Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of sweet potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
A Personal Story Behind My Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for dinner filled with vibrant colors and flavors, especially Tex-Mex dishes. One of my fondest memories is helping my grandmother prepare spicy beef tacos with sweet potatoes on the side. Inspired by those cherished moments, I created this skillet recipe that brings those nostalgic flavors to life, combining everything into one easy and delightful meal.
What Makes This Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe Special?
This skillet dish is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. The sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness and a healthy twist, while the spices add a delightful kick that makes this meal truly special. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Full Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 large red onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 4-ounce can green chiles, drained
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped sweet potatoes (about 1 large potato)
- 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, fire-roasted if desired
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sliced avocado for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Make sure to keep stirring to evenly cook the beef and prevent it from sticking.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: The spices will enhance the flavors, so don’t rush this step!
- Mix in the bell pepper, green chiles, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and water. Stir well, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Tip: Check occasionally and add a splash more water if it looks too dry.
- Remove the lid, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, then cover again until melted, about 1-2 more minutes. Tip: If you prefer a crispy top, you can broil it for a minute after adding the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced avocado, and serve with lime wedges. Tip: The lime adds a refreshing zing!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Serve this hearty skillet on its own, or pair it with tortillas or rice for a more filling meal. For a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of lime zest for added freshness. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate your family’s preferences!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time as turkey may cook faster.
What if I don’t have sweet potatoes? You can use regular potatoes or even cauliflower for a lower-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the skillet and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Tex-Mex Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
Equipment
- Large Skillet For cooking the dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 large red onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 to taste Salt
- 1 to taste Pepper
- 1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 4 ounces can green chiles, drained
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped sweet potatoes about 1 large potato
- 15 ounces can diced tomatoes fire-roasted if desired
- 0.25 cup water
- 0.5 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 to taste Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
- 1 to taste Sliced avocado for garnish optional
- 1 to taste Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Make sure to keep stirring to evenly cook the beef and prevent it from sticking.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: The spices will enhance the flavors, so don’t rush this step!
- Mix in the bell pepper, green chiles, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and water. Stir well, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Tip: Check occasionally and add a splash more water if it looks too dry.
- Remove the lid, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, then cover again until melted, about 1-2 more minutes. Tip: If you prefer a crispy top, you can broil it for a minute after adding the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced avocado, and serve with lime wedges. Tip: The lime adds a refreshing zing!