Dinner

Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

ByZoe Lane April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

Introduction

This Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and easily. Packed with savory spices, tender sweet potatoes, and black beans, it’s a satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week.

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 extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices to add creaminess.
Use sweet potato cubes of uniform size to ensure even cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the skillet moist.