Description
This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and a vibrant blend of chili powder, cumin, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, this recipe offers a delicious taste of southwestern cuisine in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 teaspoons chili powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin, divided
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
- 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes
- 14.5 ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 4 ounces canned diced green chiles
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cilantro for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Cook the beef and onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef with a spoon. Season with 3 teaspoons chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is nearly done, stirring occasionally. Add grated garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the sweet potatoes with vegetables: To the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, canned green chiles, water, remaining 2 teaspoons chili powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and melt cheese: Return the cooked ground beef mixture back into the skillet with the sweet potatoes and vegetables. Stir everything together for even distribution. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet again, and cook over low heat until the cheese is melted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a satisfying southwest-inspired meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust chili powder and cumin to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh diced tomatoes if fire-roasted canned tomatoes are unavailable.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- This dish stores well and tastes great reheated for leftovers.
