Introduction to Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
If you're searching for a delicious, wholesome meal that won't take all evening to prepare, look no further than this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. Perfectly crafted for busy weeknights, skillet meals simplify cooking while packing in flavor and nutrition.
Why Choose a Skillet Meal for Busy Weeknights?
Skillet meals like this one are game-changers for hectic schedules. With just one pan required, clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to unwind after a long day. Who doesn’t love a hearty dinner without the fuss? Beyond convenience, this ground beef and sweet potato skillet is loaded with protein and veggies, contributing to a balanced diet. Did you know that incorporating sweet potatoes can add essential vitamins like A and C to your meal plan? They not only enhance the flavor but also provide dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
This versatile dish is complete with lean ground beef, fresh brussels sprouts, and a medley of spices. Feel free to make it your own by swapping in ground turkey or different vegetables to suit your tastes. For more tips on maximizing your weeknight meals, check out this resource for safe cooking practices that will elevate your culinary skills!
With the ease of preparation and packed nutrition, your weeknight dinners will never be the same. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Essential ingredients for a hearty skillet
To whip up a delicious ground beef and sweet potato skillet, you’ll need some key ingredients that not only bring flavor but also nourishment. Start with 1 pound of lean ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer a lighter twist). Add 2 cups of diced sweet potatoes and 2 cups of diced carrots for a hearty vegetable base. You can also include 1 pound of diced brussels sprouts for that extra crunch. Don’t forget to grab some pantry staples, like chili powder, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning, and a splash of beef stock to tie it all together.
Optional spices and variations
Feeling adventurous? Spice up your skillet with ground ginger for warmth or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick—adjust according to your heat preference. You can easily swap the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile. For more veggie goodness, toss in additional greens like spinach or kale. Get creative and make this recipe your own while keeping it wholesome! If you want to dive deeper into the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes, this article explores why they are a great addition to your meals.
Step-by-step preparation for Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Creating a delicious ground beef and sweet potato skillet doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Let’s dive right in!
Brown the ground beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, add 1 pound of lean ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer). Use a spatula to crumble the meat, breaking it up into small pieces. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 5–7 minutes. The browned meat creates a rich flavor base for your skillet that is simply irresistible!
Once browned, season your beef with 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic. Continue to sauté for about one more minute, allowing those aromatic spices to release their flavors. Then, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Add and sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Wait until the oil shimmers, then toss in 2 cups of diced sweet potatoes and 2 cups of diced carrots. These veggies not only add nutrition but also some delightful sweetness that complements the ground beef.
Season the veggies with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (feel free to adjust based on your heat preference). Sauté these for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Browning your vegetables enhances their flavors and texture, adding depth to your dish.
Combine all ingredients and simmer
After the sweet potatoes and carrots are cooked just right, it’s time to bring everything back together. Lower the heat to medium and return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Add 1 cup of beef stock and 1 pound of diced brussels sprouts. Stir everything to combine, ensuring even distribution of flavors. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 5 to 8 minutes or until the brussels sprouts are tender to your liking. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.
Adjust seasoning to your taste
Before serving, taste your ground beef and sweet potato skillet to see if it needs any additional seasoning. Depending on your taste preferences, you might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Serve and enjoy
Once your skillet is bursting with flavors, it’s time to serve! This dish can stand alone or accompany a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy the delicious medley of flavors that you’ve created. Gather your friends or family around the table, and savor every bite of this nourishing and satisfying skillet dish!
If you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, this ground beef and sweet potato skillet is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations—we love hearing about your kitchen adventures!
Variations on Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Swap in Different Proteins
If you're looking to mix it up, consider substituting ground turkey for beef in this ground beef and sweet potato skillet recipe. Ground turkey is a leaner option that still delivers excellent flavor. You can also try ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Whichever protein you choose, make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Explore Veggie Substitutions for Diverse Tastes
Don’t hesitate to get creative with vegetables! Instead of brussels sprouts, you could use green beans or kale for a different texture and flavor. Swapping in zucchini or butternut squash can add a subtle sweetness that complements the sweet potato beautifully. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s in your fridge or what’s in season. Check out this comprehensive guide on seasonal vegetables for inspiration!
By varying your ingredients, you'll keep this one-pan meal exciting and tailored to your personal taste.
Cooking tips and notes for Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Achieving the perfect texture
To ensure your ground beef and sweet potato skillet has the best texture, aim for a nicely browned exterior on your sweet potatoes and carrots. Sauté them on medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning and encourage even cooking. The goal is to achieve a tender inside with a slight crispiness on the outside.
Time-saving tricks for busy cooks
For those of you juggling a busy lifestyle, here are some quick tips:
- Pre-chop vegetables: Spend a few minutes chopping your sweet potatoes and carrots ahead of time, maybe during your weekend meal prep.
- Use frozen veggies: If you’re short on time, frozen brussels sprouts can be a great shortcut—simply toss them in towards the end of cooking.
- One-pan convenience: Embrace this one-pot dish! It minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, which is perfect for a weeknight meal.
These small adjustments can help speed things up without sacrificing taste! Enjoy cooking your delicious ground beef and sweet potato skillet!
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
Beef
- 1 pound lean ground beef Can use ground turkey if preferred
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
Veggies
- 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
- 2 cups carrots peeled and diced
- 2 cups sweet potatoes peeled and diced, This is about 1 large potato or 2 medium potatoes. You're welcome to leave unpeeled if you like
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper Use ½ teaspoon for more heat
- 1 cup beef stock or broth
- 1 pound brussels sprouts diced
Instructions
Preparation Instructions
- Add your ground beef (or turkey) to a large skillet on the stovetop. Use a spatula to crumble the meat. Cook on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Stir in salt, pepper, chili powder, onion powder, basil, and minced garlic. Sauté for one more minute so garlic is golden in color. Remove beef and garlic from pan and set aside.
- Add the oil to the skillet. Once hot, add diced sweet potatoes and carrots. Season with salt, chili powder, ground ginger, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until sides of potatoes have browned.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add ground beef back to the pan along with beef stock and diced brussels sprouts. Stir. Cover and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until brussels sprouts are tender to your liking.
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