If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Packed with the perfect blend of warm spices, tender sweet potatoes, and juicy ground beef, this skillet dish bursts with vibrant colors and satisfying textures that will excite your taste buds every time. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or simply want a comforting, nutritious meal for yourself, this recipe hits all the right notes with ease and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is half the fun with this recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, from bringing smoky, spicy layers to making the dish visually inviting, to adding that perfect melt of cheese that pulls everything together.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The protein-packed base that adds hearty richness without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that softens beautifully when cooked.
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced: Adds a crisp pop of color and a mild sweetness to balance the spices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for browning the beef and sautéing the veggies to delicious perfection.
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, diced in 1-inch cubes: The star carb, offering natural sweetness and a pleasing bite.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Gives the skillet its bold southwest flair with just the right kick.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a subtle smoky nuance that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel, fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles, drained: Delivers a zesty, juicy punch that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for creamy, tangy goodness that makes every bite extra indulgent.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens and complements the rich flavors.
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat to get it sizzling just right. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s fully browned with no pink remaining—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once ready, carefully drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling too heavy, but save a little fat for all the flavor that follows.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Bell Peppers
Into the skillet with the beef, toss the diced onions and red bell peppers. Cook them gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. As the veggies mingle with the beef, sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir for about 30 seconds to toast the spices, letting their intoxicating aromas envelop the kitchen.
Step 3: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Rotel
Now it’s time to add those colorful sweet potatoes that make this dish so special. Stir them in along with the drained can of fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles from Rotel. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for around 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the potatoes to soften just enough without becoming mushy.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Add Cilantro
Once your skillet mixture is hot and savory, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan just long enough for the cheese to melt into gooey, delicious layers. Finish by scattering chopped cilantro on top for that burst of fresh herbal brightness that ties all the flavors together wonderfully.
How to Serve Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado alongside the freshly chopped cilantro. These garnishes will add creaminess and cooling contrast to the smoky, spicy skillet.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal by itself, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad or warm corn tortillas make excellent companions. Their light textures and subtle flavors balance the richness of the beef and the sweetness of the potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe in individual cast iron skillets. This invites a rustic, cozy vibe that’s perfect for dinner parties or family meals, making everyone feel like they’re getting a special portion crafted just for them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover skillet is fantastic for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Allow it to cool completely before transferring into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing any of its delicious character.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead on a larger scale, this dish freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring your Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe back to life, gently reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You can also microwave individual servings, just be sure to cover to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lighter alternative that works beautifully in this skillet while still soaking up all those bold southwest flavors. Just remember to cook it thoroughly as you would the beef.
Should I peel the sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients, and the skins soften nicely when cooked. However, if you prefer a smoother bite, feel free to peel them before dicing.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle kick due to the chili powder and fire-roasted tomatoes with green chiles, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the chili powder or omit the chiles if you want to mellow it out.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked black beans to keep the hearty texture while making it vegetarian-friendly. The spices and sweet potatoes still shine through wonderfully.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, with wholesome ingredients and no additives containing gluten. Just double-check your canned tomatoes and spices to ensure they’re labeled gluten-free for peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is truly a weeknight winner that combines simplicity with gourmet taste. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with delicious, comforting goodness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for this vibrant, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any busy evening.
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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This Southwest Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet is a flavorful and hearty 30-minute dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with sweet potatoes and seasoned with delicious southwest spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, this dish combines savory, spicy, and fresh flavors in one comforting skillet meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, diced in 1-inch cubes, peeled or unpeeled
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles, drained
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the lean ground beef. Cook and crumble the beef until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper: Add the diced onions and red bell pepper to the browned beef in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just softened and fragrant.
- Add and Toast Spices: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook the spices with the beef and vegetables for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, enhancing the dish’s southwest flavor.
- Incorporate Rotel and Simmer: Pour the drained Rotel fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a light simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Finish and Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and sweet potatoes in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to let the cheese melt. Finally, garnish the dish with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh touch.
Notes
- Sweet potatoes can be peeled or left unpeeled depending on preference and added texture.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease in the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hot Rotel variety.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mexican
