Sweet Potato and Ham Skillet: A Delicious One-Pan Meal

Discover a Flavorful One-Pan Meal

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition, this sweet potato and ham skillet recipe is the answer. It’s a wonderful combination of tender, sweet potatoes paired with savory ham, all cooked together in one pan. This meal not only delivers on taste but also offers vibrant colors that make it visually appealing. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for those evenings when you need a fast meal.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner!
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of sweet potatoes and ham creates a delightful contrast that will keep you coming back for more.
Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, making this dish a healthy choice for the family.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.
Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Skillet

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup of diced ham
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley for garnishing (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup of spinach or kale
1 cup of frozen peas
1 teaspoon of chili powder for a kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious sweet potato and ham skillet:

Prepare Ingredients: Begin by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, chopping the onion, and dicing the bell pepper. Set aside.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet and let the sweet potatoes cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender.
Incorporate Ham: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, add the diced ham to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked through, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet potato and ham skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette complements the hearty skillet.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies can provide additional color and nutrients.
Fried or Poached Egg: Top the skillet with an egg for added protein and richness.

Tips for Success

To ensure your sweet potato and ham skillet turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

Cut Size Matters: Try to cut your sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Don’t Rush: Allow the sweet potatoes to cook thoroughly for the best texture. If you find they’re not tender, cover the skillet and let them steam a bit longer.
Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste! Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it a nice kick.

Final Thoughts

This sweet potato and ham skillet is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes: quick, easy, flavorful, and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this one-pan meal will surely impress. Plus, with only one pan to clean, you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time worrying about the dishes. Try this recipe tonight, and make it a regular in your weekly meal rotation!