If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that the whole family will love, then look no further than this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. This dish combines savory ground beef with sweet potatoes and bold spices, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or when I have friends over—it’s so easy to whip up, and everyone always asks for seconds!

What makes this skillet dish truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a comforting family dinner, or serve it at gatherings where everyone can dig in together. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients, making it both delicious and health-conscious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
Family-friendly: The combination of beef and sweet potatoes creates a dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal instead of cleaning up afterward!
Packed with flavor: With spices like chili powder and cumin, every bite is bursting with warmth and zest.
Healthy ingredients: Wholesome ingredients keep this dish nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need:

For the Skillet

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1 pound lean ground beef
5 teaspoons chili powder (divided)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon grated garlic
2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes
14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
4 ounces canned diced green chiles
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty ideas:

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, add some jalapeños or cayenne pepper to amp up the flavor.
Try different cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a new twist.

How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. As you crumble the beef with a wooden spoon, this step allows the onions to soften and infuse their sweetness into the meat. Once the beef is nearly cooked through, add in the garlic—this will only take about a minute but adds so much flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Pour out the cooked beef onto a plate and wipe out the skillet. Now it’s time to create that hearty base! Add your diced sweet potatoes along with fire roasted tomatoes, green chiles, water, remaining chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together well; covering it will help steam the sweet potatoes until they become tender—about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Everything

After your sweet potatoes are cooked through, bring back your ground beef mixture into the skillet. Give it all a good stir so that every bite gets that wonderful southwest flavor! Top with shredded cheddar cheese; covering it again for just a minute will melt that cheesy goodness right on top. Finish off with chopped cilantro if desired—it adds a lovely fresh touch before serving.

And there you have it! A delicious Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This quick and easy recipe is a great way to bring flavor and comfort to your dinner table with minimal fuss!

Choose the Right Beef: Using lean ground beef (around 90% lean) helps to keep the dish healthier while still providing that delicious, savory flavor. It reduces excess grease without compromising taste.
Cook Sweet Potatoes Until Tender: Ensuring the sweet potatoes are cooked until tender not only adds texture but also allows them to absorb all those wonderful southwestern spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices, especially chili powder and cumin, can make a huge difference in flavor. They add depth and complexity, making your skillet dinner more vibrant and aromatic.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: Topping with melted cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the spices beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to throw in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the dish but also gives you a chance to use up any veggies you have on hand!

How to Serve Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Presenting this dish is just as fun as making it! You can serve it directly from the skillet at the table for a rustic experience, or plate it individually to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

Chopped Green Onions: Adds a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances out the spices in the skillet.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess and coolness, perfect for those who love contrasting flavors.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the skillet. Plus, it’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overshadowing your main dish’s bold flavors.
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: For a fun twist, serve some crunchy tortilla chips on the side with your favorite salsa for dipping; they add extra texture and flavor.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet! Gather your loved ones around for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is an excellent choice for meal prep! It’s not only quick to whip up but also stores beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the skillet meal cool down thoroughly.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of meat in Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking to switch things up while still enjoying a similar flavor profile.

How can I make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet healthier?

You can add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, reduce the cheese, or use leaner ground beef options for a lighter take!

What can I serve with Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you could pair it with a simple green salad or avocado slices for added freshness.

Is Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe uses gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!