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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

A vibrant and satisfying skillet dish combining tender ground beef with sweet potatoes and a medley of Southwest spices for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southwest
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the skillet
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds fruity richness.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion Brings sweetness and aroma.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Provides a hearty base.
  • 5 teaspoons chili powder Adds spice, divided into 3 teaspoons and 2 teaspoons.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Enhances flavor.
  • Kosher salt Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste Seasoning to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon grated garlic Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes Provides sweetness and creamy texture.
  • 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes Adds a hint of smokiness.
  • 4 ounces canned diced green chiles Contributes to the spicy flavor.
  • 1/4 cup water Helps to cook the sweet potatoes.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese For topping, adds creaminess.
  • Cilantro for garnish (optional) Fresh touch for serving.

Method
 

Cook the Beef and Onions
  1. Begin heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add in the ground beef and diced onion, using a wooden spoon to crumble the beef.
  3. Season with 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, along with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
  4. When the beef is nearly cooked through, stir in the grated garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a plate and wipe the skillet clean.
Prepare Sweet Potatoes and Vegetables
  1. In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, and water.
  2. Sprinkle in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, along with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Stir everything together well, then cover the skillet with a lid.
  4. Lower the heat and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Combine and Melt
  1. After the sweet potatoes are soft, return the ground beef mixture to the skillet, stirring everything together to combine.
  2. Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the skillet once more for about a minute, or until the cheese is fully melted.
  3. For an optional fresh touch, garnish the dish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers or corn. To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with black beans or lentils, and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.