Description
1 lb ground beef
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
¼ cup beef broth
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Push the sweet potatoes to the side and add the ground beef and onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the diced zucchini, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Uncover and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, if using, and let it melt before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 350 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof one-skillet meal. First, ensure all vegetables are uniformly diced to promote even cooking. Heat the olive oil in a large, lidded skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potato and cook for exactly 5 minutes, stirring once or twice, to begin softening. Next, push the potatoes to the perimeter. Add the ground beef and onion to the center. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking the beef into crumbles until no pink remains and onions are translucent. Now, stir everything together and add the garlic and all dried spices (paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper). Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Incorporate the zucchini, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir, cover tightly with the lid, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover, increase heat slightly, and cook for 2-3 final minutes to thicken the sauce. Turn off the heat, top with cheese if desired, and garnish with parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet dish is versatile. For a low-carb option, serve it directly in a bowl. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. To make it a more substantial meal, spoon it over a bed of cauliflower rice, quinoa, or fluffy white rice. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for bell peppers or large portobello mushrooms, baking until tender. Leftovers taste even better the next day and make an excellent filling for breakfast omelets or a topping for baked potatoes.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a simple one-pan method: sauté sweet potato, then brown beef and onion in the same pan. Add spices, then remaining vegetables and broth. Cover to simmer until potatoes are tender, then uncover to thicken. Finish with cheese and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are excellent substitutes. For turkey or chicken, consider adding an extra 1/4 tsp of paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
My sweet potatoes aren’t getting tender. What should I do?
Ensure your dice is small (1/2-inch cubes) and your skillet is covered during the simmering step. If needed, add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of broth and extend the simmer time by 5 minutes.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes. Use the Sauté function for steps 1-3. Then add all remaining ingredients except cheese and parsley. Pressure cook on High for 5 minutes, quick release, then stir and thicken using Sauté mode if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: First, do not overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef, as this steams the meat instead of creating flavorful browning. Second, do not skip the step of cooking the sweet potatoes for the initial 5 minutes; this jump-starts their cooking. Third, ensure you cover the skillet during the simmering phase; this traps steam crucial for softening the vegetables. Finally, do not add the cheese until the heat is off, allowing it to melt gently without becoming greasy or rubbery.
Conclusion
This one-skillet ground beef and sweet potato hash is the ultimate weeknight solution, combining protein, vegetables, and incredible flavor in a single pan. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a nutritious, family-friendly meal that is easily customizable. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a satisfying dinner that feels gourmet without the effort. Give this recipe a try for a simple, delicious, and balanced meal any night of the week.