibrant vegetables. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, offering a quick preparation time without sacrificing flavor. With its customizable ingredients, it suits various occasions, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices like cumin and smoked paprika creates a fiesta of flavors in each bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Featuring sweet potatoes and lean ground beef, this dish is both hearty and healthy.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single skillet.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with ingredients you have on hand or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Sharp knife: Ensures efficient and safe chopping of vegetables, making prep time quicker.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface keeps your workspace organized and helps prevent cross-contamination.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and yellow)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic as well.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the bell peppers.

Step 4: Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices

Add the diced sweet potatoes along with ground cumin and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper; stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve warm in bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet!

How to Serve Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a casual dinner or a more sophisticated meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Bowl Style

• Serve the skillet mixture in deep bowls, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors. Top with fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Topped with Avocado

• Slice ripe avocados on top of the dish to add creaminess. This complements the savory beef and sweet potatoes beautifully.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a refreshing green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. The acidity balances the richness of the skillet dish.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• Use whole wheat or corn tortillas to create hearty wraps filled with the beef and sweet potato mixture. Ideal for a fun, handheld option.

Garnished with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, over the hot skillet for a melty finish. This adds an extra layer of flavor.

Served with Lime Wedges

• Include lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. The citrus enhances all the southwestern flavors wonderfully.

How to Perfect Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

To make your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sweet potatoes and colorful bell peppers enhance both flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels: Tailor the cumin and paprika amounts based on your heat preference.
• Brown the beef properly: Ensure your ground beef is nicely browned for depth of flavor; don’t rush this step.
• Add beans: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans for added protein and texture.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for variety.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Pairing your meal with sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great side dishes that complement Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet perfectly.

1. Cornbread
   A slightly sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up juices beautifully.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
   Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder; it’s bursting with flavor!
3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole offers a refreshing contrast to the savory skillet dish.
4. Rice Pilaf
   A light rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a perfect base under your main dish.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil provide crunch and balance out sweetness from sweet potatoes.
6. Cilantro Lime Quinoa
   Quinoa cooked in lime juice with fresh cilantro adds brightness while being nutritious.
7. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeños adds freshness and zest!
8. Chips & Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside salsa offer an easy snack or appetizer before your meal begins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim to brown it for about 5 minutes, just until fully cooked.
• Ignoring the size of sweet potato cubes: Cutting sweet potatoes into uneven sizes can result in some being undercooked while others are mushy. Ensure uniformity for even cooking.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping on salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning according to your preference.
• Neglecting to cover the skillet: Failing to cover the skillet while simmering can cause moisture loss, making the dish dry. Always use a lid for optimal cooking.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using subpar beef or old spices can dull the flavor of your dish. Always choose fresh, quality ingredients for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3–4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet healthy?

This dish is packed with nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes, which are high in fiber and vitamins. Lean ground beef also provides essential protein without excessive fat.

Can I substitute ground turkey in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while keeping similar flavors.

How do I customize my Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Feel free to add black beans or corn for extra protein. Adjust spices based on your taste preferences, such as adding more cumin or chili powder.

What vegetables can I include in my skillet?

You can add other veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach depending on what you have on hand. The options are limitless!

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its vibrant flavors and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at your dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with your favorite additions!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal that brings together savory lean ground beef, sweet caramelized sweet potatoes, and a colorful medley of vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes just 35 minutes to prepare, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice taste for convenience. It’s easily customizable to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. With its hearty ingredients and satisfying flavors, this skillet meal offers a delightful experience that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and yellow)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in bell peppers.
4. Incorporate diced sweet potatoes along with cumin and smoked paprika; season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm in bowls or plates garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg