Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Looking for a dinner that’s fast, filling, and packed with flavor? This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet checks all the boxes. It’s a 30-minute, one-pan meal that’s loaded with lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, bold southwest spices, and just the right amount of melted cheese on top.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy skillet dish is a go-to solution when you want something satisfying and simple.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Recipe
This dish is all about comfort and convenience. The sweetness of the potatoes balances perfectly with the savory spices and beef.
It’s got a little heat, a lot of flavor, and it comes together in one pan with minimal prep. You get protein, veggies, and big taste all in a 30-minute recipe.
Plus, the fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles add a smoky, southwestern flair that really brings the whole thing to life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything it takes to make this delicious skillet dinner:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
- ½ cup diced onion – adds savory depth
- 1 pound lean ground beef – hearty and protein-rich
- 5 teaspoons chili powder, divided – smoky and bold
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin – earthy southwest flavor
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic – sharp and aromatic
- 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes – sweet, tender, and nutrient-packed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes – adds smokiness and acidity
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles – mild heat and flavor
- ¼ cup water – helps steam the potatoes while simmering
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – melty, cheesy topping
- Fresh cilantro (optional) – bright garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it browns. Season with 3 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. When the beef is nearly cooked through, stir in the grated garlic and cook for about 1 more minute. Transfer the beef mixture to a plate and set aside. Wipe out the skillet.
2. Simmer the Sweet Potatoes
Add the sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, ¼ cup water, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin to the same skillet. Season again with a bit of salt and pepper. Stir well, cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft and fork-tender.
3. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir everything together. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly on top, cover again for another 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve hot.
Serving Tips
This skillet is hearty enough on its own, but you can always round it out with:
- Warm tortillas or cornbread
- A green salad with avocado and lime
- Black beans or corn on the side
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish
Make It Your Own
- Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add more veggies: Toss in corn, bell peppers, or black beans.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you love heat.
- Go dairy-free: Omit the cheese or use a plant-based version.
Perfect for Busy Nights
What makes this dish a standout is that it uses one pan, basic ingredients, and a short cook time — but delivers on flavor like something that simmered all day. The sweet potatoes bring in fiber and natural sweetness, while the ground beef keeps it filling and familiar. The spices tie it all together into a cozy, flavorful, southwest-inspired dinner.
