Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal to add to your weeknight dinner rotation? This one-pan ground beef and sweet potato recipe combines wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and convenient preparation to satisfy everyone at the table, whether you're a busy family, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys healthy, hearty meals.
With a mix of lean protein, nutrient-dense veggies, and a touch of seasoning, this meal checks all the boxes. The best part? You'll only need one pan and 30 minutes to bring this dish to life. Read on to learn how to make this healthy comfort food your new favorite recipe!
Why Ground Beef and Sweet Potato is a Winning Combo
Ground beef and sweet potato may seem like an unlikely pair, but together they create a balanced, flavorful dish. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Pairing this nutrient-packed vegetable with ground beef supplies you with protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. This combo also satisfies sweet and savory cravings, making it a winner for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients is perfect for time-crunched weeknights!
If you're aiming for a meal that's healthy yet indulgent, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses minimal, easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean or higher for a healthier option)
- 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cups fresh spinach (optional for added greens)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional toppings to enhance flavor:
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Avocado slices
- A drizzle of hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Recipe
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to dice your sweet potatoes, chop your vegetables, and mince your garlic. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, roughly 6–7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the diced sweet potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Next, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
4. Combine Everything
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the remaining smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the seasonings and well-mixed.
5. Add Spinach (Optional)
For an extra nutritional boost, toss in the fresh spinach during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Stir until the spinach wilts slightly and blends into the mixture.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Plate up your ground beef and sweet potato mixture. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or a few avocado slices for added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicier kick.
- Go Vegetarian: Swap ground beef with plant-based ground meat or diced tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add More Veggies: You can toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or kale along with the other vegetables for a more colorful and nutrient-rich dish.
- Batch Cook: This recipe reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Switch Up the Protein: Ground turkey or chicken work just as well if you're looking to switch up the protein.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This ground beef and sweet potato dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a solution. It:
- Saves Time: Comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Is Packed with Nutrition: A robust mix of protein, healthy carbohydrates, and veggies keeps you energized.
- Is Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild enough for kids yet satisfying for adults.
- Keeps Things Tidy: Only one pan to clean, so there’s less time spent washing dishes.
And while it’s a simple meal, the combination of sweet potatoes, seasoned beef, and savory spices creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Try this ground beef and sweet potato recipe for your next meal and fall in love with how effortless healthy cooking can be. For more recipes like this, visit our website, where you'll find delicious, wholesome dishes for every occasion.
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