Healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Ground Beef & Sweet Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Comfort meets nutrition in this ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet that promises a hearty meal with minimal cleanup.

Savory meat mingles perfectly with caramelized orange-hued vegetable chunks.

Lean protein and complex carbohydrates create a balanced dinner solution for busy households.

Robust seasonings wake up every bite with unexpected depth.

Minimal ingredients mean maximum flavor without complicated cooking techniques.

Home cooks seeking a quick and satisfying meal will appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together.

Let’s transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that everyone will request again and again.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this skillet recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The poblano pepper adds a mild heat, but the taco seasoning can vary in spiciness. If you’re sensitive to spice, choose a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount used.

  • Are sweet potatoes healthy?

Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re a great alternative to regular potatoes and add more nutrients to your meal.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free taco seasoning blend. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation for those with gluten sensitivities.

Why Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet Shines

  • Minimize Kitchen Cleanup: Using a single skillet means fewer dishes to wash, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious food without extensive post-meal cleaning.
  • Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Easily personalize the recipe by adjusting spice levels, adding different toppings like avocado or cilantro, or swapping ingredients to suit individual taste preferences.
  • Master Quick Weeknight Cooking: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe allows even novice cooks to prepare a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners stress-free and enjoyable.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that forms the foundation of this skillet dish.
Vegetables:
  • Sweet Potatoes, Onion, Garlic, Poblano Pepper, Frozen Corn: A colorful mix of vegetables that add nutrition, texture, and depth of flavor to the skillet.
Seasonings and Toppings:
  • Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the dish a zesty Mexican-inspired taste.
  • Shredded Cheese, Cilantro, Avocado, Sour Cream: Optional toppings that enhance the meal with additional creaminess and freshness.
Liquid:
  • Water: Helps cook the sweet potatoes and create a slight sauce in the skillet.

How to Prepare Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

How to Prepare Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it develops a rich, golden color.

Carefully drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Veggies

Toss in finely chopped onions and crushed garlic.

Sizzle these ingredients until they become soft and release their mouth-watering fragrance, creating a delicious flavor base.

Step 3: Create the Skillet Magic

Add sweet potato cubes, zesty taco seasoning, and a splash of water.

Mix everything thoroughly to ensure each ingredient is perfectly coated with the seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook gently.

Allow sweet potatoes to become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors, typically taking 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Colorful Extras

Stir in these vibrant ingredients:
  • Frozen corn
  • Diced poblano pepper

Cook for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors and warm the new ingredients.

Step 6: Optional Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt into a creamy, irresistible layer.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

Garnish with fresh ingredients:
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced avocado
  • Cool sour cream

Enjoy your skillet fiesta right away!

Pro Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

  • Remove as much fat as possible from the ground beef to prevent a greasy dish and improve overall flavor.
  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
  • Adjust taco seasoning quantity based on personal heat preference, or make your own blend for a more personalized taste experience.
  • Add poblano pepper and corn towards the end of cooking to maintain their fresh texture and vibrant taste.
  • Swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that doesn't compromise on taste.

Creative Spins on Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute sweet potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini cubes to reduce carbohydrate content.
  • Spicy Kick Version: Add diced jalapeños or increase taco seasoning for extra heat and bold flavor.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Use lamb instead of beef, swap taco seasoning for oregano and cumin, and top with feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired skillet.

Serving Ideas with Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

  • Fiesta Family Feast: Gather around the table and make this skillet a shared experience with loved ones.
  • Fresh Taco Bowl Twist: Serve over crisp lettuce or rice for a deconstructed taco-style meal that adds extra texture and flavor.
  • Spicy Garnish Party: Top with extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or fresh salsa to kick up the heat and personalize each plate.
  • Leftover Magic Transformation: Wrap remaining mixture in tortillas for quick lunch burritos or stuff into bell peppers for another delicious meal the next day.

Storing Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Transfer cooled skillet to freezer-safe containers. Wrap securely and freeze for 2-3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water to prevent drying and maintain moisture. Heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.
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Healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet Recipe


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4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet delights with rustic charm, blending savory meat and caramelized root vegetables in one satisfying pan. Home cooks savor this simple, nourishing meal that brings comfort and flavor to weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 poblano pepper (seeded and diced)

Vegetables and Starches:

  • 3 cups sweet potatoes (cubed, about 2 medium-sized potatoes)
  • 1/2 cup onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup frozen corn

Seasonings and Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning (or 1 packet store-bought)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Cilantro (for serving)
  • Avocado (for serving)
  • Sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and brown the ground beef, thoroughly breaking it into crumbly pieces.
  2. Eliminate excess grease from the meat using a colander or paper towels.
  3. Return beef to the skillet and incorporate diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Introduce cubed sweet potatoes, taco seasoning, and appropriate liquid, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
  5. Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and simmer for approximately 12 minutes, allowing sweet potatoes to soften and absorb flavors.
  6. Gently fold in frozen corn kernels and diced poblano peppers, continuing to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until vegetables reach desired tenderness.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese across the surface, allowing it to melt naturally from the skillet’s residual heat.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, creamy avocado slices, and a dollop of tangy sour cream before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version that maintains protein content and satisfying texture.
  • Use lean ground beef or turkey to reduce overall fat while keeping the dish hearty and nutritious.
  • Consider adding quinoa or brown rice directly into the skillet for extra fiber and to make the meal more filling.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting poblano pepper quantity or using alternative peppers like jalapeños for personalized spice preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 427 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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