There’s something undeniably comforting about meals that come together in one skillet — the sizzling of the pan, the aromas that fill the kitchen, and the ease of cleanup at the end. This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet has quickly become a weeknight favorite in many homes, and for good reason. It’s a hearty, wholesome dish packed with tender sweet potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, all nestled in warm spices that echo both simplicity and nourishment.

Growing up, skillet meals were always the answer to busy evenings in our household. My mother would take whatever we had on hand — often sweet potatoes and ground beef — and work her magic. We’d gather around the table, the skillet still warm, scooping generous portions into bowls. That scent of garlic, onion, and sweet roasted potato still feels like home.

This recipe pays homage to those traditions. It’s deeply rooted in practicality yet feels like a culinary hug. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving something cozy, this skillet has your back.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-pan convenience: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
• Hearty and filling: Perfect balance of protein and complex carbs.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Wholesome: Uses real, whole ingredients with no fuss.
• Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

HOW TO MAKE Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet:

A Flavorful, One-Skillet Wonder with Beef and Sweet Potato

This dish is straightforward and comes together quickly, yet it brings deep, earthy flavor and colorful appeal to your table. Here’s how to make this savory Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet from scratch.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Sauté the sweet potatoes
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced sweet potatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly caramelize. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and your ground beef. Break it up as it cooks and brown it evenly. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add aromatics and seasoning
Toss in the diced red onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and additional salt to taste. Stir well so the spices coat the beef.

Step 4: Combine the veggies
Add back the sweet potatoes, then stir in the diced green bell pepper. Cook everything together for 5–6 more minutes, until the potatoes are fully tender and the peppers are slightly soft but still bright.

Step 5: Top and serve
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the skillet and cover for a minute to let it melt. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot — straight from the skillet, family-style.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Chop evenly: Keep sweet potato pieces uniform for even cooking.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne if you like heat.
• Go dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add greens: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for an extra nutrient boost.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free

NOTES:

This dish makes a great meal prep option. It stores well and the flavors deepen overnight. Feel free to double the batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Estimated per serving (without cheese):
Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground lamb or turkey also works beautifully here. Just adjust seasoning to your taste.

What if I don’t have sweet potatoes?
You can use diced butternut squash or even regular potatoes as a substitute.

Can this be frozen?
Absolutely. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or oil to bring it back to life.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole: A Comforting Classic
• Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole
• Southwestern Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet – One-Pan Comfort Food at Its Best
• Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Hearty Tex-Mex Classic Worth Savoring

CONCLUSION:

The Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet is a weeknight savior that combines comfort, nutrition, and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for your family or meal prepping for busy days, it’s a recipe that feels both familiar and fresh. Plus, with just one pan, it’s as practical as it is delicious. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to comfort meal.

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