Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – Easy One-Pan Meal (2)

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and delicious one-pan meal packed with protein and vegetables. This comforting dish combines savory ground beef, naturally sweet potatoes, crisp brussels sprouts, and tender carrots—all cooked together in a single skillet with warm, aromatic spices like chili powder, fresh ginger, and garlic. Perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and ideal for busy weeknights.

Why Make This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe?

Balanced and Nutritious
This wholesome Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is rich in lean protein, complex carbs, and essential nutrients. The sweet potatoes and carrots provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin A, while brussels sprouts add even more vitamins and antioxidants—making it a complete, nourishing meal in every bite.

Simple One-Pan Meal
What makes this recipe a weeknight favorite is its simplicity. Everything cooks in just one skillet, saving you both time and cleanup. With the ease of preparation and minimal mess, this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet proves that healthy cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.

Full of Flavor
From the smoky warmth of chili powder to the earthy aroma of garlic and ginger, every spoonful is bursting with bold, balanced flavors. The sweet potatoes bring a subtle natural sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the savory beef, while the brussels sprouts lend a pleasant texture and slight bitterness that rounds out the dish.

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – Easy One-Pan Meal

📝 Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

This hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet comes together using simple, wholesome ingredients. Below is a detailed list of what you need, along with smart substitutions to fit your dietary needs or what you have on hand.

1 pound lean ground beef
This forms the protein-rich base of your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, bringing savory flavor and satisfying texture.
Substitute: Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.

1 teaspoon chili powder
Adds warmth and a mild kick that complements the sweet potatoes.
Substitute: Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor, or adjust based on your spice level.

1 teaspoon dried basil
Adds a hint of sweetness and earthy herb flavor.
Substitute: Italian seasoning or dried oregano can be used if basil is unavailable.

¾ teaspoon salt (plus 1 teaspoon for vegetables)
Enhances the flavor of both the beef and vegetables.
Substitute: Low-sodium salt or adjust to taste.

½ teaspoon black pepper
Brings gentle heat and balances the dish.
Tip: Add more if you prefer extra spice.

½ teaspoon onion powder (used twice)
Provides savory depth and pairs well with garlic.
Substitute: Use ¼ cup finely chopped onions for a more textured and aromatic result.

1 teaspoon minced garlic
Adds richness and aroma to the skillet.
Substitute: Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) works well if fresh garlic is not available.

½ teaspoon ground ginger
Adds a subtle warmth and a slightly sweet, zesty note.
Substitute: Use 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger for more intensity.

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Adds a gentle spicy edge.
Optional: Omit or increase based on your spice preference.

2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Used to sauté the beef and vegetables while adding healthy fats.
Substitute: Vegetable oil or coconut oil if that’s what you have.

2 cups carrots, peeled and diced
Bring natural sweetness and a soft crunch.
Substitute: Use parsnips or extra sweet potatoes for a different root vegetable flavor.

2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
The key ingredient in this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet, they add fiber, color, and natural sweetness.
Substitute: Butternut squash, pumpkin, or regular potatoes.

1 cup beef stock or broth
Helps to cook the vegetables evenly while infusing the dish with savory depth.
Substitute: Chicken or vegetable stock also works well. Water with a bouillon cube is another option.

1 pound brussels sprouts, diced
Adds crunch, fiber, and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
Substitute: Kale, spinach, or chopped cabbage for a leafy green variation.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – Easy One-Pan Meal (1)

Cook the ground beef
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it up into small crumbles. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
Season the meat with salt, black pepper, chili powder, onion powder, dried basil, and minced garlic. Stir everything together for an additional minute until the garlic becomes aromatic and well blended with the spices.
Remove the seasoned beef from the skillet and set it aside. This first step builds the savory flavor base for your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet.

Cook the vegetables
Using the same skillet (no need to clean it), add another tablespoon of oil and heat over medium. Add the diced sweet potatoes and carrots directly into the skillet. Season them with a second round of salt, chili powder, ground ginger, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Sauté the vegetables for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the edges of the sweet potatoes start to brown and caramelize slightly. This helps bring out their natural sweetness and gives your skillet a rich, roasted flavor.

Add the ground beef and brussels sprouts
Reduce the heat to medium. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and pour in the beef stock. Add the chopped brussels sprouts and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Make sure everything is evenly coated and distributed throughout the skillet. Then cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the brussels sprouts become tender but still bright in color.

Serve and enjoy
Once everything is cooked through, give the dish a final stir and taste for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired.
Serve your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet as a satisfying one-pan meal, or pair it with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or sharing with the whole family.

🍽️ How to Serve Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

This hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Thanks to its well-balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vegetables, it can easily stand on its own as a complete one-pan meal. For a lighter option, simply serve it as-is, straight from the skillet to the plate.

