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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

A delightful one-pan meal featuring savory ground beef and crispy sweet potatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Infuses a rich, buttery base.
  • 0.5 cup diced onion Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef The star protein of this recipe.
  • 5 teaspoons chili powder (divided) A warm blend of spices.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Offers an earthy flavor.
  • to taste Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon grated garlic Contributes robust aroma.
  • 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes Adds nutrition and sweetness.
  • 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes Provides juicy flavor.
  • 4 ounces canned diced green chiles Adds mild heat.
  • 1/4 cup water Helps in simmering.
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melts for richness.
  • to taste Cilantro for garnish (optional) Adds freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add ground beef and diced onion. Crumble the beef and mix with onions. Season with 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. When the beef is nearly cooked, stir in the grated garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Transfer mixture to a plate and wipe out the skillet.
Cooking
  1. In the same skillet, toss in diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, and water. Sprinkle in the remaining chili powder and cumin. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Cover the skillet and reduce heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  3. Once the sweet potatoes are ready, return the beef mixture to the skillet and stir until evenly mixed.
Finishing Touches
  1. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover until the cheese melts, about 1 minute.
  2. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

Consider marinating the ground beef with spices for enhanced flavor. Variations include using other meats or adding vegetables.