Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Hearty southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet promises a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance with excitement.

Vibrant spices and colorful ingredients blend seamlessly in this one-pan wonder.

Peppers, onions, and tender meat create a symphony of textures that speaks directly to comfort food lovers.

Regional influences shine through every delectable bite of this nutritious meal.

Home cooks adore how quickly this skillet comes together with minimal cleanup.

Robust seasonings and perfectly caramelized sweet potatoes guarantee a meal you’ll want to devour again and again.

Jump into this culinary adventure and let your kitchen become a southwest flavor destination.

Southwest Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Questions Answered

• What ingredients give this skillet its Southwest flavor?

The combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes creates the classic Southwest taste profile, bringing warmth and depth to the ground beef and sweet potato mixture.

• Is this recipe considered a one-pan meal?

Yes, this Southwest skillet is a complete one-pan meal that includes protein from ground beef, carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, and additional nutrients from beans and corn, making it a convenient and balanced dish.

• Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?

You can easily control the heat level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes, and for more heat, add extra flakes or include diced jalapeños.

• How nutritious is this Southwest skillet?

This recipe is nutrient-dense, featuring lean ground beef for protein, sweet potatoes for complex carbohydrates and vitamins, black beans for fiber, and various spices that offer additional health benefits and antioxidants.

Why You Should Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• One-pan meal that transforms ground beef and sweet potatoes into a zesty, nutritious feast for busy weeknights.
• Requires just one skillet, simple ingredients, and under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for home cooks with limited time.
• Packed with bold spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika that deliver authentic southwestern taste without complicated preparation.
• Combines lean protein from ground beef, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and additional nutrients from beans and vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Ground Beef: Hearty base for the skillet, providing rich flavor and protein. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.

• Sweet Potatoes: Adds natural sweetness and nutritious texture. Look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without bruises.
• Onion: Adds depth and aromatic base to the dish. Fresh, firm onions work best.
• Garlic: Provides intense flavor and aromatic complexity. Fresh garlic cloves preferred over pre-minced.
• Black Beans: Adds protein and creamy texture. Canned beans are convenient and quick to use.
• Corn: Brings sweet crunch and color to the skillet. Frozen or canned corn work well.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds moisture and slight heat. Canned version provides consistent flavor.

• Chili Powder: Provides warmth and southwestern character.
• Cumin: Offers earthy, smoky undertones typical of southwest cuisine.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds deep, smoky flavor profile.
• Oregano: Contributes herbal notes and complexity.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces subtle heat and spiciness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

• Cheese: Adds creamy, melty richness. Shredded cheddar or monterey jack recommended.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb for bright, fresh finish.
• Lime Wedges: Provides zesty, tangy accent.

• Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking.

How to Make a Flavorful Southwest Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and ground beef. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef turns completely brown and loses its pink color. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

Toss chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Spice Up the Sweet Potatoes

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The sweet potatoes should start becoming tender.

Step 4: Build Layers of Flavor

• Black beans
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Corn

Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes until sweet potatoes are completely soft and ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Melt and Finish

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.

Step 6: Garnish and Plate

Remove from heat. Scatter fresh chopped cilantro across the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Pro Tips for Skillet Success with Southwest Flavors

• Drain Beef Thoroughly: Remove excess fat completely to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a cleaner, healthier meal.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes and chili powder to match your heat tolerance, creating a personalized flavor profile.
• Choose Sweet Potato Consistency: Cut sweet potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes for even cooking and better texture throughout the skillet.
• Swap Protein Options: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version of the recipe.
• Enhance Leftovers: Store in an airtight container and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.

Storing and Reheating Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring you label with the date.
• Warm the skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.
• Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.

What to Serve with Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Complement the southwestern spices with a classic margarita, blending tequila, lime juice, and a salt rim to cut through the dish's richness.
• Whip up a quick Greek yogurt dip with chopped cilantro, lime zest, and a pinch of cumin to balance the skillet's spicy and hearty flavors.
• Toss fresh corn kernels with red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro as a bright, crunchy side that echoes the dish's southwestern profile.
• Select a light, crisp beer like Corona or Modelo to refresh the palate and harmonize with the skillet's bold southwestern spices.

Southwest Skillet Variations to Try at Home

• Vegetarian Powerhouse: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a protein-packed meatless meal that maintains the Southwest flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute sweet potatoes with cauliflower florets to create a lower-carbohydrate version that keeps the spicy southwestern essence intact.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all spices and canned ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities while preserving the original taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds to accommodate lactose-intolerant or dairy-free dietary needs.

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet delivers a spicy dance of flavors through robust southwestern ingredients. Savory beef, tender sweet potatoes, and zesty spices blend perfectly, promising you a quick, satisfying meal that sparks culinary excitement.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Meat:

• 1 pound (1 lb) lean ground beef

Vegetables and Beans:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• ½ cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Seasonings and Extras:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend, optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious cast-iron skillet over medium flame, introducing olive oil to create a sizzling foundation for browning ground beef thoroughly, meticulously fragmenting the meat with a sturdy utensil while eliminating superfluous grease.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to transform into translucent, aromatic companions dancing within the skillet’s landscape.
3. Introduce diced sweet potatoes alongside a constellation of spices – chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, freshly cracked pepper, and fiery red pepper flakes – creating a vibrant flavor profile that will permeate the entire dish.
4. Tenderly cloak the skillet with a protective lid, permitting the sweet potatoes to gradually soften and absorb the complex spice medley, stirring occasionally to prevent potential scorching.
5. Integrate black beans, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, and golden corn kernels, allowing these ingredients to harmonize and simmer, transforming the mixture into a cohesive, robust southwestern treasure.
6. For cheese enthusiasts, delicately cascade shredded cheese across the skillet’s surface, creating a molten blanket that gently melts and embraces the underlying ingredients.
7. Conclude the culinary journey by removing from heat, generously garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro and presenting alongside bright, tangy lime wedges to awaken the palate.

Notes

• Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier dish without compromising flavor.
• Dice sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing red pepper flakes and chili powder according to personal heat preference.
• For vegetarian adaptation, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra firm tofu for protein-packed alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Southwestern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg