Dinner

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

BySarah Summers April 10, 2026April 10, 2026

Introduction

This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, savory ground beef, and zesty spices creates a perfect balance of tastes and textures.

A white plate holds a layered dish with a base of cooked ground beef mixed with chunks of orange sweet potato and pieces of red tomato. On top, there is a layer of melted light yellow cheese sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The food looks warm and slightly crispy on top. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies (with liquid), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Remove the lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more if there is excess liquid.
Step 6: If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover briefly until the cheese melts, about 1 minute.
Step 7: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with sliced jalapeños.
Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version.
Use sweet potato cubes that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
If you prefer, add corn kernels for additional texture and sweetness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. If the dish thickens during storage, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it while reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a dish served in a white bowl, filled with a mix of three main layers. The bottom layer has bright red chunks of cooked tomatoes and diced yellow sweet potatoes. The middle layer shows a thick mix of browned ground meat, cooked to a crumbly texture with a rich, dark brown color. The top layer is covered with melted shredded cheese that is light yellow and slightly browned in some spots. Small pieces of chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch. The bowl is placed on a white marbled textured surface, with soft natural light highlighting the colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the ground beef and add extra beans, corn, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This skillet meal can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving. Sweet potatoes may soften further after storage, but the flavors will deepen.