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Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a flavorful, protein-rich one-pan meal featuring caramelized sweet potatoes, seasoned beef, and colorful veggies. Quick, hearty, and ideal for meal prep.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Base Skillet Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef 85% lean recommended
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced small
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning Blend
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Finishing & Optional Add-Ins
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Sliced avocado
  • Lime wedges
  • Fried egg on top for extra protein

Equipment

  • Large cast-iron or heavy skillet
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Cook the Sweet Potatoes
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize around the edges.
  2. Season lightly with salt and pepper to help draw out moisture and speed up cooking.
Add Onion, Bell Pepper, and Garlic
  1. Once the sweet potatoes start to brown, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for another 4–5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef
  1. Push the vegetables to the edges of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the center and break it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and begins to brown—browning adds depth and richness to the dish.
Add Seasonings
  1. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the entire skillet: paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
  2. Mix everything together until evenly coated, allowing the spices to bloom in the hot pan.
Let Everything Simmer
  1. Reduce the heat slightly and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fully tender and all flavors meld together.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish & Serve
  1. Top with shredded cheese and let it melt, or keep it dairy-free. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, add a squeeze of lime, or top with avocado for creaminess.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, comforting blend of savory beef and sweet potatoes.