Dinner

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Name: Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

ByElla Hart April 7, 2026April 7, 2026

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Introduction

This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful meal ready in about 30 minutes. Combining tender sweet potatoes, seasoned beef, and black beans, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to make.

A white bowl filled with a mix of cooked ground beef, orange chunks of sweet potato, and diced tomatoes, all topped with melted cheese and a few green herbs scattered on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface near a window, with natural light highlighting the textures of the food, showing the soft and juicy look of the meat and vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies (with liquid), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Remove the lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more if there is excess liquid.
Step 6: If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover briefly until the cheese melts, about 1 minute.
Step 7: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For added heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use frozen sweet potato cubes to save prep time, just add a few extra minutes to cooking.
Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.