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Black Bean Sweet Potato Taco Skillet Recipe

5 from 63 reviews

This Black Bean Sweet Potato Taco Skillet is a vibrant, hearty one-pan meal that combines tender sweet potatoes, black beans, and savory Mexican spices, topped with crispy tortilla chips and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s loaded with flavor and textures that satisfy both vegetarians and taco lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large sweet potato (about 12 oz.), peeled, cut into 1/2″ cubes
  • 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
  • 2 tbsp. neutral oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
  • 2 tsp. chili powder
  • 2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 3/4 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1 (14.5-oz.) can black beans, drained, rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-oz.) can diced tomatoes
  • 3 oz. tortilla chips, partially broken (about 3 c.)
  • 1 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend (about 4 oz.), divided
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for serving
  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: In a large, wide skillet, cover the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with cold water and season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and wipe out the pan.
  2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the neutral oil. Add the finely chopped onion and red bell pepper along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 7 to 9 minutes. Add chili powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin, cooking while stirring until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
  3. Combine Main Ingredients and Simmer: Add the cooked sweet potatoes back into the skillet along with the black beans, diced tomatoes, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of water. Toss everything to combine well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  4. Add Chips and Cheese: Preheat the broiler. Add the tortilla chips and 1/4 cup of shredded Mexican cheese to the skillet and gently toss to combine, being careful not to break the chips completely. Then sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of cheese evenly on top.
  5. Broil to Melt Cheese: Place the skillet under the broiler, watching closely. Broil until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and top with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with sour cream on the side for a creamy contrast.

Notes

  • You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans if preferred.
  • For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding spices.
  • If you don’t have a broiler-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding chips and cheese.
  • To keep it vegan, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative and skip the sour cream or use vegan sour cream.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Keywords: Black bean, Sweet potato, Taco skillet, Mexican, Vegetarian, One-pan meal