Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet

Sweet potatoes and ground beef create a perfect harmony in this hearty one-pan meal. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances beautifully with the savory beef, while a blend of warm spices transforms simple ingredients into a crave-worthy dinner that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.

I've made this countless times for my family, especially during fall when sweet potatoes are at their peak. My children, who usually shy away from sweet potatoes, clean their plates every time. The combination of textures – tender sweet potatoes and perfectly seasoned ground beef – makes this dish truly special.

Essential Ingredients Selection

• Ground Beef: Choose 90% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. The meat should have a bright red color with minimal white marbling
• Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Medium-sized ones cook more evenly than large ones
• Fresh Garlic: Select firm, heavy heads with tight, unbroken skin. Fresh garlic provides more depth than pre-minced varieties
• Cumin and Paprika: These spices are crucial for depth – always check their freshness by smelling them. If you can't smell them, it's time for new ones

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Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by heating your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait until it shimmers – this ensures proper searing temperature

Step 2:

Add diced onions to the hot oil, stirring frequently until they become translucent and their edges start caramelizing slightly, about 5-7 minutes

Step 3:

Introduce minced garlic, stirring constantly for exactly 45 seconds – this releases the oils without burning

Step 4:

Push vegetables to one side and add ground beef in a single layer. Let it brown undisturbed for 3 minutes before breaking it into smaller pieces

Step 5:

Once beef is mostly browned, incorporate sweet potato cubes, ensuring each piece makes contact with the pan

Step 6:

Sprinkle seasonings evenly across the mixture, then stir to coat every ingredient

Step 7:

Pour in beef broth, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover

Step 8:

Check sweet potato tenderness at 12 minutes by piercing with a fork – they should offer little resistance

Step 9:

If adding optional ingredients like bell peppers or beans, stir them in now

Step 10:

Remove lid and let excess liquid evaporate for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally

Growing up, my grandmother always said sweet potatoes were nature's candy. She'd add them to unexpected dishes, and this recipe reminds me of her creative cooking style. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes caramelize slightly during cooking, creating delicious browned bits in the pan.

Additional Important Details

Time Management Mastery: Cut sweet potatoes while the onions are cooking to maximize efficiency. This simple step saves precious minutes during busy weeknight cooking sessions.

Temperature Control Benefits: Maintaining proper heat throughout cooking ensures even browning and prevents sticking. If your pan starts smoking, don't hesitate to lower the heat slightly.

Texture Perfection: The key to perfectly cooked sweet potatoes lies in their size consistency. Aim for 1/2-inch cubes - any larger and they'll take too long to cook through, any smaller and they might become mushy.

Flavor Enhancement: Let the finished dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief pause allows flavors to settle and marry together, creating a more cohesive taste experience.

Leftover Magic: Transform leftovers into a completely new meal by adding a fried egg on top for breakfast or wrapping in tortillas for lunch tacos.

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I've spent years perfecting one-pan meals, and this recipe stands out as one of my favorites. The combination of thoughtful preparation and simple ingredients creates something truly special. Remember, cooking is about bringing joy to your table - don't stress if your sweet potato cubes aren't perfectly uniform or if you need to adjust the seasoning to your taste. What matters most is creating a meal that your family will love and remember.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I meal prep this skillet dinner?

Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.

→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

Regular potatoes, butternut squash, or cauliflower work well as alternatives.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check your broth if using.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef in this recipe.

→ Why might I need to add broth?

Broth helps steam the sweet potatoes and prevents the dish from drying out while cooking.