Name: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean recommended); 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons water or broth (for steaming sweet potatoes); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

I’ve always had a soft spot for one-skillet meals. They’re the kind of dishes that make weeknights feel manageable, comforting, and downright delicious without requiring a pile of dishes. This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet has quickly become a regular in my dinner rotation—not just because it’s fast, but because it’s full of flavor, texture, and nourishment.

The sweet potatoes soften into buttery bites while soaking up the spiced beef, and the combination is just unbeatable. It’s hearty, slightly sweet, a little savory, and perfectly satisfying. I usually whip this up when I want something cozy and filling without turning on the oven or making a mess. Whether I’m cooking for myself or feeding the family, this skillet never lets me down.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s quick to cook, packed with flavor, and healthy enough to enjoy any day of the week. The sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber, while the ground beef provides satisfying protein. It’s also endlessly customizable—perfect for using up what’s in the fridge. Best of all, everything happens in one pan, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, I prefer using lean ground beef—typically 85/15 or 90/10. It provides just enough fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful without making the dish greasy. If you’re aiming for an even leaner meal, you can go with ground sirloin or even ground turkey, but for that classic, hearty flavor, beef is the winner. Just make sure to drain excess fat if using higher-fat blends to keep the skillet balanced.

Options for Substitutions

One of the reasons I love this recipe is how flexible it is. You can adapt it based on your dietary needs or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some simple swaps:

Sweet Potatoes: Swap with butternut squash or regular potatoes if you’re out. Even diced carrots can work in a pinch.
Ground Beef: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Add Greens: Toss in a few handfuls of spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients and color.
Spices: Add a smoky twist with chipotle powder or a Tex-Mex flavor using taco seasoning.
Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can easily be mixed in for more texture and color.

This recipe is super forgiving, so don’t be afraid to get creative with what’s in your kitchen.

Ingredients for This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef
The star of the dish, providing rich, savory flavor and protein. It creates the perfect contrast to the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Sweet Potatoes
They bring a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the seasoned meat. Plus, they’re loaded with fiber and vitamins.
Onion
Adds aromatic depth and a savory base to the skillet. It helps build the flavor from the very beginning.
Garlic
A must-have for extra punch and warmth. It infuses the skillet with a cozy, home-cooked aroma.
Olive Oil
Used for sautéing the vegetables and beef. It also adds a touch of richness.
Smoked Paprika
Gives the dish a warm, smoky undertone that elevates the overall flavor.
Cumin
Brings an earthy spice that blends well with both beef and sweet potatoes.
Salt & Pepper
Simple but essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the pan.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
Sprinkled at the end for a fresh finish and pop of color.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Have everything ready before you start cooking—it makes the process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil, then toss in the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Sweet Potatoes

Toss the diced sweet potatoes into the skillet. Stir them well to coat in the flavors left behind from the beef and aromatics. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and let them cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fork-tender.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the sweet potatoes are well coated and the beef is fully mixed in.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Let the skillet cook for another 2–3 minutes uncovered, allowing the flavors to meld and any extra liquid to evaporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

How Long to Cook the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes. Here’s the general breakdown:

5 minutes for ingredient prep
7–8 minutes to brown the beef and sauté the aromatics
10 minutes to cook the sweet potatoes until tender
5 minutes to combine and finish everything together

It’s the perfect timing for a busy weeknight dinner that feels hearty without being a hassle.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Cut the sweet potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Smaller cubes cook faster and get that soft, creamy texture you want.
Drain excess fat after cooking the ground beef, especially if you’re using anything higher than 85% lean. This keeps the skillet from getting greasy.
Don’t skip the spices. Cumin and smoked paprika add warmth and a deep savory kick. Adjust the amount based on your taste, but they really bring the dish to life.
Use a lid while cooking the sweet potatoes. A splash of water and a covered pan helps them steam and soften faster.
Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to settle and absorb.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using large chunks of sweet potato: Oversized pieces take longer to cook and may end up underdone while everything else is ready. Dice them small and uniform for even cooking.
Overcrowding the skillet: This traps steam and can make the dish soggy. If your pan is too small, cook in batches or switch to a larger skillet.
Skipping the drain step for the beef: If you don’t drain the excess fat, especially with fattier beef, the dish can turn out oily and heavy.
Forgetting to season in layers: Add salt and spices at different stages—when cooking the beef, the sweet potatoes, and during the final mix—for the most flavorful result.
Overcooking the sweet potatoes: Keep an eye on them after the first 8 minutes. They should be fork-tender, not mushy.

What to Serve With Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Sautéed Greens

Lightly wilted spinach or garlicky kale makes a great companion—nutritious and quick.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the skillet.

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado adds a cooling contrast and healthy fats.

Warm Tortillas

Use them to scoop the skillet mix or serve taco-style for a fun twist.

Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb base if you’re looking to stretch the meal or keep things lighter.

Fried or Poached Egg

Top each serving with an egg for a brunch-style vibe—yolk + beef = magic.

Pickled Jalapeños or Red Onions

These add a zingy contrast that cuts through the richness.

Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream

A spoonful on top cools things down and adds creamy tang.

Storage Instructions

This skillet stores like a dream, which makes it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Cool the dish completely before freezing. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep everything moist and prevent drying out.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general idea of what you’ll get per serving (assuming 4 servings total):

Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: ~420mg
Cholesterol: ~70mg

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the exact ingredients used, especially the fat content of the ground beef or any optional toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great and makes the dish a bit lighter. Just be sure to season well since they’re milder than beef.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Not necessarily. If you like the texture of the skin and it’s well-scrubbed, you can leave it on. I usually peel mine for a smoother bite.

Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?

Yes! Bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or even spinach can be added. Just make sure they’re chopped small so everything cooks evenly.

How do I keep the sweet potatoes from getting mushy?

Cut them into uniform pieces and don’t overcook. Once they’re fork-tender, they’re ready. Cooking them covered for too long will make them overly soft.

Is this recipe spicy?

Nope—unless you want it to be. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce to bring the heat if that’s your thing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully. Make it up to 3 days in advance and warm it up when ready to serve.

Is this a good meal prep option?

Definitely. It keeps well, tastes great reheated, and you can portion it out for the week with a side of rice, salad, or greens.

Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, but you’ll lose the natural sweetness. Yukon gold or red potatoes are good options and cook similarly.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is one of those go-to meals that never fails. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and done in one pan—perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. You can tweak it endlessly, use up leftovers, and still end up with something hearty and satisfying. Whether you serve it solo, with a side of greens, or topped with an egg, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen too.