If you’re looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make meal packed with bold flavors, this Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet is just what you need! Combining sweet potatoes, black beans, and rice, this dish is a perfect balance of heartiness, warmth, and a little bit of spice. Inspired by Authentic Mexican Recipes, it’s a great option for a Healthy Vegetarian Dinner that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or meal-prepping for the week, this Sweet Potato Black Bean skillet has got you covered.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet
This recipe is more than just another Bean and Rice dish—it’s a game changer! Here’s why you’ll love it:
✔ Packed with Plant-Based Protein – Black beans provide a great source of protein and fiber.
✔ Rich in Nutrients – Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
✔ Easy One-Pan Meal – Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
✔ Gluten-Free & Vegan-Friendly – No dairy or meat, but plenty of bold flavors!
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings, swap ingredients, or turn it into a burrito filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Rice Skillet, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (180g) cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup (200g) cooked rice (brown rice or white rice work well)
- 1/2 cup (120g) diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (80g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative
Kitchen Equipment Required
To make this Easy E one-pan meal, you’ll need:
✔ Large Skillet – To cook everything in one pan.
✔ Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping sweet potatoes and onions.
✔ Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure proper ingredient proportions.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring ingredients while cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the potatoes with the seasonings. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to become fork-tender.
Step 4: Stir in the Black Beans, Corn, and Rice
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, add the black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet!
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet
✔ Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly – This helps them cook evenly and prevents some from being undercooked while others are mushy.
✔ Use Leftover Rice – Day-old rice works best, as it absorbs flavors without becoming too sticky.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you love heat!
✔ Don’t Overcook the Beans – Stir them in at the end to keep them from getting too mushy.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to customize your Sweet Potato Black Beans dish? Try these swaps:
🔹 Use Quinoa Instead of Rice – For extra protein and a nuttier flavor.
🔹 Make It a Wrap – Fill tortillas with the mixture and top with salsa for a tasty burrito.
🔹 Add Greens – Stir in spinach or kale at the end for an extra nutrient boost.
🔹 Boost the Protein – Add grilled tofu or a fried egg on top for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions: What to Eat with Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet
This Healthy Vegetarian Dinner is filling on its own, but you can also serve it with:
🥑 Fresh Guacamole – A creamy contrast to the bold spices.
🥗 Mexican Slaw – A crunchy, tangy cabbage slaw complements the dish well.
🌮 Corn Tortillas – Scoop up the skillet mixture with warm tortillas.
🌶 Salsa or Hot Sauce – For an extra kick of flavor.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have extra Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet, here’s how to keep it fresh:
Refrigerator:
📦 Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
❄ Transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
🔥 Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I make this with white rice?
Yes! White rice works well, but brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.
2. How do I add more protein to this dish?
You can add tofu, chickpeas, or a fried egg for extra protein.
3. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes work best, as canned ones can become too mushy.
4. Is this dish spicy?
The recipe has mild spice, but you can increase the heat by adding more chili powder or jalapeños.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything ahead and store it in the fridge. It reheats well for meal prep.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet is a must-try for anyone looking for a Healthy Vegetarian Dinner that’s easy, flavorful, and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, using it as a burrito filling, or pairing it with your favorite toppings, this meal is guaranteed to be a hit! Try it out and let us know what you think. Share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more Easy E and Authentic Mexican Recipes!
PrintSouthwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet : A Flavorful Dinner
If you’re looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make meal packed with bold flavors, this Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet is just what you need!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (180g) cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup (200g) cooked rice (brown rice or white rice work well)
- 1/2 cup (120g) diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (80g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative
Instructions
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the potatoes with the seasonings. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to become fork-tender.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, add the black beans, corn, and cooked rice. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet!
Notes
✔ Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly – This helps them cook evenly and prevents some from being undercooked while others are mushy.
✔ Use Leftover Rice – Day-old rice works best, as it absorbs flavors without becoming too sticky.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you love heat!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
Keywords: Southwest Sweet Potato