Craving a hearty dinner that comes together in just one pan? This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a flavor-packed, protein-rich, and veggie-loaded solution perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Savory ground beef is browned and seasoned to perfection, then paired with tender, naturally sweet chunks of sweet potato that balance the richness. With just a handful of pantry spices and a quick simmer, you’ll have a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. It’s the kind of dish that feels both satisfying and wholesome in every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this skillet dinner seamless, having the right tools on hand is key:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Opt for a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet that conducts heat evenly. This ensures your beef browns without burning and your sweet potatoes cook through without sticking.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For breaking up the ground beef and stirring everything together without scratching your pan.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Sweet potatoes can be tough to chop, so a sturdy knife is essential for clean cuts.
Cutting Board: Use a large, non-slip board for chopping your veggies safely.
Lid for the Skillet (optional): Helps steam the sweet potatoes quickly and evenly when covered during the final cook time.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef: The star protein of the dish. Choose lean ground beef to keep it light but flavorful.
Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and nutritious, they add a soft texture and beautiful color contrast.
Yellow Onion: Builds the flavor foundation and complements the beef beautifully.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and warmth to the skillet.
Paprika & Cumin: These spices bring smokiness and an earthy warmth that enhances the beef.
Chili Powder: Optional for heat, it adds a mild kick to balance the sweet potato.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it helps everything cook evenly and adds richness.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: For brightness and a fresh finish at the end.

How To Make the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your wooden spoon or spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using). Stir well to coat the beef in the spices.

Step 4: Add Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Pour in a splash of water (around 1/4 cup) to help steam the potatoes.

Step 5: Simmer and Soften

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Uncover the skillet and let any remaining liquid evaporate. Adjust seasoning to taste, then sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Serving and Storing the Skillet

Serve this dish piping hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a light side salad, steamed greens, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. For a heartier meal, spoon it over rice or quinoa.

Storing leftovers? Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. A splash of hot sauce works well too!

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground alternatives work great in this recipe.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional. The skin is edible and adds extra fiber, but for a softer texture, you can peel them.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Dice your sweet potatoes and onion in advance, and store them in the fridge. You can even pre-cook the beef and store it separately.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It is! Cool it down, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I use instead of fresh herbs?

Dried parsley or cilantro can be used in a pinch, though fresh herbs provide better flavor and brightness.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a rich and creamy pasta dish perfect for weeknights. Or try the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe if you’re craving comfort with a spicy twist.

For cozy soups, check out the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup or warm up with a bowl of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

And if you’re feeling bold, the Italian Grinder Salad is a crunchy, zesty side that complements this skillet beautifully.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your easy dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add cheese? Maybe swap in ground turkey? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others enjoy this recipe.

Looking for more easy and comforting meals? Check out my daily recipe shares over on Pinterest @LadyPlate.

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a one-pan wonder, ideal for weeknight dinners. Savory beef is browned and seasoned, then simmered with tender sweet potatoes and spices until everything melds into a rich, hearty, and nutritious meal. Balanced in flavor and simple in technique, it’s a comfort dish you’ll revisit again and again.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Season with paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly.

5. Add diced sweet potatoes and mix well. Pour in water and stir.

6. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.

7. Uncover and cook a few more minutes to evaporate any excess liquid.

8. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving.

Notes

Dice sweet potatoes into small, even pieces so they cook faster and more uniformly.

For meal prep, cook the beef ahead and refrigerate; just reheat with sweet potatoes when ready to eat.

Swap ground beef with turkey or a plant-based ground if you prefer a leaner or vegetarian version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Skillet Meals
Method: Sauté & Simmer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 410
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: ground beef, sweet potato, one-pan dinner