When sweet potatoes meet savory ground beef in a skillet, magic happens. This hearty and wholesome one-pan meal delivers comforting flavors with nourishing ingredients. It’s sweet, savory, and spiced just right—perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal prep staple.
This sweet potato and beef skillet recipe brings together nutritious vegetables and protein in a fuss-free format. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for the week, this dish hits the spot.
How to Make Sweet Potato and Beef Skillet from Scratch
A simple stovetop recipe that’s loaded with flavor and comes together in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20 blend)
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2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 small red onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Garnish (optional):
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Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
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Shredded cheese
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Dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Preparing Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sweet Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Veggies
Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the sweet potatoes back to the skillet and mix everything well. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, until sweet potatoes are fork-tender and flavors are blended.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy.
Servings
Serves 4 hearty portions
Presentation & Decoration
Garnish Ideas:
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Sprinkle with fresh herbs for color and brightness
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Melt shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack over the top
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Add avocado slices or a fried egg for a brunch twist
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve with warm tortillas or cornbread
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Pair with a crisp side salad or sautéed greens
Best Time to Eat
Weeknight Dinner: A filling, 35-minute meal after a long day.
Meal Prep Hero: Stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Brunch or Lunch: Topped with an egg for a sweet-savory breakfast bowl.
Portion Guide
Individual: 1 generous bowl per serving
Group: Double the recipe for 6–8 servings in a 12-inch skillet
Storage & Shelf Life
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing: Freeze in single-serve portions for up to 2 months
Reheating: Microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth
Allergy Guide
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free—just check your spices
Dairy-Free: Skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives
Nut-Free: No nuts included in this recipe
Share your skillet creation and tag us—we love seeing your sweet potato and beef masterpieces on the table
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.