This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, protein-packed meal that comes together in just one pan! Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and bold Southwestern spices, it’s full of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or even a savory breakfast topped with a fried egg, this skillet is a true crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder: Minimal prep and easy cleanup.
- Nutritious and balanced: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Flavorful and satisfying: Smoky, spicy Southwestern seasoning in every bite.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite protein, veggies, or toppings.
- Perfect for meal prep: Stores and reheats beautifully all week long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Full measurements are in the printable recipe card below.)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend, optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How to Make Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices
Stir in diced sweet potatoes along with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cover and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes begin to soften.
4. Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Stir everything together, then cover again and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Add Cheese (Optional)
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for about 2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, top with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy as is, or add a fried egg or avocado slices on top for an extra boost!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or extra chili flakes.
- Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option.
- Low-carb version: Use cauliflower or zucchini instead of sweet potatoes.
- Extra cheesy: Melt more shredded cheese on top before serving.
- Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or kale all make tasty additions.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken both work great for a leaner option.
How do I prevent mushy sweet potatoes?
Cut them into even pieces and avoid overcooking—just until fork-tender.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the beef with more beans, lentils, or tofu.
What sides go well with this skillet?
Try serving it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh avocado salad.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can this be made in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Final Thoughts
This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect balance of flavor, comfort, and nutrition. With its smoky spices, tender vegetables, and hearty beef, it’s a one-pan dinner you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it fresh, meal prep it for the week, or top it with a fried egg for a filling breakfast twist—it’s always a win!