Alright, come on in, grab an apron – let’s make something delicious! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute go-to recipes with you. It all started last year when I was trying to find a way to get my kids to eat more vegetables without a battle. You know how it is! After a bit of experimenting, I stumbled upon this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet, and it’s been a family favorite ever since.
Picture this: savory ground beef mingling with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all brought together with a smoky, slightly spicy southwest kick. The textures are just perfect – the tender sweet potatoes, the browned beef, maybe a little crispy cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy. Honestly, the smell alone will have everyone running to the kitchen!
What I love most about this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet is how incredibly easy it is to throw together, even on the busiest of weeknights. We’re talking minimal chopping, one pan, and a whole lot of flavor. My oldest, who’s usually a pretty picky eater, actually asks for seconds, and that’s always a win in my book. It’s also perfect for when you have unexpected guests. I always have the ingredients on hand, so I can whip up this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet in no time.
I’ve tweaked and perfected this recipe over the years, adding a little more of this, a little less of that, until I landed on the perfect balance of flavors. One time, I accidentally added too much chili powder, and let me tell you, it was a bit too spicy for my little ones. Live and learn, right? Now, I’m careful to use a milder chili powder. I’ve found that a little lime juice at the end really brightens up the whole southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet, adding a zing that ties everything together.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good one-pan meal? It’s so much easier to clean up afterwards! Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family. I often serve this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and maybe some chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Sometimes, if I’m feeling extra ambitious, I’ll make a quick guacamole to go with it.
This southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet has truly become a staple in our house. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. It’s one of those dishes that just feels like home, you know? I can’t wait for you to try this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet – it’s become such a staple in our house! Trust me, your family is going to love this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet as much as mine does!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – I usually use 85/15, but you can use leaner if you prefer. Just drain off any excess grease after browning.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – Make sure the dice is fairly uniform so they cook evenly.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Yellow or white onion works great.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped – Adds a nice sweetness and color.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained – I always rinse my beans really well to get rid of any extra sodium. Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, and they add a wonderful creamy texture to the skillet.
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained – Frozen corn works just as well!
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained – These add a little kick and some extra flavor. You can use plain diced tomatoes if you’re sensitive to spice. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can also add a unique depth of flavor.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) southwest seasoning – You can find these in the spice aisle, or you can make your own blend!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a nice savory note to the ground beef.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor. If you don’t like cilantro, you can use parsley.
- 1 lime, juiced – The lime juice really brightens up the flavors and adds a nice tang.
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado – These are all great ways to customize your skillet.
- Olive oil, for cooking – You can use any cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil or coconut oil are also excellent choices.
Okay, so here’s the deal with the sweet potatoes. I’ve tried using different varieties, and honestly, they all work pretty well in this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet. Sometimes I use the orange ones, sometimes the white ones, depending on what’s on sale. My kids don’t seem to notice the difference! I buy my ground beef in bulk at Costco and freeze it in one-pound portions. It’s a huge time-saver, and it’s always ready to go when I need it.
That southwest seasoning packet is my secret weapon! It has all the right spices in the perfect proportions. If you want to make your own blend, go for it! But honestly, this is so easy and convenient, and it tastes fantastic in the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use low-sodium black beans and corn. It won’t affect the flavor too much. You could also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s still delicious. The best part about this recipe is how adaptable it is! You can really make this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet your own by swapping out ingredients.
Speaking of adapting, if you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can use zucchini or squash instead. The great thing about this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet recipe is that you can use whatever veggies you have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
For cheese, my kids are obsessed with cheddar, but pepper jack or Monterey Jack would add a nice flavor too. If you are dairy-free you can omit it or use a vegan substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Getting a good sear on the beef really adds to the overall flavor of the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
- Add the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion starts to become translucent. Make sure to stir occasionally so the onion doesn’t burn. Don’t be afraid to add another splash of olive oil if the skillet seems dry. Adding aromatics like onion and bell pepper early in the cooking process helps to build a flavorful base for the entire dish.
- Incorporate the Sweet Potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are slightly softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sweet potatoes should be tender enough to pierce with a fork, but not mushy. This is a crucial step for getting the right texture in the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
- Introduce the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), southwest seasoning, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. This is where the magic happens! The flavors really come together during this simmering process. Don’t be tempted to rush this step. Covering the skillet helps to trap the steam and cook the sweet potatoes evenly.
- Season and Brighten: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste, if needed. I always taste the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes it needs a little extra salt, sometimes a little more lime juice. The lime juice adds a brightness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and/or avocado, if desired. Get creative with your toppings! This is where you can really customize the dish to your liking. My kids love to pile on the cheese and sour cream, while I prefer a dollop of guacamole.
