This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a weeknight dream. It delivers everything you want in a one-pan meal: flavor, comfort, and zero fuss. The balance of hearty ground beef and naturally sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes makes this dish a go-to when you need something fast, filling, and nutritious.

What makes this skillet so irresistible is how simple ingredients transform into something incredibly satisfying. The beef brings savory richness, the sweet potatoes get soft and crispy on the edges, and just the right mix of spices ties everything together. It’s cozy, it’s family-friendly, and it doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes in its wake.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This is one of those recipes that earns a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s protein-packed, naturally gluten-free, and easily adaptable for paleo or Whole30 diets. You can add veggies, swap the spices, or top it with eggs for a brunch-ready twist. Plus, it comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re meal prepping or scrambling for dinner on a busy weeknight, this skillet is always the answer. The flavor is comforting but not boring, and the texture contrast between beef and sweet potatoes keeps every bite interesting.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken both work beautifully if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to season generously since they have a milder flavor than beef. A splash of Worcestershire or coconut aminos helps boost that umami goodness if you go the poultry route.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

This skillet dinner proves that humble ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delicious. Each component plays an important role in building flavor and balance in the dish.

Ground beef
Sweet potatoes
Onion
Garlic
Bell pepper
Paprika
Cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Fresh parsley

Ground beef is the protein foundation of the skillet, offering richness and a satisfying bite. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and heartiness that balance the savory beef. Onion and garlic deepen the flavor base while bell pepper gives a soft crunch and a burst of color. A mix of paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper layers in warm spice and just the right kick. Everything comes together in olive oil, which helps crisp the sweet potatoes and gives the dish a silky finish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and brightness.

How To Make the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and soften.

Step 2: Add Onion and Bell Pepper

Toss in chopped onion and bell pepper. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and the peppers are tender.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to the side and add ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Season Everything

Stir in minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, and serve straight from the skillet. It’s delicious as-is or with a fried egg on top for extra comfort.

How to Serve and Store Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also a great base for customization. It comfortably serves 4 people and works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

For leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the warm, rich skillet flavors.

Fried or Poached Egg

Add a runny egg on top for a brunch-style upgrade. The yolk adds creaminess and makes it extra satisfying.

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado brings a cool contrast and healthy fats that balance the warm spices in the skillet.

Steamed Broccoli

If you want to amp up the veggies, broccoli is a great choice. Its mild bitterness works beautifully with the sweet potatoes.

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Whisk some Greek yogurt with garlic and lemon juice for a tangy drizzle that adds a Mediterranean touch.

Cauliflower Rice

If you want to keep it low-carb, serve the skillet over cauliflower rice for added texture.

Cornbread Muffins

A side of fluffy cornbread makes this dish even more comforting, especially for cooler nights.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this hearty skillet, here are more quick and cozy one-pan meals to try next:

Try the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a rich vegetarian dinner.
Craving something ultra comforting? The Ooey Gooey Butter Cake makes a sweet companion to any savory meal.
For another savory skillet vibe, the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl brings loads of flavor in a single pan.
Looking for a side dish with dinner? The Classic Caprese Salad adds freshness and balance.

Save This Recipe For Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with turkey or top it with an egg? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to skillet meals.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is proof that simple, wholesome ingredients can create a deeply flavorful, crave-worthy meal. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly flexible — everything a weeknight dinner should be. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing solo meal or something the whole family will love, this skillet won’t disappoint.