Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet | One-Pan Weeknight Favorite

Introduction

Fast, hearty, and packed with bold flavor — this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is everything a one-pan dinner should be. Lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and warm Southwestern spices come together in a colorful, comforting dish that’s ready in just about 30 minutes.

Inspired by Tex-Mex and Southwestern cooking, this skillet meal delivers a smoky, slightly spicy kick balanced by the natural sweetness of potatoes and brightened with fresh toppings like avocado, lime, and cilantro. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep lunches.

Whether served as a burrito filling, taco bowl base, or a complete skillet meal on its own, this recipe brings bold flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients Overview

This dish is built on a handful of wholesome ingredients that work together to create incredible taste and texture.

Ground Beef

Lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) is ideal — it provides rich flavor without excess grease. Beef takes on the smoky chili and cumin spices beautifully.

Alternative: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground crumbles work just as well for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Sweet Potatoes

Cubed sweet potatoes add a soft, naturally sweet contrast to the savory beef. They also make this dish more nutrient-dense with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

Tip: Dice sweet potatoes small (1/2-inch cubes) so they cook quickly and evenly in the skillet.

Onion and Garlic

These aromatics lay the flavor foundation. As they cook down, they add sweetness and depth to the dish.

Bell Pepper

Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers bring crunch, color, and mild sweetness that complements the earthy spices.

Optional Add-In: Jalapeños or poblano peppers for a spicy edge.

Black Beans

For added fiber, protein, and bulk. Black beans also soak up flavor beautifully and make the meal more filling.

Substitute: Pinto or kidney beans can be used interchangeably.

Southwestern Spices

A classic blend of:

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper

These spices infuse the skillet with warmth, smokiness, and a touch of heat. You can adjust to suit your spice tolerance.

Lime Juice

Adds essential acidity to brighten and balance the dish just before serving.

Toppings (Optional but Recommended)

• Avocado or guacamole
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Shredded cheese
• Hot sauce
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Step-by-Step Instructions

This dish comes together in one skillet with simple steps. It’s perfect for a quick, nourishing dinner.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add:

• 1 small diced onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves

Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.

Drain any excess fat if necessary, but leave a bit in the pan for flavor.

3. Add Spices and Vegetables

Stir in:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Then add:

• 2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/3 cup water or broth

Stir to coat everything evenly. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Tip: If the skillet gets dry, add another splash of broth or water to steam the potatoes.

4. Add Black Beans

Stir in:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• Juice of 1/2 lime

Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Garnish and Serve

Top with your choice of:

• Avocado slices
• Fresh cilantro
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Hot sauce
• Additional lime juice

Serve hot straight from the skillet.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

This skillet is easy to adapt based on what you have or need.

Tips for Best Results

• Dice sweet potatoes small to ensure fast, even cooking.
• Add liquid (water or broth) and cover during the cook time to steam the potatoes properly.
• Don’t overcook the beans — they just need to be warmed through at the end.

Variations

• Spicy: Add jalapeño, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking.
• Cheesy: Top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack and cover the skillet until melted.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add corn, canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Replace beef with black lentils, tofu crumbles, or more beans.
• Low Carb: Swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini.
• Dairy-Free: Skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based versions.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This skillet meal is perfect for:

Quick Dinners

One pan, minimal cleanup, and ready in 30 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.

Meal Prep

Divide into containers for 3–4 easy lunches. Add fresh toppings like avocado and lime just before eating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over white or brown rice
• Scoop into warm tortillas for tacos
• Add to lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
• Use as a burrito or quesadilla filling

It’s also great with tortilla chips for a loaded nacho-style dish.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This skillet is packed with whole-food ingredients, fiber, and lean protein, making it a well-balanced, satisfying meal.

• Ground beef offers protein, iron, and B12
• Sweet potatoes provide complex carbs, vitamin A, and potassium
• Black beans boost fiber and plant-based protein
• Vegetables and spices bring antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits

Lighter Option: Use extra-lean beef or swap in turkey. Skip cheese and sour cream for a dairy-free, lower-fat version.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

Q2: Can I freeze this skillet meal?

Yes. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Q3: Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?

No. If you scrub them well, the skin is edible and adds extra fiber. Peeling is personal preference for texture.

Q4: What if my sweet potatoes are still hard?

Cover the skillet and add a splash of water or broth. Let them steam for a few more minutes until fork-tender.

Q5: Can I use white potatoes instead?

You can, though sweet potatoes offer a better flavor contrast with the spices. White potatoes will work in a pinch.

Q6: How do I make it spicier?

Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while cooking.

Q7: What toppings go best?

Avocado, shredded cheese, lime juice, sour cream, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips are all delicious options.

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