Crispy Sweet Potato & Ground Beef Skillet

This one-pan meal is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining the sweetness of potatoes with savory ground beef. This direct pan-fry method is the most straightforward way to cook the potatoes entirely in the skillet.

Ingredients

• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 medium)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil), divided
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste), divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

• • Peel the sweet potatoes and dice them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Keeping the size consistent is important for even cooking. Pat the diced potatoes dry with a paper towel.

1. Pan-Fry the Potatoes:
   • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron is excellent) over medium heat (level 3-4).
   • Carefully add the 4 cups diced sweet potatoes to the skillet in a single layer.
   • Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly and don't burn. The potatoes are done when they are tender on the inside and have a browned, crispy exterior.
   • Remove the crispy potatoes from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
   • In the same skillet (add a little more oil if it's too dry), add the 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion and cook over medium heat (level 3) for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
   • Add the 1 lb ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up the meat and cook until it is fully browned, about 6-8 minutes.
   • Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Season and Combine:
   • Stir in the 2 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for one more minute until the garlic is fragrant.
   • Return the crispy sweet potatoes to the skillet with the seasoned ground beef. Gently stir to combine everything and allow the potatoes to heat through for a minute or two.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Serve the skillet meal hot, directly from the pan.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.