There’s something timeless and comforting about a simple skillet meal, especially when it stars wholesome ingredients like ground beef and sweet potatoes. This dish has become one of those weeknight go-tos that feels like a hug in a pan—warm, filling, and bursting with familiar flavors that satisfy every time.

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This recipe reminds me of chilly autumn evenings growing up, when my mom would throw together something hearty after a long day. She didn’t fuss over complicated meals—just real, nourishing food with a whole lot of love stirred in. Sweet potatoes were always a staple in our pantry, and the way they caramelize in the skillet adds such depth and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory beef and colorful veggies.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want to prep a few healthy meals for the week, this one-pan wonder checks all the boxes. It’s packed with protein, colorful vegetables, and a medley of seasonings that make it taste like it’s been simmering for hours—even though it comes together in under 45 minutes. Plus, fewer dishes to wash? Always a win.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

One-pan magic: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Wholesome ingredients: Loaded with protein, fiber, and veggies.
Meal prep friendly: Stores well and reheats like a dream.
Customizable: Toss in your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Comfort food with a healthy twist: Rich and hearty without being heavy.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup baby spinach
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATO SKILLET:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the chopped onion. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma at this point is just amazing—so warm and inviting.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks. This is when the skillet starts to really come to life.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes
Toss in the diced sweet potatoes and stir well to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sweet potatoes will start to soften and take on a lovely golden color on the edges.

Step 4: Veggie Time!
Next, add the chopped bell pepper and zucchini. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together so the spices coat all the ingredients. Let it cook uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the veggies are just the right amount of crisp-tender.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Garnish
Right before serving, toss in the baby spinach. It’ll wilt quickly from the heat—just a minute or two of stirring is all it takes. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve it up hot.

HELPFUL TIPS:

Cut your sweet potatoes small: Smaller cubes cook faster and evenly, so aim for ½-inch pieces.
Use a large enough skillet: Everything goes into one pan, so make sure it’s big enough to handle all the goodness without overcrowding.
Switch up the veggies: Don’t have zucchini? Try broccoli, kale, or mushrooms instead.
Add a fried egg on top: For a brunch twist, a runny egg on top makes it next-level delicious.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (optional)

NOTES:

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free. It’s also a great base for experimenting—try different herbs, veggies, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 375
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 7g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible and works well with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the meat with canned black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s still packed with protein.

What kind of skillet should I use?
A large non-stick or cast iron skillet works best. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the whole dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat and enjoy.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, just pop it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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CONCLUSION

There’s something magical about a skillet meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table without any fuss. This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is everything you want in a weekday dinner—hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your rotation.