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One-pan sweet potato and ground beef skillet with bell peppers and cilantro garnish

Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet

Emily
This hearty Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick, nutritious, and flavor-packed one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and savory spices come together to create a wholesome and satisfying dish everyone will love!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 385 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth to help cook the sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  • Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the ingredients evenly with the spices.
  • Pour in the water or beef broth, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to medium. Let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  • Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, remove the lid and let any remaining liquid evaporate. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired, cover for a minute to melt, then garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika. This recipe also works beautifully with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 385 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 420mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 26g
Keyword easy skillet meal, ground beef, healthy comfort food, one pan dinner, sweet potato