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Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

A vibrant, hearty dish featuring savory ground beef and creamy sweet potatoes, seasoned with classic Southwest spices for a comforting family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil The foundation of your skillet, adding richness and ensuring even cooking.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion Adds sweetness and aroma.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Juicy and packed with protein.
  • 5 teaspoons chili powder Divided use for flavoring.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Adds depth and richness.
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper To taste, essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon grated garlic Gives a fragrant kick.
  • 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes Adds creaminess and sweetness.
  • 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes Adds moisture and smoky flavor.
  • 4 ounces canned diced green chiles Brings authentic Southwest flavor.
  • 1/4 cup water Helps blend flavors together.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese For topping, adds indulging melty texture.
  • Cilantro for garnish Optional, adds a fresh touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onion and ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the beef while cooking.
  3. Once the beef is nearly cooked, add 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Add grated garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  5. Transfer the beef mixture to a plate and wipe out the skillet.
Cooking
  1. Introduce diced sweet potatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, diced green chiles, and water into the same skillet.
  2. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin along with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir all ingredients and cover with a lid, lowering the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.
Finishing Touches
  1. Once sweet potatoes are tender, return the ground beef mixture to the skillet and stir to combine.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover with lid for about a minute, until cheese is melted.
  3. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

For added depth, consider browning onions before adding ground beef. Adjust chili powder for heat level. A splash of lime juice before serving brightens flavors.