Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet

This ground beef and sweet potato skillet is what a quick and healthy dinner is all about! It's loaded with veggies, simple seasonings, and a tasty tomato sauce.

All I can say is WOW—I’ve got the coziest, most flavourful one-pan meal for you! This ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a meal-prep favorite in our house—simple, nourishing, and perfect for busy weeks.

Lean ground beef, sweet potato chunks, black beans and peppers simmer in a rich tomato sauce with spices, while kale adds a savory, nutritious touch. Customize the veggies to your liking, and try topping it with avocado or guacamole. Serve over rice, pita, or extra steamed veggies for a meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients you’ll need

To make this sweet potato and ground beef recipe, you'll need just a few fresh ingredients and aromatics:

• Ground Beef: Extra-lean 90% is my go-to so I don't have to drain any excess fat, but feel free to use 80% and drain any excess if you prefer.
• Beans: A can of black beans adds great texture, fibre, and protein, but you can use any beans or skip them altogether.
• Veggies: Sweet potatoes, bell pepper, kale, and red onion bring flavor, colour, and nutrients.
• Seasonings: A simple blend of cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for depth and warmth.
• Tomatoes: I use canned diced tomatoes, but you could also try canned plum tomatoes, passata, or about 6 fresh tomatoes.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Cook the Beef: Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef once the pan is hot, cooking for 3–4 minutes while breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Vegetables: Stir in the sweet potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and seasonings, cooking for 4–5 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender.

Add Sauce and beans: Pour in the tomatoes, black beans, and a splash of water. Stir, letting everything simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Add Kale: Fold in the kale, then remove from heat.

Serve and enjoy! See below for serving suggestions*

Recipe Variations and Tips

• Add More Veggies: Try mixing in button mushrooms, green beans, or frozen corn for extra flavor and texture.
• Swap the Protein: Use ground pork, turkey, or any other ground meat you prefer.
• Save Time: Use pre-chopped sweet potatoes and mixed veggies to speed up prep time.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Grains: Serve over white or brown rice, or try it with quinoa.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• As-Is: Scoop into bowls and top with avocado, guacamole, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
• Quesadilla Filling: Use as a filling for quesadillas.
• Taco or Burrito Filling: Perfect in tacos or burritos—just add coriander (cilantro), avocado, and pickled red onions.
• With Extra Veggies: Pair with Roasted Green Beans & Carrots, Air Fryer Frozen Cauliflower or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

How to store

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water if needed.
• You can freeze this in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Recipe FAQ

More one-pan meals

One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo (Risoni)

Chili Without Tomatoes

Maple Chicken + Veggies

One Pot Black Bean Curry

If you try this ground beef and sweet potato skillet recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.

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