Introduction
Welcome to a dish that blends hearty flavor and comforting textures into one delightful skillet meal! This Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is an easy and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory ground beef mingling with the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it all comes together in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Feel the warmth as the oil shimmers, creating the perfect base for our meal.
- Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them until they soften and become slightly translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water!
- Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. It’s the little things, like garlic, that elevate a dish to another level.
- Now it’s time for the star of the show! Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to ensure all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and give everything a good stir. Their natural sweetness will balance perfectly with the spices.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture. If you’re looking to make this dish even heartier, feel free to toss in some black beans or corn. This recipe is versatile, so adjust the spices to suit your taste. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
Using a large skillet allows for even cooking and maximizes flavor development through browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables. Covering the skillet while the sweet potatoes cook helps steam them, ensuring they become tender without losing their shape. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe and provides a leaner option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or add 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans for protein.
What should I serve with this dish?
This skillet dish is filling on its own, but if you want to add sides, a simple green salad or steamed broccoli would complement it nicely.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious, warm, and comforting Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet that brings the family together around the dinner table. Not only is this recipe simple, but it’s also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your variations. Happy cooking!