Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Imagine a comforting, wholesome meal bursting with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, all made in one pan! This incredible Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet brings together savory ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and a lively blend of Southwestern spices. It’s a perfect weeknight solution for busy families like mine, offering both nourishment and a delicious adventure for your taste buds.

You’ll love how quickly this hearty dish comes together, delivering a meal that truly feels like a warm hug from the kitchen. This versatile Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet quickly becomes a family favorite, making mealtime joyful and stress-free. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary for your table.

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

As a mom always looking for wholesome yet easy dinner ideas, I can tell you this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet hits all the marks. It’s a game-changer for busy evenings!

• Effortless & Quick: Get a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for juggling after-school activities.
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to mountains of dishes! Everything cooks in a single skillet, simplifying cleanup significantly.
• Nutrient-Packed: Enjoy the goodness of lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and vibrant veggies in every spoonful of this nourishing Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The perfect balance of savory beef, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice creates a delightful taste experience for the whole family.
• Kid-Friendly & Customizable: Even the pickiest eaters often love this meal, and you can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating a truly memorable Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Olive Oil	1 tablespoon	Good quality for sautéing.
Lean Ground Beef	1 pound	90/10 or 93/7 for less grease.
Yellow Onion	1 medium	Finely diced for even flavor.
Garlic	3 cloves	Minced, fresh is always best.
Sweet Potatoes	2 medium	Peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes.
Chicken Broth	½ cup	Low sodium preferred.
Canned Diced Tomatoes	14.5 ounce can	Undrained, fire-roasted adds depth.
Canned Black Beans	15 ounce can	Rinsed and drained thoroughly.
Corn	1 cup	Frozen or fresh kernels.
Chili Powder	1 tablespoon	For authentic Southwest flavor.
Cumin	1 teaspoon	Ground.
Smoked Paprika	1 teaspoon	Adds a wonderful smoky note.
Salt	½ teaspoon	Or to taste.
Black Pepper	¼ teaspoon	Freshly ground.
Fresh Cilantro	¼ cup	Chopped, for garnish.
Avocado	1 medium	Diced, for serving.
Lime	1 whole	Cut into wedges, for serving.

Substitutions & Variations

One of the best things about this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is its adaptability! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Remember, even with swaps, the core deliciousness of your Southwest ground beef and sweet potato creation will shine through.

• Protein Power: Not a fan of ground beef? This skillet works beautifully with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based crumble. You can also add a can of rinsed cannellini or pinto beans for extra fiber and protein, truly making it your own Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet variation.
• Veggie Boost: Enhance the nutritional value by adding bell peppers (any color!), zucchini, or spinach. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain some crunch.
• Spice It Up (or Down): For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) to your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. If serving to sensitive palates, reduce the chili powder slightly.
• Cheese Please: While not strictly necessary, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend during the last minute of cooking (cover to melt) adds a gooey, comforting touch.
• Grain Goodness: For a heartier meal, serve this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

For those looking to mix things up, consider trying our Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, which also delights with its versatility and flavor. This adaptable dish allows you to showcase your creativity in the kitchen just like the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your delicious Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into consistent ½-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly. Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the black beans.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Sweet Potatoes & Spices: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the spices to toast slightly and coat the ingredients. This step significantly boosts the flavor of your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
5. Simmer to Tender: Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish & Serve: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in the rinsed black beans and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This completes your hearty Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
7. Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving the best possible Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet involves a few key techniques. These tips will help you elevate your cooking and ensure a flavorful, perfectly textured dish:

• Even Sweet Potato Dicing: Cut your sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes. Inconsistent sizes mean some pieces will be mushy while others are still hard. This uniformity is crucial for an evenly cooked Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
• Don’t Skimp on Draining Fat: Lean ground beef is great, but always drain any excess fat after browning. This prevents a greasy final product and allows the flavors of the spices and vegetables to truly shine in your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
• Toast Your Spices: After sautéing the aromatics, add the dry spices and cook them for a minute or two with the beef and vegetables before adding liquids. This blooming process brings out their full aroma and flavor, making a huge difference in the overall taste profile of the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.
• Low and Slow Simmer: Once the broth and tomatoes are added, reduce the heat and cover the skillet. This gentle simmer ensures the sweet potatoes cook through without becoming waterlogged or disintegrating.
• Fresh Garnishes Make a Difference: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro, avocado, and lime. These fresh additions provide brightness, creaminess, and acidity that cut through the richness of the skillet, making every bite of this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet balanced and vibrant.

To enhance your cooking techniques, don’t miss our guide on Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, where we provide you with tips to perfect your culinary skills. These techniques can be applied to make your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet even more delicious.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Preparing a big batch of Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a smart move for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Properly storing and reheating ensures your dish remains delicious and safe to eat.

• Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet to cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation and helps maintain freshness.
• Airtight Container: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. This protects the food from air exposure and keeps it fresh for longer.
• Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, usually 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. For larger amounts, gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems a bit dry, until thoroughly heated. This method helps maintain the texture of your lovely Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is incredibly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can create an even more complete and delightful meal. Think about light, fresh, and wholesome accompaniments that complement the rich, savory flavors of the skillet.

• Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet. The crispness of fresh greens is always a welcome addition.
• Avocado Slices or Guacamole: The creamy texture and healthy fats of avocado are a natural fit for Southwestern flavors. Either serve sliced avocado on the side or a small dollop of homemade guacamole.
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream adds a cooling tang that balances the spices in the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet beautifully.
• Warm Tortillas or Tortilla Chips: Offer some warm whole wheat tortillas or a side of baked tortilla chips for scooping up every delicious bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you want more veggies, a simple side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers would complement this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet perfectly.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: For an extra filling meal, serve the skillet over a bed of fluffy brown rice or protein-rich quinoa.

Looking to round out your meal? Pair your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet with our delightful Homemade Fluffy Rolls for the perfect dining experience that balances flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I make this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet makes an excellent meal prep option. You can cook the entire dish, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. This makes your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet perfect for busy weeknights.

What if I don’t have sweet potatoes? Can I use regular potatoes?

While sweet potatoes offer a unique sweetness and nutritional profile that truly defines this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, you can certainly substitute them with regular potatoes if needed. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes cut into ½-inch cubes would work well.

Keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly, and the flavor profile will be less sweet. You might also consider adding a pinch of sugar or a bit more corn for a touch of sweetness if using regular potatoes in your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet adaptation.

How can I make this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet spicier for adults but still mild for kids?

This is a common challenge for many families, and it’s easy to manage with this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. Prepare the recipe as directed, keeping the chili powder and other spices at a moderate level. For the adults who prefer more heat, you can offer add-ins at the table.

Suggestions include a bottle of your favorite hot sauce, a bowl of sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a dollop of spicy salsa. This way, everyone can customize their portion of the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet to their desired spice level without compromising the overall dish.

The Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a quintessential example of how various cuisines can blend, offering a hearty and nutritious meal. This delicious creation showcases the joy of cooking with ingredients like sweet potatoes and ground beef, bringing comfort to dinner tables around the world through its rich flavors and appealing presentation.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this wholesome Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet (based on 4 servings, actual values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380-420 kcal
Protein	30-35 g
Fat	15-20 g
Saturated Fat	6-8 g
Carbohydrates	35-40 g
Fiber	8-10 g
Sugar	8-10 g
Sodium	600-700 mg

Print