Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This easy ground beef and sweet potato skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s packed with nutrients, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes absolutely amazing. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can make with simple ingredients, making it ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels – from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and healthy, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (90/10 lean recommended)
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Sweet Potato: Peel and dice the sweet potato into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Add Spices and Sweet Potato: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat them with the spices.
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Simmer: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or use a spicier chili powder blend. Experiment to find your preferred level of heat!
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a wholesome and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of savory ground beef and sweet sweet potatoes creates a delicious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy individuals and families alike. Enjoy!