One Pan Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet (Healthy, High Protein & Easy Weeknight Dinner)
If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen at 5:30 PM wondering what to cook that’s healthy, filling, and doesn’t destroy every dish you own — this one pan ground beef sweet potato skillet healthy recipe is about to become your new favorite.
I originally created this recipe during one of those chaotic weeks when I needed easy weeknight meals that were nourishing but didn’t take forever. I wanted something packed with veggies, high in protein, naturally low calorie, and made with real ingredients for clean eating. After testing it several times (and tweaking the seasoning until it was just right), this skillet became a staple in my kitchen.
It’s bold, savory, slightly sweet from the potatoes, and satisfying enough to qualify as a true high protein dinner — yet light enough that you don’t feel weighed down afterward. Let’s dive in.
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Why You’ll Love This One Pan Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Healthy Recipe
- ✔ High in protein to keep you full
- ✔ Packed with colorful veggies
- ✔ Naturally low calorie when made with lean beef
- ✔ Perfect for meal prep
- ✔ Ready in about 35 minutes
- ✔ Only one pan to clean
This is the kind of meal that proves clean eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ideal for busy families looking for quick meals that still feel homemade.
Ingredients (Exact US Measurements)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) lean ground beef (93% lean)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 lb total), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium beef broth or water
Optional Toppings
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh lime wedges
Why This Is a High Protein Dinner That Works
Using 93% lean ground beef keeps this skillet flavorful yet relatively low calorie. One serving (about 1¼ cups) contains approximately:
- ~28g protein
- ~320–350 calories
- High fiber from sweet potatoes and veggies
It’s balanced, satisfying, and ideal for anyone focusing on clean eating or muscle-supporting meals.
How to Make One Pan Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet Healthy
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add ¼ cup beef broth, cover, and cook another 5 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push sweet potatoes to one side of the pan. Add ground beef to the empty side and cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Aromatics & Veggies
Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Season & Finish
Stir in paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Fold in spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Remove from heat and garnish as desired.
Kitchen Tools That Make This Recipe Even Easier
When I was testing this recipe repeatedly, I realized having the right tools truly makes these easy weeknight meals feel effortless. Here are my favorites:
1. Large Nonstick Deep Skillet (12-Inch) - SENSARTE Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet
A deep, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and enough space to stir without overcrowding.
Why I love it: Prevents sticking and cooks sweet potatoes evenly.
If you want your one pan meals to cook perfectly every time, check out this highly-rated 12-inch nonstick skillet on Amazon.
2. Sharp 8-Inch Chef’s Knife - ZWILLING Four Star 8-inch Razor-Sharp German Chef's Knife
Dicing sweet potatoes is much easier with a quality chef’s knife.
Why I love it: Makes prep faster and safer.
Upgrade your prep game with a professional chef’s knife available on Amazon.
3. Silicone Spatula Set
Perfect for breaking up ground beef without scratching your pan.
Why I love it: Heat-resistant and easy to clean.
Grab a durable silicone spatula set to make clean eating cooking stress-free.
4. Glass Meal Prep Containers
Ideal for storing leftovers safely.
Why I love it: Microwave-safe and portion-controlled.
Stay organized with stackable glass meal prep containers from Amazon.
5. Vegetable Chopper - Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper
Speeds up chopping onions and peppers.
Why I love it: Cuts prep time in half.
Save time on busy nights with this bestselling veggie chopper on Amazon.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Let beef brown before stirring for better flavor.
- Season gradually and taste as you go.
Variations to Keep It Exciting
Tex-Mex Version
Add ½ cup black beans and ½ cup corn. Top with salsa.
Mediterranean Twist
Swap cumin for Italian seasoning and add ¼ cup feta cheese.
Extra High Protein Dinner Boost
Stir in ½ cup cottage cheese or top with a fried egg.
Lower Carb Option
Replace half the sweet potatoes with diced zucchini.
Meal Prep & Storage
Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with 1 tablespoon water to prevent drying out.
This makes excellent quick meals for lunch, especially if you’re trying to stick to clean eating during the week.
What to Serve With It
- Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Cauliflower rice for a lower calorie plate
- Whole grain tortillas for wraps
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes! Use 93% lean ground turkey for a similar low calorie result.
Is this freezer friendly?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months in airtight containers.
Is this good for weight loss?
Absolutely. It’s balanced, portion-controlled, and high in protein.
Final Thoughts
This one pan ground beef sweet potato skillet healthy recipe truly checks every box: it’s a high protein dinner, packed with veggies, ideal for clean eating, naturally low calorie, and perfect for easy weeknight meals.
Writing this recipe reminded me that healthy food doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes the best quick meals are the simplest ones made with whole ingredients and one good pan.
Try it this week and let it become your new go-to skillet dinner!
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