Just when you thought comfort food couldn’t get any better, here comes a dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the sweet, creamy goodness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, offering a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- The natural sweetness of the potatoes perfectly complements the savory ground beef, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Packed with nutrients, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious, thanks to the vitamins in sweet potatoes and the protein in beef.
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices or additional veggies, making it a versatile recipe for any palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
To the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This will build a flavor base for your dish.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sweet Potatoes
Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet along with the salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together to ensure the potatoes are well coated with the spices and aromatics.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider browning the sweet potatoes in a separate pan before adding them to the beef. This will give them a slightly caramelized exterior. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the sweet potatoes for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet to reduce cooking time. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add some heat with diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Top with cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You may need to add a little extra broth when reheating to bring back the moisture.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are recommended for their flavor and nutritional benefits, you can certainly use regular potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
Summary
This sweet potato ground beef recipe is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and customizable to suit any taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy.