Name: Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons chili powder (mild blend); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt to taste (about 2 teaspoons); Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided; 1 1/2 pounds top sirloin steak, cut into 1 inch cubes; 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 1 lime, juiced

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If you are craving a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes, the Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brilliantly balances tender, spice-kissed steak cubes with naturally sweet and slightly crispy sweet potatoes, all tossed with vibrant red bell peppers and fresh green onions. The smoky, mildly spicy seasoning blend elevates every bite, while a splash of lime juice brightens it up, making it irresistibly delicious and satisfying. It’s comfort food with a fresh twist, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a nourishing, colorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a black cast iron pan filled with cooked beef chunks and orange sweet potato cubes mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper and green onions, all seasoned and garnished with chopped cilantro. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, with squeezed lime halves and sprigs of cilantro nearby, and a gray cloth partially visible on the right side. The beef pieces have a browned exterior, and the vegetables add bright warm colors, making the dish look hearty and fresh. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is essential for pulling off this delightful skillet dish. Each component is carefully chosen to add its own unique flavor, texture, and color — from the rich umami of the steak to the sweet earthiness of the potatoes, to the bright crunch of fresh veggies.

Chili powder (2 teaspoons): A mild blend that adds a gentle heat and warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Provides a warm, nutty aroma that complements the steak perfectly.
Garlic powder (3/4 teaspoon): Adds a savory depth and slight pungency.
Smoked paprika (3/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Salt (about 2 teaspoons): Essential for bringing out all the flavors; feel free to adjust according to taste.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a sharp, spicy undertone that balances the sweetness.
Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): Chosen for its high smoke point and mild flavor, perfect for sautéing.
Top sirloin steak (1 1/2 pounds, cubed): Tender yet affordable, it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
Sweet potatoes (1 pound, peeled and cubed): The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spices and steak.
Red bell pepper (1, diced): Adds a crisp texture and vibrant color.
Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Bring freshness and a touch of mild onion flavor.
Chopped cilantro (2 tablespoons): Infuses the dish with a citrusy, herbal brightness.
Lime (1, juiced): The final squeeze adds a lively acidity that ties everything together.

How to Make Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Spices

Start by blending your chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. This spice mix is the heart of the Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe, giving it that bold, smoky, and slightly spicy character that makes every bite memorable.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon of water, then microwave for 2 minutes. Give them a stir, then microwave for another 1 to 2 minutes until they are soft but not completely cooked through. This step speeds up the cooking process in the skillet and ensures tender yet still slightly crisp potatoes that hold their shape.

Step 3: Season the Sweet Potatoes

Toss the softened sweet potatoes with about a teaspoon of your spice blend so they soak up all those wonderful flavors. This ensures every bite of potato has a punch of seasoning, complementing the savory steak perfectly.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, toss the steak cubes with the remaining spice blend to give them that irresistible coating. Place the steak in the skillet in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes per side, allowing them to develop a nice sear and lock in their juices. Once cooked, remove the steak to a plate to rest.

Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil. Add the red bell pepper, spiced sweet potatoes, and green onions, then sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the bell pepper is crisp-tender. This quick sauté melds the textures and flavors so beautifully, giving a slight caramelization that adds depth.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the steak cubes to the skillet, add the chopped cilantro, and gently stir everything together. Turn off the heat and squeeze in the fresh lime juice — this bright finish wakes up the dish, balancing the smoky and sweet tones perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then garnish with extra green onions and cilantro before serving.

How to Serve Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

A dark round skillet filled with medium-sized browned meat cubes evenly spread across the pan, each piece showing a mix of seared dark brown and lightly cooked pink areas and emitting a light steam, all placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple, fresh garnishes take this skillet to the next level. Thinly sliced green onions and extra chopped cilantro add a burst of vibrant green color and a fresh, herbal aroma that makes the dish feel more lively and polished. A few lime wedges on the side let everyone brighten their plate even more, if they like.

Side Dishes

This skillet is a fantastic all-in-one dish, but if you want a little extra, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of garlic sautéed spinach. For a carb boost, warm some crusty bread or share a bowl of fluffy quinoa or steamed rice alongside to soak up every delicious bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe family-style right in the skillet for everyone to dig into, bringing warmth and casual charm to the table. Alternatively, compose individual plates with a neat mound of the steak and sweet potato mixture, topped with a sprig of cilantro and a lime wedge to make presentation feel effortless but intentional.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, allow leftovers to cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the skillet will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner the next day without any fuss.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to retain moisture and ensure even heating for that fresh-from-the-skillet experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While top sirloin is tender and affordable, you can also use ribeye, flank, or even skirt steak—just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness and fat content.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Definitely! Swap the steak cubes for hearty mushrooms like portobello or cremini, or even firm tofu. Season and cook them the same way to get beautiful flavor and texture.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

You can, but sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances the smoky spices wonderfully. If using regular potatoes, par-cook them similarly and consider adding a touch of honey or maples syrup to complement their earthiness.

How spicy is the dish?

This recipe uses mild chili powder, so it has a gentle warmth rather than heat. You can always adjust by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer a bit more kick.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it relies on fresh ingredients and spices without any wheat-based additives. Just ensure your spices are labeled gluten-free if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

You truly can’t go wrong with this Steak and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together in a cozy, vibrant dish everyone will love. Whether you’re new to cooking steak or just looking for a satisfying one-pan meal, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!