When I first whipped up this Wholesome Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet on a hectic weeknight, I never guessed it would become one of my go-to dinners. With every sizzle in that single skillet, a humble mix of ground beef, sweet orange cubes of sweet potatoes, and colorful bell peppers transforms into a vibrant, comforting meal. This flavor-packed one-pan wonder balances rich, savory meat with the natural sweetness of the potatoes—elevating a simple dish into something really special. As the beef browns and the spices toast—cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder—the air fills with enticing warmth, promising a satisfying bite in every forkful.
On top of its delicious depth, this skillet is a dream for busy cooks: a beginner-friendly recipe that requires just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of cooking. You’ll find it’s perfect for lunch or dinner, clocking in at roughly 450 calories per serving. Beyond how tasty it is, it’s a nutritious, balanced meal featuring protein, fiber, and vitamins—all without complicated techniques. Whether you’re feeding hungry teenagers, prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving something hearty but wholesome, this ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet delivers in taste, ease, and that cozy satisfaction we all look for after a busy day.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATOES SKILLET
Before you fire up the skillet, let’s make sure you have the essentials lined up. Each ingredient plays an important role in building layers of flavor, texture, and nutrition—from the savory foundation to the bright finishing touch.
- Ground beef
A hearty source of protein and rich umami character that forms the savory backbone of the dish. It browns beautifully, soaking up spices and juices.
- Sweet potatoes
Tender, slightly sweet cubes that balance the richness of the beef. They bring a creamy texture and boost fiber, vitamins, and color.
- Onion
When diced and sautéed until translucent, onion provides subtle sweetness and depth to every bite.
- Garlic
Minced garlic lends a fragrant, aromatic kick. It melds with spices to heighten the savory profile.
- Bell pepper
Any color works—red, green, or yellow. Diced bell peppers add sweet crunch and freshness.
- Ground cumin
Earthy and warm, cumin infuses the beef with a lightly nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Smoked paprika
Brings a gentle smokiness and vibrant color that elevates the overall taste.
- Chili powder
A mild heat source that adds a subtle kick without overpowering the other spices.
- Salt
Enhances all the natural flavors and spices, making every ingredient shine.
- Black pepper
Delivers a sharp, peppery bite to lift the richness of the meat and sweet potatoes.
- Olive oil
Used for sautéing, it helps the onions, garlic, and sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop flavor without sticking.
- Beef broth or water
Keeps the sweet potatoes moist during simmering, creating a light sauce that brings everything together.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous finish and a pop of green on top of the skillet.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATOES SKILLET
This one-pan meal comes together in a few straightforward stages: sauté aromatics, brown the meat, cook the sweet potatoes, then bring everything back together. You’ll love how simple steps create such a well-rounded, comforting dish.
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent, about 3–4 minutes. This gentle sauté releases their natural sweetness.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown too much and become bitter.
3. Push the onion and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Use a spoon or spatula to break it into small pieces, cooking until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, roughly 7–8 minutes.
4. Once the beef is cooked through, carefully drain excess fat from the skillet if there’s more than a tablespoon remaining, leaving just enough to coat the pan.
5. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so each piece of beef is evenly coated in aromatic spices.
6. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest briefly.
7. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper, cooking for about 5–6 minutes until the edges begin to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
9. Uncover the pan and return the beef mixture to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to heat through.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a bright, herbaceous finish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATOES SKILLET
There’s something so satisfying about scooping this vibrant skillet onto a plate and kicking back for a flavorful meal. Whether you’re serving family-style straight from the pan or plating individual portions, consider these ideas to elevate each serving into a memorable dining experience. The combination of savory beef, sweet potatoes, and warming spices pairs beautifully with fresh, creamy, and cheesy accompaniments that bring texture contrasts and pops of flavor.
- Cheesy Meltdown
Just before serving, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack over the hot skillet. Cover briefly until the cheese melts into gooey ribbons, adding creamy richness.
- Creamy Dollop
Top each portion with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The cool tang provides a luscious counterpoint to the warm spices and sweet vegetables.
- Bright Side Salad
Serve alongside a crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. The fresh crunch and acidity lighten the meal beautifully.
- Warm Tortillas
Spoon the mixture into soft corn or flour tortillas for instant tacos or wraps. Add a squeeze of lime, chopped cilantro, and a dash of hot sauce for a fun twist.
HOW TO STORE GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATOES SKILLET
This skillet isn’t just a one-time wonder—it makes fantastic leftovers and is perfect for meal prep. When stored properly, it retains its flavor, texture, and satisfying personality. Here are some tried-and-true methods to keep your dish tasting fresh day after day:
- Refrigerator
Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. Store on a shelf rather than in the door to maintain a consistent cool temperature. Enjoy within 3 days for best taste.
- Freezer
Portion the cooled mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little headroom for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Individual Portions
Divide the cooled skillet into single-serving meal prep containers. This makes grab-and-go lunches effortless—just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Reheating Tips
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to revive moisture. Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
CONCLUSION
This Flavor-Packed Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet has everything you love about a comforting, nourishing dinner without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. We’ve walked through each key ingredient, uncovered the secrets of bold spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder, and demonstrated how a few simple steps—sautéing onions, browning beef, simmering sweet potatoes—can yield a one-pan wonder that’s both beginner-friendly and crowd-pleasing. With only 15 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking, and zero rest time, you have a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour, clocking in at around 450 calories per serving. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or prepping meals for workweek lunches, this dish adapts brilliantly, storing well in the fridge for three days or even freezing for longer enjoyment.
Feel free to print this article and save it for future reference, tucking it into your recipe binder or pinning it on your meal-planning board. You’ll also find a FAQ section below with answers to common questions—everything from spice swaps to reheating tricks—so you can confidently make this recipe your own. If you try this skillet or have any thoughts, questions, or ideas to share, leave a comment or drop me a note. I love hearing how readers customize the recipe—maybe you’ll add a dash of hot sauce, swap in ground turkey, or top it with avocado. Your feedback and stories are what make cooking so much fun and keep us all inspired!
Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet
Description
Savor the rich, savory flavors of ground beef combined with sweet potatoes in this easy skillet dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's nutritious and satisfying!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Push the onion and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
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Once the beef is cooked through, drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
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Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the spices with the beef.
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Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
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Pour in the beef broth or water, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
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Return the beef mixture to the skillet, mix everything together, and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Note
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a leaner option.
- Top with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
- Adjust the spices to your taste for a more or less spicy dish.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
