Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Why Make This Recipe

Ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. This hearty dish is satisfying and full of flavor. Ground beef offers protein, while sweet potatoes provide vitamins and fiber, making this meal not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s easy to prepare and takes less than an hour from start to finish, meaning you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Moreover, the ingredients used are usually readily available, making it a great recipe to whip up with minimal planning. You can customize this dish with various toppings and sides, allowing everyone to make it their own. Whether you want a quick dinner or some leftovers for lunch, this skillet dish won’t let you down.

How to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

This recipe involves simple steps that will lead you to a filling and flavorful meal. Follow along to prepare your very own ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet.

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, avocado slices, and sour cream for serving

Directions

1. Prep your ingredients: Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, cubing the sweet potatoes, and dicing the poblano pepper. Having everything ready makes the cooking process much smoother and quicker.

2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks so that it browns evenly. Once browned, carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness in your dish.

3. Add onion and garlic: Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them until the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well to coat the meat and vegetables.

4. Incorporate sweet potatoes: Add the cubed sweet potatoes and one cup of water to the skillet. Stir everything together. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally. The sweet potatoes should become tender but should not fall apart.

5. Add corn and poblano: Stir in the frozen corn and diced poblano pepper. This adds color and additional flavor to your skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the sweet potatoes are cooked to your liking.

6. Melt the cheese (optional): If you choose to use cheese, sprinkle it over the top in the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet again to help the cheese melt perfectly.

7. Garnish and serve: Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your delicious creation with freshly chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream. These toppings will add freshness and creaminess to your meal.

How to Serve Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

This dish is versatile and can be served in several ways. You can enjoy it straight from the skillet or plate it for a more formal dining experience. Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:

• Family-style: Place the skillet on the table and let everyone serve themselves. It’s a casual way to enjoy your meal together.

• Tacos: You can also use the mixture as a filling for tacos. Simply warm some tortillas and fill them with the beef and sweet potato mixture. Top with cheese, avocado, and sour cream for a delicious twist.

• Rice or quinoa: For an even heartier meal, consider serving this dish over a bed of rice or quinoa. This adds another layer of texture and will soak up the flavors beautifully.

• Salad: Serve it on top of a fresh green salad for a lighter option. The sweet potatoes and beef will complement salad greens nicely.

How to Store Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

If you happen to have leftovers (which is likely because this dish is so filling), storing them correctly is essential to maintaining freshness:

• Cool down: Allow the skillet to cool down to room temperature after cooking.

• Refrigerate: Transfer the leftover mixture to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freeze: For longer storage, consider freezing your ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet. Place the cooled mixture in freezer bags or containers, making sure to squeeze out excess air before sealing. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If frozen, it’s best to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

To make the most out of your ground beef and sweet potatoes skillet, keep these handy tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and peppers will elevate the flavor of your dish. Opt for vibrant, firm vegetables for the best results.

• Customize the spice level: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper along with the taco seasoning.

• Choose the right ground beef: You can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a healthier option. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require a bit more seasoning.

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Be sure to adjust cooking times for any extra vegetables to ensure they cook evenly.

• Stay creative with toppings: Try different toppings based on the season or occasion. You could even add salsa or fresh lime juice for a refreshing kick.

Variation

While this recipe stands on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try:

• Vegetarian version: Swap ground beef for plant-based ground meat or add more beans and lentils for a hearty vegetarian meal.

• Egg on top: For breakfast enthusiasts, serve scrambled or fried eggs on top of the skillet meal.

• Southwestern twist: Add black beans and diced tomatoes to create a more southwestern flavor profile.

• Sweet potato alternatives: If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or cauliflower can be substituted, though cooking times may vary.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey. Just be mindful that turkey can be drier, so you may want to add a little more oil or seasoning to keep it flavorful.

Is it necessary to peel sweet potatoes?

Peeling sweet potatoes is optional. The skin is nutritious, so if you prefer a bit of texture, feel free to leave it on. Just wash them thoroughly before cubing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance and reheat it when you are ready to serve. It may taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

How can I make this dish spicier?

For added spice, consider using a spicier taco seasoning, adding chopped jalapeños, or even hot sauce. Just remember to start with small amounts to get to your preferred level of heat.

What can I serve this skillet with?

This dish pairs well with various sides, such as a fresh salad, corn tortillas, or even a dollop of guacamole. Choose what you enjoy most, and it will complement the meal beautifully!

By following this guide, you can whip up a delightful Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet for dinner that your whole family will love. Enjoy each bite as it brings nourishment and joy to your table!

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