Southwestern Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This Southwestern Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal combining lean ground beef with sweet potatoes, black beans, and a blend of southwestern spices. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make, featuring a melty cheese topping and a balance of savory and spicy flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Other Ingredients
- 1 15 ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheese, optional
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef and vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Break the beef into large chunks and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat to reduce grease.
- Add spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add sweet potatoes, beans, and water: Mix in the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, drained black beans, and one cup of water. Stir everything together well, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Simmer until tender: Cook covered for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Evaporate excess liquid: Remove the lid and cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate, thickening the mixture.
- Add cheese and melt: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and replace the lid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt nicely into the dish.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite toppings to add extra flavor and texture if desired.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef reduces excess grease and makes the dish healthier.
- If dairy-free, omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- Serve with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat easily on the stovetop or microwave.
