If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and wholesome meal that comes together in one pan, look no further than this Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. Combining tender, spiced ground beef with sweet, caramelized potatoes and vibrant greens, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this skillet packs the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh elements that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each one bringing a unique taste or texture that makes this skillet truly shine. From the lean ground beef for protein to the sweet potatoes that add a delightful sweetness and creaminess, every component plays a crucial role in creating the magic of this recipe.
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10): Provides savory flavor and plenty of protein without excess fat.
- 1 small onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed until translucent.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the potatoes perfectly and brings out the flavors.
- 3 cups sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into ½” cubes): The star ingredient offering natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch to the skillet.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings warmth and subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy, smoky notes essential to southwest cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts that garlic flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- 2 cups kale (shredded): Brings freshness and a healthy dose of greens.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, optional): Melts into gooey goodness for extra richness.
- ½ cup cilantro (chopped for serving): Provides a bright, herbaceous finish.
- 1 avocado (sliced for serving): Creamy texture that balances the spices and adds healthy fats.
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the lean ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat if needed, then transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside. This step is key because perfectly browned beef adds rich flavor and a satisfying texture to the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Without cleaning the pan (because all those flavorful browned bits are precious), add the finely diced onion next. Sauté over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and softened. This process softens the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness that beautifully complements the spicy beef.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, then toss in the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook these on medium-high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, so they brown nicely on the outside but become tender inside. This step develops a lovely caramelized flavor that contrasts perfectly with the spices.
Step 4: Combine Beef and Onions with Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, return the cooked beef and onions to the skillet. Mixing these together at this stage integrates the savory beef flavors with the sweet potatoes, creating a harmonious base for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for about one minute to allow the spices to bloom and the garlic to release its aroma. This seasoning blend is what gives the skillet its signature southwest flavor profile.
Step 6: Incorporate the Kale
Add the shredded kale next and mix it well throughout the skillet. Cover the pan and let the kale cook down for a few minutes until it softens. The kale not only adds vibrant color but also a nutritional boost, balancing the meat and potatoes with its earthy tone.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese (Optional)
If you’re opting for cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt until gooey and delicious, usually just a few minutes. This addition makes the dish even more comforting and indulgent.
Step 8: Finish with Fresh Toppings
Turn off the heat and top your skillet with fresh chopped cilantro and sliced avocado. These garnishes add freshness and creaminess that perfectly contrast with the spiced meat and sweet potatoes. Serving with salsa or hot sauce on the side amps up the flavors even more.
How to Serve Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Cilantro and avocado slices are absolutely my favorite way to finish this skillet. The cilantro’s herbaceous brightness cuts through the rich and hearty flavor, while creamy avocado adds a silky texture that is just heavenly. A squeeze of fresh lime or a dollop of sour cream can also brighten up the dish even further.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like warm corn tortillas for scooping or a fresh, crunchy salad to add extra freshness. For those who want a little extra carb, a side of Mexican rice or black beans complements the southwest flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this skillet mixture stuffed into warm pita pockets or between toasted sandwich buns for a delicious taco or sandwich vibe. You can also scoop the mixture onto baked tortillas chips for an irresistible southwest-style nacho platter that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal even tastier. Just be sure to cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this skillet in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best results, freeze portions that are around single meal size. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the skillet seems dry while warming, add a splash of water or broth to keep the sweet potatoes tender and prevent sticking. Microwaving works well too but be careful not to overheat and dry out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this recipe and makes it a bit leaner. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as turkey tends to be milder than beef.
What if I don’t have kale? Can I substitute it?
You can swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the green you choose.
Is this recipe spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
It has a nice moderate kick from the chili powder and red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the spiciness by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes, or adding extra if you like it hotter.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or black beans to keep it vegetarian. Be sure to use vegetable broth or olive oil when cooking the sweet potatoes and onions.
How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Using enough olive oil and stirring regularly while cooking over medium-high heat helps prevent sticking. Also, using a well-seasoned or nonstick skillet makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts
This Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe truly is a gem for anyone who loves bold flavor without fuss. It combines wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and simple to prepare, delivering a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet, gather these ingredients, and dive into a dish that’s full of southwest spirit and deliciousness you can feel good about. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and hearty Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet combining lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant kale, seasoned with classic southwestern spices and optionally topped with melted cheddar cheese, cilantro, and fresh avocado slices. This quick and easy one-pan meal delivers a satisfying balance of protein, vegetables, and bold flavors perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½” cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups kale, shredded
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped (for serving)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
Oils and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Optional
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and transfer the beef to a plate; set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Remove and set aside with the beef.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet then add the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the sweet potatoes are browned and tender inside.
- Combine Beef and Onions: Return the cooked ground beef and onions to the skillet with the sweet potatoes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Cook Kale: Add the shredded kale to the skillet and mix well. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the kale cook down for a few minutes until wilted.
- Melt Cheese (Optional): If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the skillet contents, cover with the lid again, and let the cheese melt for a few minutes.
- Serve: Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sliced avocado on the side. Optional accompaniments include salsa and hot sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease during cooking.
- Sweet potatoes should be cut into uniform ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Adjust chili powder and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or cooked lentils.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
