Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one pan, the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet is your new go-to recipe! This satisfying vegetarian meal mixes tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, zesty green chiles, and wholesome brown rice with a sprinkle of bold southwestern spices. Everything simmers together until bubbly, with gooey cheese melted on top. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s quick enough for busy weeknights and tasty enough to serve to friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this skillet dish is in its colorful, nourishing ingredients that harmonize perfectly. Each component adds something special, whether it’s flavor, texture, or visual appeal. Here’s the lineup you’ll want to have nearby:
- Olive oil: For sautéing and coaxing out all the deep flavors from the veggies.
- Sweet potato: The star of the show, adding sweetness and a lovely orange color.
- Chili powder: Brings smoky heat and that classic Southwest flair.
- Ground cumin: Deepens the earthiness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Dried oregano: Adds a subtle herby note that brightens the dish.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness that complements the other spices.
- Garlic powder: For an easy touch of garlicky warmth without extra peeling or chopping.
- Salt and pepper: Lets you adjust and enhance all the other flavors to your liking.
- Diced green chiles: They bring a mild kick and a burst of tangy flavor.
- Salsa or salsa verde: Adds moisture, acidity, and extra Southwest taste—choose your favorite for a personalized touch.
- Cooked brown rice: The hearty base that ties everything together while adding healthful fiber.
- Black beans: An essential source of protein and creamy texture—plus that gorgeous color contrast.
- Cilantro: For fresh, herby brightness at the end.
- Lime juice: For zippy acidity that wakes up all the flavors.
- Shredded cheese: Melts into gooey perfection for that irresistible finishing touch—choose your favorite kind!
How to Make Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Sweet Potatoes
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Toss in those diced sweet potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about eight minutes, stirring now and then, so they get golden and start to soften. Then, add a splash of water, pop on the lid, and let them steam for a few more minutes until fork-tender. This step ensures the sweet potatoes are creamy and perfectly cooked without drying out.
Step 2: Stir in the Flavors
Add the green chiles, drained black beans, cooked brown rice, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salsa, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice right to the skillet. Don’t forget a little more salt and pepper if you love bold flavors! Stir it all together so every bite will be loaded with spicy, tangy, herby goodness. The mixture will start to look gorgeous and smell amazing at this point.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top. Cover with a lid and let things cook for three to four minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey. That cheesy layer ties everything together for the ultimate finish. Serve the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet hot from the pan and dig in!
How to Serve Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet
Garnishes
Garnishing this skillet is almost as fun as eating it! Brighten things up with more fresh cilantro, creamy avocado slices, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for contrast. A few sliced jalapeños add extra heat if you’re feeling bold, and a sprinkle of green onions gives a crisp pop of color.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, warm tortillas, or tortilla chips for scooping will really round out the meal. Roasted corn, a simple tomato salad, or a fresh fruit platter also make excellent companions, balancing the savory depth of the skillet with light, refreshing flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
The Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet is as versatile as it is tasty! Spoon it into roasted bell pepper halves or serve in baked tortilla bowls for something festive. Use the filling to stuff burritos or make killer quesadillas, or simply serve in individual mini skillets for an impressive presentation at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. It keeps well, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
This skillet freezes beautifully, so make a double batch if you’d like! Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low, adding a splash of water or extra salsa to loosen things up if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating. Don’t forget fresh garnishes to revive that just-cooked vibe!
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Absolutely! White rice works just as well, or even quinoa for a protein boost—just use what you have on hand, and adjust cooking time as needed if you’re making the grains fresh.
What if I don’t have green chiles?
No worries! Chopped bell pepper, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce can step in for green chiles. The goal is to add a bit of zest and color, so feel free to get creative with what’s in your pantry.
Is this Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet vegan?
The base is naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based cheese or simply skip the cheese topping! Everything else is wonderfully plant-based, so it’s an easy switch for vegan eaters.
Can I add meat if I want?
Definitely! Shredded cooked chicken or ground turkey would both be delicious stirred in with the rice and beans. This recipe flexes to fit all sorts of tastes, so make it your own.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level really depends on your salsa and green chiles. As written, it’s mild to medium—just right for most families. Bump up the chili powder or add hot salsa for extra spice, or scale back for little ones.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome, and downright flavorful meal, I can’t recommend the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet enough. It’s colorful, filling, and sure to put a smile on everyone’s face at your table—give it a try and make it your new weeknight favorite!
Print
Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet is a flavorful and wholesome one-pan dish that combines sweet potatoes, black beans, rice, and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups peeled and diced sweet potato
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 ounces diced green chiles
- 1/2 cup salsa or salsa verde
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 15 ounce can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Juice of a lime
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, colby jack, or monterey jack cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté sweet potatoes with salt and pepper for about 8 minutes until fork-tender.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in green chiles, black beans, rice, spices, salsa, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted. Serve topped with additional cilantro, avocado, and Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Notes
- This dish can be customized with additional toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and paprika.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Southwest, Sweet Potato, Black Bean, Rice, Skillet, One-Pan, Vegetarian