If you’re feeding a crowd or want to make the meal more filling, pair it with steamed jasmine or brown rice, quinoa, or even wide egg noodles. These additions soak up the savory juices from the skillet, making every bite extra satisfying.

For added freshness and balance, serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad, a side of roasted broccoli, or lightly steamed green beans. The contrast of textures and temperatures makes for a more dynamic and well-rounded dining experience.

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet also makes a great meal prep option—just divide into containers and enjoy throughout the week with your favorite sides or toppings.

🧊 How to Store Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Leftovers of this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet store beautifully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or easy heat-and-eat dinners. Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to reheat, place the portion in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or even a bit of olive oil to loosen the mixture and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until everything is heated through.

For longer storage, this dish also freezes well. Place the fully cooled skillet meal into a freezer-safe container or portion it into individual servings. Freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

Whether fresh or reheated, the flavors of this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet only get better with time—making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

✅ Tips to Make the Perfect Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – Easy One-Pan Meal (2)

Crafting a flavorful and balanced Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is easy with a few smart techniques. These tips will help you enhance both the flavor and texture of the dish, ensuring it turns out delicious every time.

Brown the ground beef properly
Take your time when browning the ground beef. Cook it over medium-high heat until it’s deeply browned and slightly crisp around the edges. This caramelization develops richer, deeper flavor and allows the meat to release its natural juices, which will infuse the entire skillet with savory goodness.

Cook sweet potatoes evenly
Sweet potatoes are dense and take a bit longer to soften compared to other vegetables. Dice them uniformly and sauté thoroughly until golden on the edges and fork-tender. If they’re still firm after a few minutes, cover the skillet with a lid and let them steam gently to speed up the cooking process.

Adjust seasoning to your taste
The spices in this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet can be easily tailored. Want it spicier? Add extra chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne. Prefer a milder taste? Dial back the spice and boost the flavor with more garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Use quality stock or broth
A rich beef broth adds depth and helps bring all the components together. If possible, opt for low-sodium stock so you can control the salt level more precisely.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet
If doubling the recipe or using smaller cookware, consider cooking the meat and vegetables in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects the texture.

🔄 Variations to Try

One of the best things about this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is its flexibility. Whether you’re working with different dietary needs or just want to switch things up, these variations let you keep the core flavors while adding your own twist.

Add beans for more protein and fiber
Toss in a can of drained black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas during the final few minutes of cooking. They add plant-based protein, hearty texture, and make the meal more filling without much extra effort.

Swap the protein
Not in the mood for beef? This recipe works wonderfully with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ground lamb brings a bold, earthy flavor if you’re craving something different.

Make it spicy
Love heat? Amp up the chili powder, add a dash of cayenne, or toss in diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables. You could also stir in a spoonful of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy depth.

Try other veggies
Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms based on what’s in season or in your fridge.

Go Tex-Mex style
Add cumin, smoked paprika, and corn kernels. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a skillet that tastes like a deconstructed taco.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different protein in this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet?
Yes, absolutely. While ground beef offers a rich and hearty base, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based protein crumbles for a vegetarian or lighter version. Each variation brings its own unique flavor and texture, making this skillet meal highly adaptable.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Allow the cooked skillet to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or portion it into individual servings for easy future meals. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

🥘 Conclusion

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a quick weeknight dinner—it’s a wholesome, well-balanced meal that brings together comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor in one pan. With tender ground beef, sweet roasted potatoes, hearty brussels sprouts, and carrots all infused with warming spices like chili powder and ginger, this dish satisfies both the body and the palate.

Whether you serve it solo, with rice, or topped with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices, this one-skillet wonder is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s ideal for busy nights, great for meal prepping, and flexible enough to customize with your favorite proteins, veggies, and seasonings.

Give this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet a try—and enjoy a nourishing, fuss-free dinner that everyone at the table will love.

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Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet – Easy One-Pan Meal (1)

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Author: Ms Hoa
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Description

Quick and healthy Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet with carrots, brussels sprouts, and warm spices. A perfect weeknight dinner in just one pan!

Ingredients
  

  •  pound lean ground beef
  • chili powder
  •  dried basil
  •  salt
  • black pepper
  •  onion powder
  • minced garlic
  • olive or avocado oil
  •  carrots peeled and diced
  • sweet potatoes peeled and diced
  • chili powder
  • ground ginger
  •  onion powder
  •  crushed red pepper
  •  beef stock or broth
  • brussels sprouts diced

Instructions
 

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, basil, and garlic.
  • Add another tablespoon of oil and cook the diced sweet potatoes and carrots with seasoning for 5-10 minutes, until browned.
  • Add beef back to the skillet, along with beef stock and brussels sprouts. Cover and simmer for 5-8 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  • Serve alone or with rice or noodles.

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