Name: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup water or broth; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about a skillet meal that brings together rich flavors with minimal fuss. This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is one of those weeknight heroes I keep coming back to. It’s hearty, naturally sweet from the caramelized potatoes, and deeply savory thanks to the seasoned beef. Every bite feels like something warm and home-cooked, even when I’ve thrown it together in under 30 minutes.

I love meals like this because they’re wholesome, filling, and flexible. Whether I’m feeding picky eaters or trying to meal prep for the week, this dish always finds a way to fit. Plus, it only uses one pan—less cleanup, more time to relax. Trust me, this isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s the kind of easy recipe you’ll crave over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

One-pan magic: Everything cooks in a single skillet, saving time and dishes.
Nutritious & balanced: You get protein, fiber, and healthy carbs in one cozy bowl.
Naturally sweet + savory: The sweet potatoes balance out the savory beef beautifully.
Meal prep friendly: Stores and reheats like a dream.
Customizable: Add greens, swap proteins, or spice it up to fit your cravings.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this skillet recipe, I usually go with lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10). It has enough fat to give great flavor without making the dish greasy. If you use a higher fat ratio, like 80/20, you may want to drain the excess fat after browning. On the other hand, if you’re watching fat intake, extra-lean beef works too—just add a splash of olive oil to prevent it from drying out during cooking.

If you’re in the mood to switch things up, ground turkey or chicken are also great alternatives. Just keep in mind, they’re leaner and may need a little extra seasoning to bring out that same bold, comforting flavor.

Options for Substitutions

This skillet is incredibly adaptable, which makes it perfect for using up what you have on hand. Here are a few easy substitutions:

Sweet Potatoes: You can use butternut squash or regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just note that sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that balances the spices well.
Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Seasonings: Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika or chili powder work in a pinch. You can also add a pinch of cumin or Italian seasoning to tweak the flavor profile.
Add-ins: Toss in spinach, kale, or bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking to boost the nutrition.
Cheese topping: Sprinkle some cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled feta right before serving if you want a cheesy finish.

Ingredients for This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Each ingredient in this skillet recipe plays an important role in building bold, balanced flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s worth including:

Ground beef: The hearty, savory base of the dish. It brings protein and richness to balance the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Sweet potatoes: These get tender and slightly caramelized as they cook, adding sweetness and texture.
Onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness that enhances both the beef and the potatoes.
Garlic: Brings aromatic, punchy flavor that ties everything together.
Olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies and beef while adding a hint of richness.
Smoked paprika: Gives the dish a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
Cumin: Adds earthy warmth and depth to round out the spices.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning everything just right.
Fresh parsley: A pop of green freshness at the end that brightens the dish.

Optional, but tasty:

Crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat.
Cheese (optional): For a gooey topping, especially good if you’re serving this skillet as a comfort food meal.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes

Toss in the diced sweet potatoes and stir to coat them in the beef and spices. Add a splash of water or broth (about ¼ cup) to help soften the sweet potatoes while cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate if needed. Give everything a good stir and adjust seasoning to taste. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top and serve hot.

How Long to Cook the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

From start to finish, this skillet dinner takes about 25 to 30 minutes:

Prep time: 10 minutes (chopping sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic)
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
- Browning beef: ~6–8 minutes
- Cooking sweet potatoes: ~10–12 minutes

Cooking times can vary slightly depending on how large your potato cubes are, so check for doneness by piercing one with a fork — it should slide in easily.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Cut sweet potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook at the same rate and prevents some from being undercooked while others turn to mush.
Use a large enough skillet: Overcrowding the pan can steam the ingredients instead of letting them brown and caramelize.
Don’t rush the browning: Let the beef develop a bit of crust for deeper flavor. Stir occasionally but not constantly.
Add broth if needed: If your skillet is drying out before the sweet potatoes are done, just splash in a little more water or broth to keep things moist.
Taste and adjust: Before serving, always taste and adjust the seasoning—especially salt and spice.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Undercooking the sweet potatoes: They should be fork-tender, not crunchy. If needed, cook a few minutes longer with a splash of water and a lid to steam them through.
Skipping the seasoning: With minimal ingredients, seasoning is everything. Don’t forget to layer flavor as you go—especially after browning the beef.
Cutting potatoes too large: Large chunks take forever to cook. Aim for small, evenly sized cubes for faster, more even cooking.
Not draining excess fat: If your beef is high in fat, draining it will keep the skillet from getting greasy or heavy.
Overcrowding the skillet: This prevents browning and can make everything steam instead. Use a big pan or work in batches if necessary.

What to Serve With Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Green Salad

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to balance the skillet’s richness.

Steamed Rice or Quinoa

Serve the skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa for a heartier meal.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for scooping up every last bit—especially if you’ve added a cheesy topping or extra sauce.

Avocado Slices

The creaminess of fresh avocado is a perfect contrast to the bold spices and savory beef.

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Drizzle with a tangy yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Tortilla Wraps

Wrap the skillet mixture in warm tortillas for an easy handheld dinner—great for kids too.

Grated Cheese on Top

Melt some cheddar or Monterey Jack on top for a cheesy finish that makes the skillet feel extra indulgent.

Fried Egg

Top each serving with a fried egg for an extra dose of protein and that magical runny yolk.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers store beautifully, making this skillet ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between, until hot. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To keep the texture nice, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to prevent drying out.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~385 kcal
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 420mg
Sugar: 6g
Serving Size: 1 generous cup

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pan should I use for this skillet?

A large nonstick or cast iron skillet works best. Cast iron helps with even browning and holds heat well, but nonstick makes cleanup a breeze.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the ingredients in advance or fully cook the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats wonderfully.

How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also serve it with spicy salsa or jalapeños.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients (like broth or seasoning blends) are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Definitely. Try adding bell peppers, spinach, kale, zucchini, or even corn in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.

What kind of cheese works well on top?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled feta are all great choices. A sprinkle of cheese adds richness and makes it even more satisfying.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough, or cook in batches. This recipe scales well for a crowd or meal prep.

Conclusion

The Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is one of those go-to recipes that checks all the boxes: quick, nourishing, full of flavor, and totally customizable. Whether you’re throwing it together after a long day or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers every time. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with just the right amount of spice. One pan, endless possibilities—and zero regrets.