One-Pan Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash

On busy evenings when the family needs a nourishing meal fast, Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash steps in as a reliable favorite. This one-pan wonder layers tender diced sweet potatoes with seasoned ground beef and colorful peppers, all infused with smoky cumin and chili for that authentic Southwest kick. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant, ready in under an hour.

What draws people to this recipe is its flexibility for any time of day, from breakfast topped with eggs to a quick dinner alongside tortillas. It reheats beautifully, holding onto its flavors for easy meal prep during the week. Busy moms especially value how it packs nutrition into every forkful without extra hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Ease: Cooks entirely in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup for hectic weeknights.
• Bursting Flavors: Tex-Mex spices like cumin and chili create a smoky, savory profile that’s mildly spicy and irresistible.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Sweet potatoes and black beans deliver fiber and vitamins in a hearty, satisfying way.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to all ages with customizable heat and optional toppings like eggs or cheese.
• Quick and Versatile: Done in 45 minutes, it works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner routines.

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients

The ingredients in Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash blend sweet earthiness from the potatoes with savory beef and zesty peppers for a harmonious Tex-Mex vibe. Opting for fresh produce and vibrant spices ensures deeper, more authentic flavors that make the dish shine.

• Lean ground beef: Delivers rich protein base that soaks up the bold spices.
• Sweet potatoes: Provide natural sweetness and soft, hearty texture as the foundation.
• Onion: Adds savory depth and subtle sharpness to the overall mix.
• Bell pepper: Contributes bright color and crisp-tender bite for freshness.
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic warmth that ties the flavors together.
• Jalapeño: Optional element for adjustable heat and a spicy edge.
• Black beans: Bring earthy creaminess and added fiber for balance.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Offer juicy tanginess and mild spice to moisten the hash.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing to enhance browning and prevent sticking.
• Chili powder: Key spice for warm, Tex-Mex essence.
• Cumin: Adds nutty, smoky undertones that define the cuisine.
• Smoked paprika: Boosts depth with a subtle charred note.
• Oregano: Provides herbal freshness to round out the seasonings.
• Salt and black pepper: Balance all elements for well-seasoned taste.
• Fresh cilantro: Fresh, citrusy garnish that brightens each serving.
• Lime: Zesty squeeze for a tangy finish.
• Shredded cheese: Optional melty topping for creamy richness.
• Fried or poached eggs: Optional addition for extra protein and sunny contrast.

Note: The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the sweet potatoes into small, uniform cubes, chop the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño if using, and mince the garlic. Gather the spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika nearby. This prep keeps the cooking smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high with a drizzle of olive oil, then add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for one more minute to release the aromas. Transfer the seasoned beef to a plate and set it aside to build layers of flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add a bit more oil to the same skillet if needed, then toss in the diced sweet potatoes and stir occasionally for 8-10 minutes until they soften and get lightly browned. This step creates a tender base for the one-pan recipe. Keep the heat medium-high for even cooking.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet with the sweet potatoes, then sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables turn tender-crisp. Stir in the minced garlic next and cook for one additional minute until it becomes fragrant. These fresh elements add color and crunch to the ground beef hash.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, then mix in the rinsed black beans and canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld and heat through evenly. The result is a cohesive sweet potato skillet full of Tex-Mex dinner appeal.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat, then top with chopped fresh cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges. For optional richness, add shredded cheese or a fried or poached egg. This final touch makes the dish versatile for any meal.

Pro Tips for Success

• Uniform Dicing: Cut sweet potatoes into even small cubes so they cook uniformly and turn tender without raw spots.
• Drain Excess Fat: Remove fat from browned beef to keep the hash lighter and prevent greasiness.
• Optional Heat: Include jalapeño for a spicy kick or skip it to control the mild flavor level.
• Flavor Bloom: Stir spices into beef for one minute to release their full aromatic potential.
• Layer Cooking: Reuse the skillet for veggies after beef to build deeper, melded tastes.

How to Serve Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash

Garnishes

I always finish Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro to add a bright, herby contrast. A squeeze of lime wedges brings zingy freshness that cuts the richness, and if I’m feeling indulgent, I melt shredded cheddar on top for a creamy touch.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, I pair the hash with warm corn tortillas that scoop up the tender veggies and beef effortlessly. A side of sliced avocado offers cool creaminess against the spices, or keep it light with a mixed greens salad dressed simply in lime vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

I like serving the hash straight from the skillet for a casual family vibe, letting everyone add their own lime or cilantro. For brunch, top portions with poached eggs in individual bowls to create a sunny, golden yolk that mingles with the smoky flavors. It turns a simple dinner into something special without extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I portion any leftover Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash into airtight containers right after cooling, then pop them in the fridge where they stay fresh for a few days. This setup makes grabbing a quick lunch straightforward without losing the bold flavors.

Freezing

To freeze, I let the hash cool fully before transferring it to freezer-safe bags, pressing out air to avoid ice crystals, and it holds up well for a couple of months. When ready, I thaw it overnight in the fridge for safe, even reheating.

Reheating

I reheat portions in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the moisture, stirring until hot throughout. In the microwave, I cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent drying and heat in short intervals. Both methods keep the textures tender and satisfying.

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