Finding new and exciting Recipes With Ground Beef can sometimes feel like a challenge. We all tend to get stuck in the same routine.
You might default to tacos or spaghetti every week. While those are delicious, sometimes you need a change of pace. You want something different.
That is where this Southwest Skillet comes in. It is fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It transforms humble ingredients into something special.
This dish is one of those Quick Dinner Ideas that will save your weeknight. It comes together in just about 30 minutes. That is faster than ordering takeout.
The combination of savory beef and sweet potatoes is a winner. The textures contrast beautifully. You get tender potatoes and juicy meat in every bite.
If you are looking for healthy Easy Meals With Ground Beef, look no further. This recipe is packed with protein and veggies. It is a wholesome choice for the whole family.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, it is a one-pan wonder. You cook everything in a single large skillet. That means fewer dishes to wash at the end of the night.
We all love meals that minimize cleanup. It makes the cooking process so much more enjoyable. You can relax instead of scrubbing pots.
Second, it is budget-friendly. Ground beef and sweet potatoes are generally affordable staples. You can feed a family of four without breaking the bank.
Many Recipes With Ground Beef require expensive add-ons. This one relies on pantry spices and simple vegetables. It proves that good food does not have to be pricey.
Third, the flavor profile is fantastic. The sweetness of the potato balances the spicy chili powder. The fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth.
It is distinct from other Ground Beef Dishes you might be used to. It feels light yet comforting at the same time.
Finally, it is great for meal prep. The leftovers taste even better the next day. You can pack it for lunch and look forward to it all morning.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this dish. The list is simple and straightforward.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 5 teaspoons chili powder (divided)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
- 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes
- 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 4 ounces canned diced green chiles
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Let’s talk about the beef. I recommend using lean ground beef, like 90/10 or 93/7. It keeps the dish from being too greasy.
If you use a higher fat content, you might want to drain the excess fat. This keeps it one of the healthier Recipes With Ground Beef.
For the sweet potatoes, cut them into small, even cubes. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. About half an inch is perfect.
The fire-roasted tomatoes are key. They have a richer flavor than standard canned tomatoes. They bring that charred, Southwest taste right into your kitchen.
Step-By-Step Instructions
This recipe moves fast. Have your veggies chopped and spices measured before you start cooking.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your olive oil and let it warm up for a moment. It should shimmer slightly.
Add the ground beef and the diced onion to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart. You want it to crumble nicely.
Now, season the meat. Add 1 tablespoon (which is 3 teaspoons) of the chili powder. Add 1 teaspoon of the cumin as well.
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Stir it all while it cooks. The spices will start to smell amazing as they toast with the beef.
Once the beef is nearly cooked through and no longer pink, stir in the grated garlic. Cook for just one more minute. Garlic burns fast, so keep an eye on it.
Remove the beef mixture from the pan. Pour it onto a clean plate and set it aside. Wipe the skillet out carefully with a paper towel.
Step 2: Simmer the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add your diced sweet potatoes. Pour in the can of fire-roasted tomatoes and the green chiles. Add the water too.
Season this mixture with the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add a pinch more salt and pepper.
Stir everything together well. You want the spices to coat the potatoes. The liquid helps steam the potatoes so they become tender.
Cover the skillet with a lid. Lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes.
Check the potatoes with a fork. They should pierce easily. If they are still hard, give them another few minutes covered.
Step 3: Combine and Melt
Once the potatoes are soft, it is time to bring it all together. Add the cooked beef mixture back into the skillet with the potatoes.
Stir gently to combine the flavors. The beef will warm back up instantly. The colors should look vibrant and appetizing.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover with the lid again for just about one minute.
You want the cheese to get gooey and fully melted. Remove the lid and turn off the heat.
Top with fresh chopped cilantro if you like. Serve it immediately while it is hot and bubbly.
How To Store Leftovers
Leftovers are one of the best parts of this recipe. It reheats wonderfully for lunch the next day.
Allow the skillet to cool down completely before storing. This prevents condensation from making the food soggy in the fridge.
Transfer the food to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
To reheat, you can use the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals until it is hot throughout. You can also warm it in a skillet with a splash of water.
Can you freeze it? Yes, you can. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Keep in mind that sweet potatoes might be slightly softer after freezing. But it will still taste delicious.
Tips
Customizing Recipes With Ground Beef is easy, and this one is no exception. Here are a few ways to make it your own.
If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also use hot green chiles instead of mild ones.
For a lighter version, try ground turkey or chicken. The seasoning works well with any ground meat. It remains one of the best Quick Dinner Ideas regardless of the protein.
Want to add more veggies? Bell peppers or zucchini are great additions. Add them when you cook the onions in the first step.
Serve this dish in different ways. It is great on its own in a bowl. However, it also makes a fantastic taco filling.
You can spoon it over rice or cauliflower rice for extra bulk. This stretches the meal further if you have extra guests.
Toppings can change the vibe completely. Sour cream, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice all add freshness.
Don’t skip the step of wiping out the skillet. It prevents the beef bits from burning while the potatoes simmer.
Shred your own cheese if you have time. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly.
Conclusion
This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet proves that dinner does not have to be complicated. It is simple, fast, and full of bold flavors.
With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours. It is one of those Recipes With Ground Beef that you will return to often.
Whether you are a beginner cook or just busy, this dish delivers. It satisfies the craving for comfort food while keeping things healthy.
Next time you are stuck looking for Quick Dinner Ideas, give this a try. Your family will thank you.
FAQ
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. They usually cook faster than fresh ones. Keep an eye on them so they do not get too mushy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spice blends and canned goods to ensure no hidden gluten additives are present.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply omit the cheddar cheese at the end. You can garnish with avocado to keep that creamy texture without the dairy.
Are there other tasty Recipes With Ground Beef I can make?
Ground beef is incredibly versatile. Beyond this skillet, you can make meatloaf, chili, shepherd’s pie, or Korean beef bowls. It is a staple for a reason.
Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
A savory, flavorful, and easy one-pan skillet featuring lean ground beef and tender sweet potatoes. This budget-friendly dish is ready in under an hour, making it a perfect quick dinner idea or a great meal prep option.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your olive oil and let it warm up for a moment. It should shimmer slightly.
- Add the ground beef and the diced onion to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart. You want it to crumble nicely.
- Now, season the meat. Add 1 tablespoon (which is 3 teaspoons) of the chili powder. Add 1 teaspoon of the cumin as well.
- Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Stir it all while it cooks. The spices will start to smell amazing as they toast with the beef.
- Once the beef is nearly cooked through and no longer pink, stir in the grated garlic. Cook for just one more minute. Garlic burns fast, so keep an eye on it.
- Remove the beef mixture from the pan. Pour it onto a clean plate and set it aside. Wipe the skillet out carefully with a paper towel.
- In the same skillet, add your diced sweet potatoes. Pour in the can of fire-roasted tomatoes and the green chiles. Add the water too.
- Season this mixture with the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add a pinch more salt and pepper.
- Stir everything together well. You want the spices to coat the potatoes. The liquid helps steam the potatoes so they become tender.
- Cover the skillet with a lid. Lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes.
- Check the potatoes with a fork. They should pierce easily. If they are still hard, give them another few minutes covered.
- Once the potatoes are soft, it is time to bring it all together. Add the cooked beef mixture back into the skillet with the potatoes.
- Stir gently to combine the flavors. The beef will warm back up instantly. The colors should look vibrant and appetizing.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover with the lid again for just about one minute.
- You want the cheese to get gooey and fully melted. Remove the lid and turn off the heat.
- Top with fresh chopped cilantro if you like. Serve it immediately while it is hot and bubbly.
Notes
For even cooking, cut your sweet potatoes into uniform, small cubes, about half an inch. This ensures they soften efficiently in the skillet.
Using lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) helps keep the dish from being too greasy. If using higher fat content, drain any excess fat after browning.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth that elevates the overall flavor. Don’t skip wiping the skillet after browning the beef; this prevents burnt bits from affecting the taste of your potatoes.
Consider shredding your own cheese for a smoother melt, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition
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