Now, a little tip I learned the hard way: don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the ground beef. If you do, it will steam instead of brown, and you won’t get that nice, flavorful crust. It’s essential to brown the ground beef in smaller batches if necessary. Speaking of the ground beef, sometimes I use a leaner ground beef, but I find that the 85/15 has the best flavor for this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
If you don’t have a lid for your skillet, you can use a baking sheet to cover it while it simmers. This will help to trap the heat and ensure that the sweet potatoes cook evenly. Make sure to stir the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking and to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
Oh, and one more thing: don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of southwest seasoning. If you like things spicier, add a little more! If you prefer a milder flavor, use a little less. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. So, don’t be afraid to get creative with this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet recipe! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making it all the time.
Serving Ideas
We usually serve this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet family-style right in the skillet! It’s casual and easy. I usually put out a bunch of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and salsa, and everyone can customize their own portion. I love making this on busy weeknights because it’s so quick and easy to clean up! We also love this with a simple green salad on the side to add a little freshness. Sometimes I’ll make a quick cornbread to go with it too – it’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
Another great way to serve this is over rice or quinoa. It makes it a heartier meal and adds some extra nutrients. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Just spoon the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet into tortillas and add your favorite toppings. I made this for my daughter’s birthday party, and everyone loved it!
If you’re having a party, you can easily double or triple the recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser! Just make sure you have a big enough skillet or pot to cook it in. One year, I made a huge batch of this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet for our annual neighborhood potluck, and it was gone in minutes!
For a fun twist, you can also serve this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet with a fried egg on top. It adds a little extra protein and richness. My husband loves this variation! You can also add some chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
I also like to serve this with some tortilla chips for dipping. It’s like a deconstructed taco salad! The kids always fight over who gets the crispiest tortilla chips. If you want to get fancy, you can bake the tortilla chips with a little cheese on top.
Honestly, the possibilities are endless! You can really customize this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet to your liking. So, get creative and have fun with it! And don’t forget to share your creations with me – I’d love to see what you come up with!
If we somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), they make the best lunch the next day. I usually just reheat it in the microwave, but you can also reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. Just add a little water or broth to prevent it from drying out.Here’s a simple presentation tip: A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes it look fancier!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?A: Absolutely! In fact, this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this?A: Yes, this freezes really well! Let the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly.
Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?A: Of course! Ground turkey or ground chicken would work great in this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet. You could even use ground sausage for a spicier flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet. Zucchini, corn, spinach, kale, and mushrooms would all be great additions. I often add an extra can of diced tomatoes to bulk it up.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?A: The level of spice depends on the southwest seasoning you use and the diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you’re sensitive to spice, use a mild southwest seasoning and plain diced tomatoes. You can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you want to kick it up a notch. My kids usually prefer a milder version of this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?A: Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. You could also add some extra black beans or corn to make it heartier. A vegetarian version of the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet is just as satisfying!
Q: What if I don’t have southwest seasoning?A: If you don’t have southwest seasoning, you can make your own blend by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. There are tons of recipes online for homemade southwest seasoning.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Just dice them and add them to the skillet along with the other ingredients. You may need to add a little extra water or broth to prevent the southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet from drying out.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it – my family’s favorite southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet recipe! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and a great way to get more veggies into your diet. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as we do.
Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go. This is key to making any dish perfect for your palate.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. This is a great way to customize the dish and make it your own.
Let the skillet simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sweet potatoes to cook through properly.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. I remember one particularly hectic week when I was juggling work, school, and everything in between. I was exhausted and didn’t have the energy to cook anything elaborate. I threw together this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet, and it was such a lifesaver. It was quick, easy, and everyone loved it. It reminded me that sometimes the simplest meals are the best.
My son loves it with extra cheese, while my daughter prefers it plain. One of our favorite variations is to add a can of green chiles for extra spice. Another time, I added some leftover roasted chicken, and it was delicious! You can truly use whatever you have on hand to make this recipe your own.
Don’t be intimidated – if I can make this on a busy Tuesday night, you absolutely can too! This southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet is so forgiving and easy to adapt. I’d love to hear how this turns out for your family – drop me a comment below and let me know what you think! Happy cooking, and I hope this becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine! Remember that you can always sub ingredients to make this southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet suit your family’s tastes!
Enjoy your southwest ground beef and sweet potato skillet! This dish is not just about eating; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection around the dinner table. If you like this recipe, you should try my ground beef zucchini sweet potato skillet.Need something with ground turkey instead of ground beef? Check out: ground turkey and sweet potato skillet.For nutritional information on sweet potatoes, check the USDA Food Composition Database. If you need tips on eating healthy, check out the Mayo Clinic’s guide to healthy eating.
PrintSouthwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This Southwest Ground Beef Skillet is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Southwest
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and taco seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted.
- Serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of chili powder or cumin. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef, skillet, southwest, easy dinner, weeknight meal