Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

The Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is a fantastic meal choice for many reasons. Not only is it filling and comforting, but it also combines a variety of flavors and textures in one delicious dish. Sweet potatoes bring a naturally sweet flavor while ground beef adds hearty protein. This recipe is easy to prepare in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that allows for creative modifications based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Eating a home-cooked meal like this one can bring your family together. It is a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your daily routine while still satisfying your taste buds. With fresh ingredients and lots of options for personalization, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick yet wholesome dinner.

How to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Making the Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Follow these steps for a delicious, one-pot meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups sweet potatoes, cubed (approximately 2 medium-sized potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 poblano pepper, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and sour cream for serving

Variations

• Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for dietary preferences.
• Use butternut squash or carrots instead of sweet potatoes.
• Adjust spice levels with Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
• Add black beans for extra fiber.

Directions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before cooking, prepare all your ingredients. Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, cubing the sweet potatoes, and dicing the poblano pepper. This way, everything is ready to go when it’s time to start cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Use a spatula to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes

Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet and pour in the water. Stir everything together, making sure the sweet potatoes are well coated with the seasoning and mixed in with the meat. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to simmer for around 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.

Step 5: Add Corn and Peppers

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, add the frozen corn and diced poblano pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the corn is heated and the peppers soften. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Melt Cheese (Optional)

If you choose to add cheese, sprinkle it on top of the skillet during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt. This creates a delightful cheesy layer that enhances the flavors of the dish.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish. This will add color and extra flavor, making your dish even more appetizing.

How to Serve Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

This dish makes a great main course and can be served directly from the skillet for a rustic touch. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some corn tortillas on the side for a complete meal. You can serve individual portions in bowls, topped with cilantro, avocado, and sour cream as mentioned. Enjoy the dish hot for the best flavors and textures!

How to Store Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

If you have leftovers, allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm up on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce will enhance the overall flavor and nutrition of the dish.

2. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the taco seasoning according to your family’s heat tolerance. If you have kids, you might want to keep it mild.

3. Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to increase nutrients.

4. Make It One-Pot: This recipe is designed to be made in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

5. Double the Recipe: If you are serving a larger group, consider doubling the ingredients. It tends to be a crowd-pleaser!

Variations

This recipe is highly versatile. Here are some creative variations you might try:

• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that is equally satisfying.
• Sweet and Savory Twist: You can add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast to the savory beef and sweet potatoes.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Choose according to your dietary preferences.

2. Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and even brown the beef a day in advance. Store the ingredients separately in the fridge and cook them the next day.

3. Is it okay to use fresh sweet potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh sweet potatoes are actually preferable, but if you’re in a pinch, using frozen corn as mentioned works too.

4. What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can use a mix of cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a dash of salt.

5. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground beef, lowering the cheese, and adding more vegetables. You can also try using less oil when cooking.

Conclusion

The Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is a wonderful recipe that brings together a simple yet delicious combination of flavors. It’s straightforward to prepare, filled with nutritious ingredients, and can be customized to suit various tastes. Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking for a comforting dish to serve on the weekend, this skillet meal is sure to satisfy. Enjoy making it your own, and savor the delightful flavors in every bite!

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