Sweet potatoes and savory meats are a match made in comfort food heaven. This flavorful combo brings together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the rich, seasoned depth of your favorite protein—be it chicken, beef, or pork. The result? A nourishing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
This guide shows you how to create a delicious one-pan meat and sweet potato meal featuring roasted veggies, your choice of protein, and a blend of warming spices for a dish that’s both nutritious and full of flavor.
How to Make Meat and Sweet Potato Skillet
This easy, all-in-one recipe highlights tender cubes of sweet potatoes and your favorite meat, seasoned and roasted or sautéed to perfection. It’s a customizable dish that can be adapted to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Base:
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2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 lb chicken breast, ground beef, or pork tenderloin (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 small red onion, sliced
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp cumin
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½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
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1 cup spinach or kale (add near the end)
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½ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
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1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (for brightness)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparing Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (if roasting) or heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cube sweet potatoes and chop meat and vegetables.
Step 2: Season and Cook Meat
In a large bowl, toss meat with half the olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook in skillet until browned and cooked through, or roast for 15–20 minutes if using the oven.
Step 3: Cook Sweet Potatoes and Veggies
In the same pan or on a sheet tray, toss sweet potatoes, bell pepper, and onion with remaining oil and seasoning. Cook until sweet potatoes are fork-tender and golden (15–20 minutes). Stir in greens at the end if using.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Mix meat and sweet potato mixture together. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to enhance flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate warm and serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad if desired.
Servings
Serves: 4 as a main dish
Presentation & Decoration
Garnish Ideas:
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Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
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A drizzle of tahini or herbed yogurt sauce
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve over a bed of grains like rice or couscous
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Top with a poached egg for a brunch twist
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Add avocado slices for extra creaminess
Best Time to Eat
Weeknight Dinner: Easy, quick, and balanced
Meal Prep Hero: Keeps well and reheats beautifully
Lunch or Light Dinner: Nutritious and filling without being heavy
Portion Guide
Individual: 1 to 1½ cups per serving
Group: Double the recipe for a meal-prepped week or potluck
Storage & Shelf Life
Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
Freezing: Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months
Reheating: Reheat on stovetop or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally
Allergy Guide
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free (check seasonings and broth if added)
Dairy-Free: 100% dairy-free as written
Low-Carb Option: Swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini
Tried this meat and sweet potato recipe? Share your creations and tag us—we love seeing how you put your own spin on these feel-good meals!
Anna Reed is a passionate baker and self-taught cook who turned her love for food into a way of life. Growing up surrounded by the rich flavors of homemade meals, she developed a deep appreciation for traditional recipes and the art of baking from scratch. Now, she enjoys experimenting with new flavors, perfecting old-fashioned techniques, and sharing her creations with friends and neighbors who can’t resist the aroma of fresh bread or a warm pie. When she’s not in the kitchen, Anna loves visiting local markets, learning about seasonal ingredients, and finding inspiration in the simple joys of good food and great company.