Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet combining savory spiced ground beef with tender sweet potatoes, vibrant red bell pepper, and fresh spinach. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: avocado slices and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes, building flavor as the base of the dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Drain Excess Fat: Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness.
- Set Beef Aside: Remove the cooked ground beef mixture from the skillet and set it aside temporarily.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook over medium heat until they start to soften, approximately 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Add Red Bell Pepper: Add the chopped red bell pepper to the skillet with the sweet potatoes and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the peppers soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the ground beef mixture back to the skillet with the vegetables. Season everything with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the spices.
- Wilt the Spinach: Reduce the heat to low and fold in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and integrates into the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with avocado slices and freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this nutritious and flavorful skillet meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If sweet potatoes are not available, regular potatoes can be used but the cooking time may vary.
- Adjust chili powder according to preferred spice level.
- For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving.
- This recipe is great for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
