This Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is a hearty, one-pan dish that’s full of flavor! The sweet potatoes add a nice touch of sweetness, while the beef brings a savory bite.
It’s super easy to make—just cook everything in one skillet. No one wants to do a mountain of dishes, right? Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for the right mix of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient! You can also use regular potatoes in a pinch. Just remember they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Bell Peppers: Red and green give great flavor and color. If they’re not available, any color of pepper or even zucchini can be a nice alternative.
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin add warmth. For a twist, try adding taco seasoning for some different flavors.
How Can I Cook Sweet Potatoes Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking sweet potatoes right can make a difference in your dish. Start by dicing them into small, even cubes; this helps them cook faster. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil before adding the potatoes to get that nice crispy texture.
- Let them sit for a few moments before stirring to allow browning. Stirring too often can prevent that.
- Cook until you can easily pierce them with a fork, about 7-10 minutes.
Once you’ve mastered this, you’ll have sweet potatoes that add a delicious depth to your skillet! Enjoy your cooking!
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
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal that’s ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook them for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, so they cook evenly, until they begin to soften and get a nice, light brown color. Once done, remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and set them aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s translucent and fragrant. This helps build a flavorful base for your dish!
3. Browning the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart, cooking until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This is where the beef gets all its delicious flavor!
4. Mixing in the Veggies and Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook this vibrant mixture for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften and everything is beautifully combined.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked sweet potatoes back to the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it cook together for another 3-5 minutes. This will let all the flavors meld and ensure your sweet potatoes are tender. Yum!
6. Final Touches:
Taste your skillet dish and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed. Cooking is all about making it taste just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side if you like a tangy kick. Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option and works well in this recipe. Just cook it in the same way as the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Potatoes?
If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, but they may need a bit more cooking time. Alternatively, butternut squash or even cauliflower works as a tasty swap!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored 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 until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or zucchini. Just be mindful of their cooking times, adding quicker-cooking veggies later in the process.
