Southwestern Beef Sweet Potato Skillet

This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort dinner that comes together quickly with zesty Southwestern flavors. It has become my weeknight go-to because it is hearty enough to feed my hungry family while packing in both nutrition and big flavor.

I first whipped this up on a whim with leftovers from taco night and it has been in my regular dinner rotation ever since. My kids especially love the gooey melted cheese on top.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein for the dish Look for meat that is at least ninety percent lean for less grease
• Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness as it caramelizes Choose firm heavy onions with no dark spots
• Red bell pepper: Gives crunch and color plus vitamin C Pick peppers with shiny skin and firm texture
• Garlic: Boosts overall flavor For best taste use fresh cloves not jarred pre-minced
• Chili powder: Essential for bold Southwestern notes Try to choose a fresh batch for best aroma
• Cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness Freshly ground is most flavorful if you can
• Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors Bigger crystals are easier to pinch and adjust to taste
• Black pepper: Gives a subtle heat best from freshly ground whole peppercorns
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth Use as a supporting player to fresh garlic
• Oregano: Brings slight herbaceous accent Dried leaves should be bright green and aromatic
• Red pepper flakes: Supplies optional heat Adjust to your preferred spice level
• Sweet potatoes: Lends sweetness plus vitamins A and C Look for firm skin and orange flesh for best texture
• Black beans: Increases fiber and makes it heartier Opt for a low sodium can rinse and drain well
• Water: Steams the veggies and brings it all together Clean filter water is all you need
• Shredded cheese: Melts for that irresistible topping Cheddar Monterey Jack or a blend all work well

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Vegetables:

Place ground beef onion bell pepper and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up beef into bite sized pieces and cook until no longer pink and the vegetables start to soften. This usually takes about eight to ten minutes. Drain off excess fat for a lighter dish.

Toast the Spices:

Sprinkle in chili powder cumin kosher salt black pepper garlic powder oregano and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for one full minute to bloom the spices releasing their oils and deepening their flavors.

Add Sweet Potatoes Beans and Water:

Fold in sweet potatoes along with black beans and pour in the water. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients so the sweet potatoes are well coated with the spices. Cover the skillet with a lid reduce heat to medium low and let everything cook undisturbed for fifteen to twenty minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and soak up all the flavors.

Simmer off Excess Liquid:

Remove the lid and increase heat slightly. Let the skillet bubble for two to three minutes to allow remaining liquid to evaporate. This helps concentrate the flavors and makes the finished skillet less soupy.

Finish with Cheese:

Turn off the heat and scatter shredded cheese evenly over the surface. Replace the lid and let it sit for five minutes. The residual warmth will melt the cheese into a gooey delicious topping ready for scooping.

My favorite ingredient by far is the sweet potato I love how the natural sweetness pairs with the bold spices for that unbeatable contrast My family especially remembers the first time we topped it with extra fresh cilantro and lime juice adding a new layer of flavor that made it truly unforgettable

Storage Tips

This skillet meal keeps well for up to four days in an airtight container in the refrigerator The flavors meld further making leftovers even tastier You can microwave portions or gently reheat in a pan over low heat If you want to freeze it portion into bags or containers and it will last about two months Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if desired To make it vegetarian leave out the meat and add extra black beans or dice up some mushrooms Sweet potatoes can be replaced with butternut squash or regular potatoes for a milder flavor If you like extra heat add diced jalapeno or increase the red pepper flakes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet as is or sprinkle with extra cheese sliced green onions cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt Fresh lime wedges squeezed over the top really brighten all the spices If you are feeding a crowd pile it into tacos or scoop it over rice

Cultural and Historical Context

Southwestern cooking is all about blending flavors from the American Southwest drawing from Mexican Spanish and Native cuisines The bold spices beans and potatoes in this dish are all classic regional ingredients As a Midwest transplant I find this skillet brings the spirit of the Southwest right to my home kitchen

Seasonal Adaptations

In the fall try using butternut or acorn squash instead of sweet potatoes In summer add fresh sweet corn right before serving for a pop of texture Early spring is the perfect time to use new potatoes or green onions as a garnish You can always adjust the veggies based on what looks freshest at the market

Success Stories

I have brought this skillet to potlucks and always bring home an empty pan Several friends now keep this recipe in their regular dinner rotation too My family requests it especially on chilly nights when we are craving something cozy and filling It is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you like doubling recipes for freezer meals prepare the chili mixture through the simmering step cool it completely then portion into freezer safe bags or containers Do not add cheese until reheating For a fast weeknight meal simply thaw reheat and top with cheese fresh

This skillet is a comforting crowd pleaser and easy to customize for any season. Try it once and it may earn a spot in your regular weeknight rotation like it did in mine.

FAQs for This Recipe

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, increase the black beans or add tofu.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust to your spice level preference.

→ Can I prepare this skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Which cheese works best for melting?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese will all melt smoothly over the hot skillet mixture.

→ What toppings pair nicely with this meal?

Avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, or green onions add fresh flavors and texture to the finished skillet.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, let the skillet cool, then freeze portions in airtight containers for up to two months. Thaw and reheat before serving.