Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans

Ever find yourself staring into the pantry at 5 PM, wondering what on earth to make that’s fast, satisfying, and maybe even a little bit good for you? That’s precisely the problem this hearty skillet dinner solves. It’s a complete, all-in-one meal that brings together savory ground beef, sweet and creamy sweet potatoes, protein-packed black beans, and a handful of spices that all get happy together in a single pan. It’s got that down-home comfort food feel but with a nutritious twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? You can go from chopping board to dinner table in about 30 minutes. Now that’s my kind of weeknight win.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Skillet

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons. First, it’s a true one-pan wonder, meaning you’re not left with a mountain of dishes to tackle after you’ve finally sat down to eat. It’s packed with flavor and texture—the savory beef, the sweet potato, the hearty beans. So good. It’s also incredibly forgiving and flexible. Got an extra bell pepper or some corn kernels? Toss ’em in! This is one of those easy dinners that somehow feels special, like you really fussed, when all you did was throw a few simple ingredients together. Honestly, it’s a recipe I come back to again and again because it just works.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and building flavor.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty, savory base of the dish.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation.
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes: Provides a sweet, creamy texture and nutrients.
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced: Brings a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential savory kick.
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds plant-based protein and fiber.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Creates a simple, flavorful sauce.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: The main flavor powerhouse.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds warm, earthy depth.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a hint of herbal notes.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To season every layer.
• Optional garnish: Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Step by Step Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the diced onion, sweet potato, and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until the veggies begin to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot right from the skillet with your favorite toppings.

Equipment Needed for Preparation

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe, which is part of its charm! A large, oven-safe skillet (like a 12-inch cast iron or stainless steel pan) is the real MVP here, as it allows you to do all your cooking and simmering in one vessel. You’ll also need a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping your veggies, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a can opener. That’s really it!

Creative Variations to Try

This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your own creative touches. For a veggie-packed version, stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. If you’re looking for more easy pasta dinner recipes, try serving this mixture over a bed of whole wheat pasta or even stuffing it into tortillas for a burrito bowl vibe. Not a fan of beef? Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully. And if you want to turn up the heat, a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne will do the trick. Honestly, if you hate heat, skip the cayenne. It’s all about making it work for your crowd.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Leftovers are a beautiful thing! Let the skillet mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions in a bowl until hot, or warm it gently in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This dish also freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This skillet is a complete meal all on its own, but I love serving it with a few simple sides to round it out. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness. A scoop of cooked rice or quinoa is great for soaking up the delicious juices. For a real treat, top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a handful of fresh cilantro. And don’t forget a side of warm cornbread or crusty rolls for dipping!

Doneness Test for Ground Beef

The safest way to know your ground beef is fully cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, visually, the meat should be uniformly brown with no traces of pink, and the juices should run clear. Breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks ensures it browns evenly and cooks through quickly, which is key for these quick dinner ideas.

FAQs About This Recipe

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! This is one of those fantastic healthy dinner recipes that often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to mingle. Simply prepare as directed, cool, store, and reheat when you’re ready.
• Is this skillet spicy? Not as written! The spice blend is warm and flavorful but not hot. It’s totally family-friendly. If you want to add heat, that’s easy to do with some hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• What are some other cheap dinners for a family that are similar?This recipe is already a champion in that category! Other great options are hearty soups, chili, or a simple Southwest-inspired quinoa bowl using many of the same inexpensive, pantry-staple ingredients.