When you think of a hearty and wholesome meal, the Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet undoubtedly deserves a spot on your table. This dish blends the rich flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all seasoned with a delightful mix of spices that really bring the flavors to life. It’s warm, filling, and packed with nutrients that will keep you energized, making it a favorite among families and meal preppers alike. Not only does it taste great, but it also comes together quickly, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal even on the busiest days.
Why We Love This Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
This skillet dish perfectly marries convenience with flavor. One of the main reasons you will fall in love with this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or even a meal prepping option for the week ahead. The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, while the combination of ingredients offers a balanced meal full of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Plus, it’s low in prep time and doesn’t involve a ton of dishes, which means less hassle in the kitchen.
The spices play a monumental role in elevating the dish. The chili powder provides a warm kick, while the garlic and onion add depth. Sweet potatoes enrich the meal with carbohydrates, making it a satisfying option that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish. By adding healthful ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, and avocado for garnish, you’re ensuring every bite is nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients about Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
To bring this flavorful dish to life, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 2.5 cups sweet potato, skin on – diced (approx. 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup onion, diced (1 medium)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 6 ounces baby spinach
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (eliminate for paleo version)
- 1 cup fresh tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
How to Make Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet Directions
Creating this lovely Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is straightforward and uncomplicated. Start by browning the ground beef in a large cast iron skillet. It’s best to heat the skillet over medium-high heat so that the beef can sear nicely, providing that rich, golden-brown exterior. After a few minutes of stirring, add your chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Give everything a good stir to ensure the beef is coated in the spice mix. Continue cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the beef is completely browned. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Next, wipe out any residual fat from the skillet to keep the dish light. Add the diced sweet potatoes and pour in about half a cup of water. Cover the skillet and allow the sweet potatoes to cook for about 5 minutes or until they’ve softened and the water has been absorbed. The sweet potatoes will develop a lovely texture during this step, setting the base for your dish.
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the cover and add in your diced onion, bell pepper, and chopped garlic. Sprinkle in the remaining spices and pour in an extra 1/4 cup of water to avoid sticking. Stir everything together as you let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and tender. If the mixture starts to stick to the pan, don’t hesitate to add a bit more water, a quarter cup at a time, to deglaze the bottom.
With the veggies cooked, it’s time to bring back the ground beef. Mix it into the skillet with the vegetables and sweet potatoes, stirring everything together well. Then add the baby spinach, covering the skillet for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted down. This step enhances the health factor of the dish while also adding beautiful color.
Once the spinach is nicely wilted, remove the skillet from the heat. Top your flavorful creation with shredded cheddar, freshly diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado for a creamy finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal that feels as wonderful as it tastes.
How to Serve Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
Serving this dish is all about presenting the vibrant colors and inviting aroma. This hearty skillet meal can be served straight from the pan, which adds to the rustic charm. You can dish it up in individual plates for family-style dining or allow your guests to serve themselves directly from the skillet.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the skillet with a fresh green salad on the side, perhaps dressed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. The fresh salad will complement the hearty rice and offer a refreshing contrast in texture. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside a warm tortilla or over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for added fullness.
Don’t forget to garnish with additional avocado slices, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, if you’d like a creamier touch. The contrasting textures and flavors will create a delightful eating experience, making this meal not just filling, but also enjoyable.
Expert Tips: Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
To make your cooking experience even better, here are some expert tips that can enhance your dish:
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excessive fat. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference. If you enjoy a little more heat, adding cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños would work wonders.
- Cut Uniformly: When dicing your sweet potatoes and other vegetables, try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible for even cooking.
- Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the fridge, so consider making a double batch for efficient meal prep.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Any leftovers can also be used in various ways—stuff it in a wrap, toss into an omelet, or even mix it into a soup for added flavor.
How to Store Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
Storing your Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is quite easy, and it can elevate your meals for the coming days. After you finish your meal, make sure the skillet cools down to room temperature, and then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Refrigerate the dish, where it can last for 3 to 4 days.
If you would like to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variation of Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
One of the greatest joys of cooking is the ability to mix things up. Here are some delicious variations you can make to this basic recipe:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or chickpeas. These options will keep the dish hearty while adding plant-based protein.
- Spice it Up: Explore various spices to add a unique twist. Cumin, paprika, or even taco seasoning can bring a different vibe to your skillet.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try sprinkling nutritional yeast on top instead of cheddar. This will add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Top It Off: Experiment with different toppings like Greek yogurt, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Each will bring a different flavor profile, making it a new dish each time you prepare it.
- Different Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or even kale for a refreshing change. As the seasons change, so can your sweet potato and ground beef skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet a good meal choice?
This skillet dish combines wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and lean ground beef, creating a balanced meal rich in nutrients. The variety of vegetables and spices provides flavor and sustenance, keeping you full and satisfied.
Can I adjust the spice levels in this Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste preferences. You can reduce the chili powder for a milder dish or add heat with some cayenne or jalapeños. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility.
How long does Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet last in the fridge?
When properly stored in an airtight container, this dish can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping!
Is Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Store cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I make Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet vegetarian?
Definitely! You can easily substitute ground beef with black beans, lentils, or chickpeas to create a vegetarian version. It’s equally satisfying and packed with nutrition.
Southwestern Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Opt for lean ground beef.
- 2 tbsp chili powder Adjust for spice preference.
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 2.5 cups sweet potato, diced (approx. 2 medium) Skin on for better texture.
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup onion, diced (1 medium)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 6 ounces baby spinach
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Eliminate for paleo version.
- 1 cup fresh tomato, diced
- 1 whole avocado, sliced
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until seared and golden-brown.
- Add chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to coat beef in the spice mix. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, wiping out any residual fat.
Cooking
- Add diced sweet potatoes and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and chopped garlic to the skillet. Pour in an extra 1/4 cup of water and stir. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Return the ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables and sweet potatoes.
- Add baby spinach, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Top with shredded cheddar, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado before serving.
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