Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
This Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that combines the hearty flavors of lean ground beef with the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dinner option for families or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting dish. This recipe is simple to follow and can be made in just under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
A Personal Story Behind My Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals together. One dish that always brought smiles was a skillet dinner, especially when it involved ground beef and sweet potatoes. My mother would whip up various versions of this dish, and it quickly became a staple in our household. Today, I cherish the memories of those family dinners, and this Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet is my way of sharing that love and warmth with others.
What Makes This Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The ground beef is seasoned with chili powder and cumin, giving it a delightful kick, while the sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances the dish perfectly. The addition of fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles adds depth and complexity, making every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s all cooked in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
The Full Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 teaspoons chili powder, divided
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- Salt and 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)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon. Season with 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is almost done, about 5-7 minutes. Add the grated garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer the beef mixture to a plate and wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
- In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, and water. Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return the ground beef mixture to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover with the lid, and cook for another minute or until the cheese is melted. If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy this hearty meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
This Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for an extra kick. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or mozzarella, depending on your taste preferences. This dish is versatile and can be modified to suit your dietary needs, such as using ground turkey or adding more vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and sweet potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the skillet and add the cheese before serving.
What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
If you prefer, you can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or even cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This skillet meal freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 4
Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet A large skillet is recommended for even cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 cup diced onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
- 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes
- 14.5 ounce fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 4 ounces canned diced green chiles
- 0.25 cup water
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bunch cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon. Season with 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is almost done, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer to a plate and wipe the skillet clean.
- In the same skillet, add diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, water, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir, cover with a lid, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return the ground beef mixture to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Stir to combine. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover with the lid, and cook for another minute or until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve.