Southwest Sweet Potato & Black Bean Skillet – Healthy & Easy

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meal? This Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, and Rice Skillet is the perfect healthy vegetarian dinner packed with bold spices, wholesome ingredients, and vibrant colors. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican recipes, a protein-packed bean and rice dish, or a quick one-pan meal, this recipe has you covered.

It’s ideal for meal prep, budget-friendly, and made in just 30 minutes! Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. Serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a filling for burritos or tacos.

Let’s get started on this delicious sweet potato black bean and rice skillet recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Everything cooks in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
• Packed with plant-based protein – Black beans and rice provide a complete protein source.
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free – Great for special diets.
• Full of bold, southwest flavors – Smoky, spicy, and satisfying.
• Customizable – Add extra veggies, protein, or spice to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, and Rice Skillet

For the Skillet:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced small
• ½ small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (150g) cooked black beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup (180g) cooked rice (brown or white)
• 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• ½ cup (125ml) vegetable broth
• ½ cup (75g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Toppings (Optional):

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small avocado, sliced
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sweet Potatoes

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices

1. Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Beans, Rice, and Tomatoes

1. Pour in the black beans, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and corn.
2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cover and Cook

1. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
2. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice.
2. Add shredded cheese if desired, and serve warm.

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Tips for the Best Southwest Sweet Potato Skillet

• Dice the sweet potatoes small – Smaller pieces cook faster and evenly.
• Use pre-cooked rice – This makes the recipe quicker and prevents excess moisture.
• Want extra spice? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• For extra protein – Stir in tofu, lentils, or shredded chicken.
• Make it creamy – Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Make it Vegan:

• Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

Authentic Mexican Recipe Version:

• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
• Add chopped poblano or bell peppers.

Cold Protein Pasta Salad Alternative:

• Swap rice for cooked pasta to turn this into a healthy pasta salad.

Add More Greens:

• Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the sweet potatoes – They should be tender but not mushy.
• Not using enough seasoning – Spices bring out the best flavors in this dish.
• Skipping the lime juice – It adds acidity and balances the flavors.

How to Store and Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What to Serve With Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, and Rice Skillet

• Tortilla chips – Scoop up the mixture for a fun way to eat it.
• Cornbread – Adds a nice, slightly sweet contrast.
• Fried plantains – A delicious, slightly sweet side.
• Avocado toast – A great pairing for a filling meal.

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FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes for texture, but canned can work if drained well.

What’s the best type of rice for this dish?

Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, while white rice makes the dish fluffier.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook everything on low for 4-5 hours, adding the rice during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, and Rice Skillet is a perfect blend of bold flavors, satisfying textures, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re searching for authentic Mexican recipes, a healthy vegetarian dinner, or an easy one-pan meal, this dish is guaranteed to be a winner.

Try this recipe today and let us know how you liked it! Don’t forget to share your favorite sweet potato black beans and rice skillet ideas in the comments. Happy cooking!

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