Southwest Ground Beef Skillet
Introduction
Enjoy a Flavor-Packed Combination
If you’re searching for a simple, flavorful, and healthy one-skillet meal, look no further than the Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender ground beef, sweet potatoes, and a delicious blend of spices that bring out hearty southwestern flavors. It’s a comforting dish that is not only easy to make, but also loaded with nutrients.
Detailed Ingredients With Measures
List of Ingredients
• Lean ground beef – 1 pound
• Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – 2 medium-sized
• Yellow onion, diced – 1 small
• Garlic cloves, minced – 2
• Chili powder – 2 teaspoons
• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Ground coriander – 1/2 teaspoon
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles (drained slightly) – 1 (14.5 ounce) can
• Low sodium chicken broth – About 1/4 cup as needed
• Baby spinach – 3 cups, lightly packed
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about this recipe is how little prep work it requires. Dice your sweet potatoes and chop your onion beforehand to make the cooking process smoother. Additionally, gather and measure all your spices so they’re ready to go when you start cooking. You’ll save time and keep your meal hassle-free.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Efficient Cooking Process
The cooking time for this recipe is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner when you’re pressed for time:
– Cook Time: Approximately 25 minutes
– Total Time: About 35 minutes
– Yield: Serves 4
A Perfectly Balanced Dish
This recipe allows you to enjoy a balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors while benefiting from a combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Not only is this dish satisfying, but it’s also versatile and can be customized by adding your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado slices for an extra layer of flavor.
The Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular meal rotation. Packed with nutrients and full of bold flavors, it’s bound to be a family favorite every time you serve it. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a stress-free, wholesome dinner!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
– Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then dice them into small, evenly sized cubes, approximately 1/2 inch. This will ensure even cooking.
– Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
– Gather all spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
– Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a splash of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil.
– Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
– Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
– Reduce the heat to medium and add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
– Break the meat apart using a spatula or wooden spoon, and cook until it’s fully browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
– If necessary, drain any excess grease from the skillet once the beef is cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
– Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet with the cooked beef mixture. Stir everything together.
– Sprinkle the spice mixture (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) over the sweet potatoes and beef.
– Stir to evenly coat the mixture with the spices.
Step 5: Add Liquid and Cover
– Pour approximately 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet to help the sweet potatoes steam and cook faster. Stir everything again.
– Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Incorporate Additional Ingredients
– Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed (adding more salt, pepper, or spices as desired).
– Optionally, stir in a handful of fresh chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added freshness.
Step 7: Serve
– Remove the skillet from the heat.
– Serve the southwest ground beef and sweet potato mixture warm. It can be eaten as-is or over rice, quinoa, or greens for a complete meal.
Notes
Note 1: Customizing the Spices
– Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Note 2: Storage and Reheating
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Note 3: Modifications and Dietary Preferences
– To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
– Sweet potatoes can be swapped for regular potatoes or another starchy vegetable if desired.
Note 4: Topping Suggestions
– Consider topping the finished dish with shredded cheese, diced avocado, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added flavor.
Note 5: Serving Ideas
– This dish pairs well with tortillas for a taco-inspired meal or as a filling for burritos. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
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Cook Techniques
How to Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Cook the diced sweet potatoes in a hot skillet with a little olive oil. Stir them frequently so they don’t burn, and cook until they’re just starting to soften. Remove them from the skillet and set aside before cooking the beef.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet after the sweet potatoes are out. Break the beef into smaller pieces and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Cooking the Vegetables and Spices
Once the beef is cooked, add the diced red peppers, black beans, corn, and spices to the skillet. Stir everything together evenly, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the ingredients for a minute or two.
Combining Everything and Finishing
Add the partially cooked sweet potatoes back to the skillet with the rest of the cooked ingredients. Stir them together and cook over medium heat until the sweet potatoes are tender and all ingredients are well-combined. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative, depending on your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare this skillet meal in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Once fully cooked, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with this skillet meal?
You can enjoy it on its own or serve it with a side of rice, quinoa, or tortilla chips. It’s also great as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder, cumin, or other spices. Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapenos for extra heat.
What can I use as a substitute for black beans?
If you don’t have black beans, you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas as substitutes. They will all work well in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before eating.
Conclusion
The Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a perfect one-pan meal bursting with vibrant flavors, nutritious ingredients, and easy preparation. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days. The combination of savory beef, wholesome sweet potatoes, and bold Southwest spices ensures a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Its versatility also allows for creative variations and pairings to tailor the meal to your tastes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers
Try using the Southwest-inspired filling from your skillet recipe to stuff bell peppers. Bake them for a delicious, colorful, and balanced dinner option.
Southwest Wraps
Turn this dish into a wrap by filling a tortilla with the ground beef and sweet potato skillet mixture. Add toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Layered Southwest Casserole
Transform the recipe into a baked casserole by layering the skillet mixture with tortillas and cheese. Bake until bubbly for a comforting and hearty meal.
Southwest Breakfast Hash
Repurpose leftovers by serving the skillet mix as a breakfast hash. Top with fried or poached eggs for a protein-packed start to your morning.
Loaded Southwest Sweet Potatoes
Bake whole sweet potatoes and top them with the ground beef and sweet potato skillet mixture. Garnish with green onions, jalapenos, and your favorite sauce.
Southwest Rice or Quinoa Bowls
Serve the skillet recipe over rice or quinoa for a complete grain bowl. Add extra toppings like corn, black beans, and salsa for more Southwestern flair.
