Hearty Lean Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
September 7, 2025
Hearty Lean Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet
There’s something truly comforting about a meal that comes together in just one pan. This hearty skillet is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers the kind of wholesome satisfaction that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Featuring lean ground beef, tender sweet potatoes, and nutrient-rich kale, this dish is both filling and balanced. The subtle smokiness from paprika and a hint of cumin give it a warm depth of flavor, while a squeeze of lemon adds brightness at the end.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s nourishing, flavorful, and quick to clean up, this **Hearty Lean Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet** deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 5 cups packed kale, tough stems removed, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add the chopped kale, stirring it in batches if necessary, until it wilts down into the mixture. Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy this healthy, balanced, and delicious meal.
Tips & Substitutions
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles for a meatless version.
- Change up the greens: Spinach or Swiss chard can be used in place of kale if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Boost the flavor: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat or top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
Calories: 380 per serving
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 38g
Related Recipe
See the original recipe: "Hearty Lean Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet"This one-pan wonder brings together bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation. Give it a try, share it with your family, and don’t forget to pass the recipe along to friends who could use a healthy and satisfying dinner idea!