Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Why Make This Recipe

Ground beef and sweet potatoes might seem like an odd pairing at first, but trust me—this combination is a match made in culinary heaven! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Ground beef brings a rich, savory flavor, while sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness and a beautiful orange color to the skillet. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you!

Eating a balanced diet is important, and this dish checks a lot of boxes. It’s loaded with protein, healthy carbohydrates, and dietary fiber, thanks to the sweet potatoes and corn. Not to mention, you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings. Whether you want to load it up with cheese or keep it fresh and light with avocado and cilantro, this recipe lets you do just that.

Overall, making this dish is a great way to nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds—all while being quick and simple.

How to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Making this Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is straightforward—perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process, from prepping the ingredients to the final garnishing touches.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 poblano pepper, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Avocado slices for garnish
• Sour cream for serving

Directions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients:
   Start by getting everything ready for cooking. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and dice the poblano pepper. It’s easier to cook when everything is prepped ahead.

2. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s well-browned. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

3. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
   Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. At this point, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir well to combine everything.

4. Incorporate Sweet Potatoes:
   Now it’s time to add those cubed sweet potatoes. Pour in the water and stir to coat the sweet potatoes with the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally and add more water if the mixture gets too thick.

5. Add Corn and Peppers:
   When the sweet potatoes are nice and soft, add the frozen corn and diced poblano pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through. Don’t forget to taste it! You can add more taco seasoning or salt if needed.

6. Melt Cheese (Optional):
   If you love cheese, sprinkle it over the skillet in the last couple of minutes of cooking. Cover again to let the cheese melt deliciously over the top.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   Once done, remove the skillet from heat and garnish your dish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy touch that balances the spices perfectly. Serve it warm, and enjoy!

How to Serve Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

This recipe is quite versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve it right from the skillet for a rustic family meal. Scoop portions onto plates and let everyone add their own garnishes. Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy this dish:

• With Toppings: Apart from cilantro, avocado slices, and sour cream, you can enhance the dish with hot sauce for an extra kick, or even fresh lime juice for a zesty touch.
• With Rice or Tortillas: If you want a heartier meal, serve this skillet dish on a bed of rice or alongside warm tortillas. This will soak up all the yummy juices!
• As a Topping for Nachos: Use this flavorful mixture as a topping for tortilla chips. Layer them with cheese and bake until melted for a fun twist!

How to Store Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Storing leftover Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is quick and easy.

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the skillet to cool completely after cooking. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

• In the Freezer: If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the dish. Again, let it cool, then place in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It will last about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Tips to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Make sure to give the beef time to brown properly. This adds depth of flavor that is crucial for a tasty dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies will give you the best flavor and texture, so try to use fresh onions, sweet potatoes, and peppers.

• Customize the Spice Levels: If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. For milder flavors, skip the strong spices.

• Try Different Cheeses: If you choose to add cheese, you can experiment with different varieties like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

• Cook Time Matters: Keep an eye on the cooking times, especially for the sweet potatoes. You want them tender but not mushy. Adjust the simmering time accordingly.

Variation

This ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet recipe is adaptable, allowing for different ingredients to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you could try:

• Swap the Protein: Instead of ground beef, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.

• Add Other Veggies: Mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor. The more colors on your plate, the better!

• Different Seasonings: If taco seasoning is not your favorite, you could use Italian seasoning, curry powder, or even simple salt and pepper for a completely different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance. Just store the chopped vegetables in the fridge, and when it’s time to cook, everything will be ready to go. If you want to fully cook it ahead of time, just reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can substitute regular potatoes or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may require different times.

Can I use leftover ground beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked ground beef, you can skip the browning step and simply add it to the skillet with the veggies and seasonings. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is heated through.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness level mainly depends on the taco seasoning you use and if you add any spicy ingredients like jalapeños. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for a milder or spicier version.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat and replace the beef broth and cheese with vegan alternatives. Ensure that your taco seasoning is also vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian or vegan meal!

Enjoy making and savoring your Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet. It’s a flavor-packed dish that’s good for the body and the soul, all while being incredibly easy to whip up in no time! Happy cooking!

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