This Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is a cozy and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with tender sweet potatoes and flavorful beef, all cooked in one pan!
It’s super easy to make, and who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal cleanup? I enjoy adding some spices for a little kick. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You could substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option like tempeh or lentils if you want a vegetarian meal. I prefer using lean beef for less grease!
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a lovely sweetness and texture. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can work too. Just adjust cooking times as needed, since different potatoes cook at different rates.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. You can replace it with kale or Swiss chard if you have those on hand. Frozen spinach can also be used—just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika enhance flavor. If you’re short on spices, you can use taco seasoning instead, and it gives a nice kick. I love adding chili powder for an extra heat boost, but feel free to skip it if you prefer milder dishes.
How Do You Get Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sweet potatoes just right is key to this dish. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to get them perfectly cooked:
- Dice the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Start them in a hot skillet with oil to create that nice caramelization.
- Cook them covered for the first part to steam them a bit. This helps them soften faster!
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking, about 8-10 minutes total.
- If they seem too firm after 10 minutes, you can add a splash of water and cover for a few more minutes.
Following this method will give you sweet potatoes that are tender and delicious in your skillet!
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: avocado slices, for serving
Time Needed:
This Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. You want them to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, push the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This adds a lovely flavor to your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Beef:
Now, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, don’t forget to drain it!
4. Season It Up:
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you are using it), salt, and black pepper. This will give your dish a delicious flavor profile. Stir everything well!
5. Finish with Spinach:
Mix the sweet potatoes back in with the beef mixture. Then, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts, which will take about 1-2 minutes. Make sure everything is well combined!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Taste your dish, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and flavor. Serve immediately, adding avocado slices on top if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
I hope you love this Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet as much as I do! It’s a wholesome, colorful dish that feeds both the tummy and the soul. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey and chicken are great substitutes if you prefer a leaner meat option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, making sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or even frozen peas. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so adjust as necessary.
Is This Recipe Freezer Friendly?
Definitely! You can freeze the cooked skillet meal in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
