Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

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Why Make This Recipe

Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is a fantastic recipe that brings together the hearty flavor of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Ground beef provides protein, while sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Plus, the addition of vegetables like corn and poblano pepper adds even more nutritional value and flavor.

In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this meal that the whole family will love. It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to your liking or add extra vegetables if you wish. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous taste buds, this skillet is sure to become a household favorite.

How to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Making Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. Follow these steps to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by getting everything ready. Dice the onion and poblano pepper, mince the garlic, and cube the sweet potatoes. Having your ingredients prepped in advance will make cooking much smoother.
Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it frequently to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s any excess grease, drain it off to avoid a greasy dish.
Add Flavors: Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook this mixture for about a minute until you can smell the garlic. The seasoning will really start to bring everything together.
Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Next, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet along with 1 cup of water. Stir everything together so the sweet potatoes are well mixed in. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 10-15 minutes. The sweet potatoes should become fork-tender during this time.
Incorporate Corn and Poblano: After the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in the frozen corn and diced poblano pepper. Let this cook for another 5 minutes so the corn heats through and the poblano softens.
Melt the Cheese (Optional): If you choose to add cheese, sprinkle it on top of the skillet. Cover the skillet once again and let it sit for a minute or until the cheese melts.
Garnish and Serve: Once everything is cooked, garnish your dish with fresh cilantro. Serve it hot, alongside slices of avocado and a dollop of sour cream.

How to Serve Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

To serve this delightful skillet dish, scoop generous portions onto plates. The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pan nature, making it a fuss-free serving option. You can offer additional toppings like avocado slices or sour cream on the side so everyone can customize their plates.

This meal pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some crusty bread if you want something to help soak up any delicious juices left on the plate. If you enjoy spiciness, consider adding slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Store Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

If you have leftovers, storing them is extremely easy. Just follow these simple steps to keep your skillet meal fresh for later:

Cool Down: Allow the skillet dish to cool down at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Transfer to Containers: Once cooled, transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. Make sure not to overfill them, as this could lead to spills in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it in the next few days, or freeze them for longer storage. If refrigerated, it should last for about 3-4 days. If frozen, try to consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep everything moist.

Tips to Make Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will elevate the flavor of your dish. Try to use fresh sweet potatoes, garlic, and peppers for the best taste.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the taco seasoning according to your preferences. You can add more spices like cumin or chili powder for a warm, comforting flavor or even reduce it for a milder dish.
Vegetable Options: This recipe is incredibly flexible. Beyond poblanos, try adding bell peppers, spinach, or kale for extra nutrition. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly for any new vegetables you add.
Meal Prep: If you’re short on time, consider preparing the sweet potatoes ahead of time. You can cube them the night before and store them in a sealed container in the fridge.
Make it Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking.

Variation

This skillet recipe can easily be adapted to fit your tastes or dietary needs. You might want to try the following variations:

Healthier Version: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These leaner proteins can create a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and omit the cheese for a vegan option. You can also add extra beans for protein.
Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover, experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend can offer a delightful twist.
Different Potatoes: If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, regular potatoes would work well too. The cooking time may vary, so check until they are tender.

FAQs

1. Can I use other ground meats?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as alternatives to ground beef. Each option will provide a slightly different flavor and texture but will still yield a delicious dish.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply follow the cooking directions when you’re ready to cook.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also serve it with hot sauce or spicy salsa on the side.

4. What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet dish is quite hearty and can be served on its own. However, you might enjoy it alongside a fresh salad, your favorite bread, or even tortillas for wrapping.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, make sure to check the label of the taco seasoning if you’re using a store-bought version to avoid any gluten-containing additives.

By incorporating these tips, variations, and serving suggestions, you can enjoy the Best Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet tailor-made to your liking. This super simple recipe is sure to please everyone around your dinner table!