Craving a meal that’s both hearty and healthy? The Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that captivate your taste buds. This one-pan dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner choice for busy families.
Featuring tender ground beef paired with the natural sweetness of simmered sweet potatoes, this skillet recipe brings a burst of Southwest flair to your table. Furthermore, with its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s an easy option for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without the fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting yet nutritious meal. This dish combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a delightful harmony that appeals to all tastes. Moreover, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
You’ll also appreciate the versatility of this recipe; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. If you enjoy fusion flavors, consider pairing it with a side of Korean Ground Beef Bowl for an exciting twist on dinner!
This skillet dish is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring you feel satisfied without sacrificing flavor. The colorful presentation and delicious aroma make it a standout choice not just for family meals but also for gatherings. Dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe and discover a new favorite!
Ingredients for Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe:
Preparation is key for this delicious Southwest skillet ground beef and sweet potato recipe. Gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 1 pound lean ground beef (96% lean)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 packet low sodium taco seasoning, divided
- 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can green chilis (4 oz, optional)
- 1/4 cup beef stock (or water as a substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 3/4 cup lite shredded Mexican cheese
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, diced
For topping, consider adding:
- Sliced tomatoes
- Avocado
- Salsa
- Greek yogurt
- Queso
- Tortilla chips
- Jalapeño crema
This blend of ingredients not only packs flavor but also a nutritional punch. For those who adore unique flavors, consider complementing this meal with a Cajun Jambalaya Soup that showcases similar ingredients in a different dish!
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Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal packed with protein and nutrients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1/2 tbsp avocado oil
or olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
5 cloves garlic
minced
2 medium sweet potatoes
1 small white onion
1 red bell pepper
1 small jalapeño
1 packet low sodium taco seasoning
divided
1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes
14.5 oz
1 can green chilis
4oz
optional
1/4 cup beef stock
sub water if needed
1 lime
juiced
3/4 cup lite shredded Mexican cheese
3 tbsp fresh cilantro
diced
sliced tomatoes
avocado
salsa
greek yogurt
queso
tortilla chips
Jalapeno Crema
Instructions
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño, cooking until softened.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and half of the taco seasoning, stirring well.
- Pour in the fire roasted tomatoes, green chilis (if using), and beef stock; bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Remove the lid, add the lime juice, remaining taco seasoning, and cheese; stir to combine.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving with your choice of toppings.
Notes
Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. This dish pairs well with crunchy tortilla chips or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skillet portion
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Southwest Skillet, Ground Beef, Sweet Potato, Recipe, One-Pan Meal
How to Prepare Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe:
To create a delicious Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato dish, begin by heating 1/2 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Incorporate 5 cloves of minced garlic, 1 finely chopped onion, and a diced red bell pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it cook until the vegetables soften.
Next, peel and dice 2 medium sweet potatoes. Add them to the skillet along with a finely chopped jalapeño, 1 packet of low-sodium taco seasoning, and the fire-roasted diced tomatoes. For extra flavor, pour in 1/4 cup of beef stock and let the mixture simmer. Finally, finish with a generous squeeze of lime juice, sprinkle 3/4 cup of lite Mexican cheese, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
Serve this hearty dish with toppings like sliced tomatoes, avocado, or salsa for an extra flavor boost. For more flavorful ideas, you can check out this Cajun Jambalaya Soup Recipe that also packs a punch! Discover further details on the Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe here. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips for Perfect Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe:
To create a delicious Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato recipe, focus on using fresh ingredients. Start with lean ground beef for a healthier option, while sweet potatoes should be firm and unblemished for the best flavor. When cooking, dice the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Consider adding your favorite spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika, to enhance the dish’s Southwest flair. Remember to sauté the beef first, allowing the meat to brown for extra depth of flavor. If you enjoy a creamy texture, top your dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a quick snack to complement your meal, try making some mini cheesecakes. They provide a delightful contrast to the savory skillet dish. Lastly, garnish your Southwest meal with fresh cilantro or avocado for that extra touch of freshness. Enjoy your cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe:
When serving the Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe, consider pairing it with fresh sides to enhance its flavors. A refreshing green salad with chickpeas and a zesty lime vinaigrette can provide a delightful contrast. You could also serve it alongside warm tortillas for extra texture. For those seeking to add a touch of richness, a dollop of guacamole or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the dish remarkably.
Additionally, if you want to explore more culinary options, try incorporating this dish with a side of creamy garlic Parmesan melting potatoes. These potatoes blend beautifully with the savory ground beef, making each bite a delightful experience.
Furthermore, for a sweet ending to your meal, consider serving mini cheesecakes or lemon bars for dessert. The combination of flavors will leave your guests impressed and satisfied, showcasing the versatility of your culinary skills.
Storage Tips for Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe:
Store any leftover Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. If you’re looking for a delicious twist, consider pairing it with a breakfast burrito bowl for a satisfying meal. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are the main ingredients in the Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe?
The main ingredients include ground beef, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and various spices like cumin and chili powder. Each component enhances the dish’s robust flavors, creating a satisfying, nutritious meal.
Can I substitute the ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Alternatively, plant-based proteins or lentils work well for a vegetarian option, maintaining the dish’s heartiness.
How long does the Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato take to cook?
This skillet dish typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. The timing depends on how well the sweet potatoes are cooked, so keep an eye on them for tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Southwest Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it easily for quick meals throughout the week.
Can this dish be made in advance and frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the Southwest Skillet Ground Beef and Sweet Potato dish. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This flavorful skillet pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or corn tortillas. For a spicier twist, consider serving it alongside homemade spicy tuna onigiri for a delightful contrast.