This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is one of those hearty, comforting meals that’s surprisingly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. With tender cubes of sweet potatoes nestled into savory, seasoned ground beef, it delivers a balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich, umami-packed beef, while fresh herbs and spices bring it all together into a cohesive and cozy skillet dish.

Not only is this skillet dinner flavorful and filling, but it’s also wholesome and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep hero, a weeknight family favorite, or a one-pan solution to dinner dilemmas, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, and you can customize it with veggies, cheese, or even a fried egg on top for a next-level twist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, you’ll only need a few kitchen basics, but each plays a key role in bringing this dish together:

Cast Iron or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: This is the star tool of the recipe. A good skillet ensures even heat distribution, helps brown the beef beautifully, and holds heat to cook the sweet potatoes through without burning them.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for breaking up the ground beef and stirring without scratching the pan surface.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: You’ll want clean, even cuts on your sweet potatoes for uniform cooking. A sharp knife makes prep fast and safe.

Cutting Board: Opt for a sturdy one with enough space to dice your veggies comfortably.
Measuring Spoons: Because seasoning matters! Having your spices measured correctly helps keep flavors balanced.

With these tools in hand, you’re ready to create a sizzling skillet meal that’s both simple and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose beyond flavor — together, they create a balanced, one-pan meal:

Ground Beef: The protein backbone of the dish, it adds rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
Sweet Potatoes: These bring a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the beef. They’re also loaded with fiber and vitamins.

Yellow Onion: A foundational aromatic that deepens the flavor of the entire skillet.
Garlic: Adds sharp, aromatic depth and rounds out the flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps sauté everything smoothly and adds a touch of richness.

Smoked Paprika: Lends a warm, smoky flavor that enhances both the beef and sweet potatoes.
Cumin: Brings an earthy spice that ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: A burst of color and freshness to finish off the dish.

How To Make the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Crumble in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Sweet Potato Time

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir well to coat in the beef and aromatics. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup), cover with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Freshen It Up

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Scoop into bowls and serve immediately. Optionally, top with a fried egg, shredded cheese, or hot sauce for added flair.

How to Serve and Store Your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This dish is meant to be enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet. You can serve it family-style right at the table or portion it into individual bowls for easy serving. It pairs wonderfully with a side of sautéed greens or a simple salad for extra color and crunch. If you want to take it to the next level, top each serving with a fried egg, dollop of Greek yogurt, or your favorite shredded cheese.

For storing, allow the skillet to cool completely. Transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes well — portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use?

You can use 85% or 90% lean ground beef for the best balance between flavor and less grease. If using a fattier blend, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning.

Can I substitute the sweet potatoes?

Absolutely. Butternut squash or regular potatoes work well, though sweet potatoes add a unique touch of natural sweetness.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up beautifully in the fridge and reheats well without losing flavor or texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep the hearty texture while making it vegetarian.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A quick reheat in a skillet with a splash of water keeps it from drying out. The microwave works too, just cover to retain moisture.

Are there optional add-ins?

Yes! Try adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, black beans, or even a sprinkle of feta for extra protein and flavor variety.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, check out these satisfying, one-pan meals from my collection:

Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe for a spicy veggie-packed twist.
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe if you want something cozy and old-fashioned.

One Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Rice for a sweet-savory kick.
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini if you love pasta and beef in one bowl.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for creamy skillet goodness.

And for even more recipes, follow my daily creations on Pinterest @scherer29 — your next favorite dish might be waiting!

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you gave it a twist—did you go spicy or cheesy? Did you try topping it with a fried egg?

I love seeing your spins on my recipes. And if you have questions, don’t hesitate—drop them below so we can cook smarter, together!

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal. Made with tender sweet potatoes, savory ground beef, and warm spices, it’s a satisfying dinner that comes together quickly. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a hearty family dinner, this gluten-free dish delivers flavor, texture, and easy cleanup.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and mix well with the beef and aromatics.

4. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly coat the mixture.

5. Pour in 1/4 cup water, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 10–12 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Remove lid and stir. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

7. Serve hot with optional toppings like a fried egg, shredded cheese, or hot sauce.

Notes

Dice the sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

Don’t skip the water + lid step—it helps soften the potatoes perfectly.

Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 360

Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 21g

Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g

Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: ground beef, sweet potatoes, one-pan meal