There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet meal that combines warmth, spice, and cheesy goodness in just one pan.
This Sweet Potato Taco Skillet is that kind of meal—packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor, nourishing sweet potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese.
It’s my go-to for those nights when I crave something hearty but don’t want a pile of dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All-in-one skillet – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Perfect balance – Sweet potatoes meet savory beef and smoky chili.
Faster than takeout – Ready in about 30 minutes.
Customizable toppings – Add avocado, sour cream, or whatever you love.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Lean ground beef – Adds protein and richness without excess grease.
Sweet potatoes – Naturally sweet, hearty, and filling.
Chili powder & cumin – Build that signature taco flavor.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes – Bring in smoky depth and acidity.
Diced green chiles – Mild heat and Southwestern tang.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into creamy, cheesy goodness.
Onion & garlic – Aromatic base to deepen the flavor.
Cilantro (optional) – Bright, herbal finish to lift the dish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut sweet potatoes evenly – Small dice helps them cook quickly and evenly.
Use lean beef – Less fat, less grease to drain.
Layer seasoning – Adding spices at multiple stages builds depth.
Cover the skillet – Helps the sweet potatoes steam and soften faster.
Let cheese melt off-heat – A quick cover after cooking gets that perfect gooey topping.
How to Make Sweet Potato Taco Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
Add ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef as it cooks.
Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Finish the Beef
When the beef is nearly cooked, stir in the grated garlic.
Cook for 1 more minute, then transfer mixture to a plate.
Wipe out the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Add sweet potatoes, fire roasted tomatoes, green chiles, water, more chili powder and cumin to the skillet.
Season with salt and pepper. Stir and cover with a lid.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft.
Step 5: Combine and Melt Cheese
Return the beef mixture to the skillet and stir to combine.
Top with shredded cheddar and cover briefly until cheese melts.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro if using. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
Warm tortillas or tortilla chips
Avocado slices or guacamole
Mexican rice or cauliflower rice
Simple cabbage slaw with lime
A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey – For a lighter option.
Add black beans or corn – For extra texture and fiber.
Swap cheddar – Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Make it spicy – Add hot sauce or jalapeños.
Low-carb version – Sub diced zucchini for sweet potato.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheat – Use microwave or skillet until heated through.
Freeze – Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Repurpose – Use as taco filling, burrito bowls, or nacho topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Just reduce the cook time slightly and season well.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
They should be fork-tender and easily pierced without resistance.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mild, but you can control the heat by adjusting chili powder or green chiles.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes, cook the beef and chop veggies in advance for faster assembly.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar melts beautifully, but any melty cheese like jack or Colby works.
Do I need fire roasted tomatoes?
They add smoky flavor, but regular diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
How do I freeze this?
Cool fully, portion into containers, and freeze. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Taco Skillet has become a weeknight regular in my kitchen. It’s bold, satisfying, and endlessly flexible—everything I want from a one-pan meal.
Whether I’m meal prepping or just need something fast and cozy, this recipe always comes through with flavor and ease.
Sweet Potato Taco Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and onion, breaking up the beef as it browns.
- Add 3 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until beef is almost done, then stir in garlic for 1 minute.
- Transfer to a plate and wipe the skillet.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/sweet-potato-taco-skillet/
Notes
- Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for black beans or lentils.
- Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra kick.
- Great for meal prep—just reheat and serve!
