There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that’s hearty, colorful, and bursting with bold flavor — especially when it only takes one pan to make. That’s exactly what you get with this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. It’s a dish that combines the warmth of smoky spices, the sweetness of tender potatoes, and the richness of perfectly browned beef — all cooked together for a satisfying, weeknight-ready dinner.
Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something wholesome and delicious, this skillet delivers the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition — without the stress of a sink full of dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Balanced, Flavorful, and Wholesome
This dish is more than just quick and convenient — it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. You get a healthy balance of protein from ground beef, fiber from black beans and sweet potatoes, and freshness from lime and herbs. The result is a meal that feels indulgent yet energizing, perfect for busy weeknights or post-workout dinners.
Loaded with Bold Southwest Flavor
If you love the smoky-sweet combination of Southwest cuisine, you’ll also enjoy the bold, hearty flavors of this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo — it’s another one-pan wonder packed with rich spices and comforting warmth. A blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic gives the beef that signature kick, while sweet potatoes bring a natural caramelized sweetness that rounds everything out beautifully.
Quick and Easy for Any Night
You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps — just a single skillet, a few pantry staples, and about 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels like comfort food but tastes fresh and vibrant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful ground beef and sweet potato skillet:
Core Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or grass-fed)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
- Jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Shredded cheese or avocado for topping
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
- Lime wedges for serving
Pro Tip: Dice the sweet potatoes evenly — this ensures they cook uniformly and stay tender, not mushy.
Making Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This step helps them caramelize, adding depth and natural sweetness to the dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Move the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary. The browned bits on the bottom of the pan add incredible flavor — don’t waste them.
3. Add Vegetables and Spices
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and aromatic. Then, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Let the spices bloom in the heat for about 30 seconds — that’s how you unlock that rich, toasty flavor.
4. Combine Everything
Add in the black beans and corn, mixing until everything is evenly coated in the seasoning. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it all cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Finish with Lime and Fresh Herbs
Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or green onions. The lime brightens the flavors and ties everything together.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Getting the perfect balance of texture and spice is easy with a few small adjustments.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: They should be tender but hold their shape.
- Use full-flavored spices: Fresh, high-quality spices make a big difference.
- Add lime at the end: Adding citrus too early dulls the flavor.
- For extra depth: Add a teaspoon of tomato paste or hot sauce to the beef as it cooks.
- Want it spicier? Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
This dish is incredibly forgiving — you can tweak the spice level, swap out veggies, or even change the protein and still end up with something delicious.
Serving Ideas For Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
This meal is hearty enough on its own, but a few simple sides can take it to the next level:
- Warm flour or corn tortillas – scoop and wrap for a quick taco-style meal.
- Cilantro lime rice or quinoa – great for soaking up extra sauce.
- Fresh green salad or avocado slices – adds coolness and balance.
- Garlic bread or naan – perfect for dipping.
For another easy, flavor-packed dinner, try this Mexican Chicken and Rice Bowl — it’s just as satisfying and comes together in no time.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily switch things up depending on your dietary needs or what’s in your kitchen.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner option that keeps the same flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and double the beans — lentils also work great. If you prefer a meat-free option, swap the beef for beans or lentils, or check out this hearty Vegan Taco Soup for another delicious plant-based twist.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add shredded cheese and serve it as a cheesy skillet casserole.
- Breakfast-Style Skillet: Top it with fried eggs and avocado for a hearty brunch.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility — you can reinvent it every time.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this skillet? It’s perfect for leftovers.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Avoid boiling the sauce when reheating — gentle heat keeps the texture creamy and the flavors intact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go sideways without a few precautions:
- Don’t skip browning the beef — it adds depth.
- Avoid crowding the pan, or the sweet potatoes will steam instead of caramelize.
- Don’t add lime juice too early; the acidity can dull the spice blend.
Follow these tips, and your skillet will turn out flavorful every time.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores beautifully and even tastes better the next day as the spices meld.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, but sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that balances the smoky flavors perfectly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free — just check your seasonings to be sure.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Definitely, just skip the cheese and top with avocado or a drizzle of cashew cream.
How can I make it more filling?
Serve it over rice or quinoa, or wrap it in tortillas for a complete meal.
A Skillet Full of Warmth and Flavor
There’s something magical about a one-pan dinner that brings big flavor with minimal effort — and this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is exactly that. It’s smoky, sweet, savory, and perfectly satisfying — the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your table with happy faces.
So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and make tonight’s dinner a little brighter. Once you try this recipe, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation — because comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.Try it tonight and let your skillet work its magic — one sizzling, flavor-packed spoonful at a time. If you’re meal prepping for the week, pair this skillet with these Honey Garlic Chicken Bowls for a flavorful mix of sweet, savory, and protein-packed options.
Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef lean or grass-fed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 15 oz black beans 1 can drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheese or avocado slices
- 1 fresh jalapeño diced (for heat)
- 1 dollop sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions
Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Brown the Ground Beef:
- Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Add Aromatics and Spices:
- Stir in chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Combine Everything:
- Add black beans and corn to the skillet. Mix everything together and cover. Let it cook on low for 5–6 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
Finish and Serve:
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet. Garnish with cilantro or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of hot sauce.
- Want it vegetarian? Skip the beef and double the black beans or add lentils.
- For meal prep, divide into containers — reheats beautifully for up to 4 days.
