Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash: A One-Pan Powerhouse of Flavor

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash is the kind of recipe that brings bold flavors, vibrant colors, and nourishing ingredients together in one sizzling skillet. It’s a hearty, wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste—and it all comes together with ease. Sweet potatoes offer a naturally sweet and earthy base, while ground beef brings protein and heartiness. With classic Tex-Mex seasonings and a rainbow of vegetables like bell pepper, mushrooms, spinach, and red onion, every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

What sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—and it’s incredibly customizable. Add a fried egg on top for a brunch-worthy plate, or load it with toppings like guacamole, jalapeños, and cilantro for a dinner that feels like a fiesta. Best of all, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Whether you’re looking to meal prep for the week, clean out the fridge, or just make something seriously satisfying in under 30 minutes, this Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash checks all the boxes. It’s gluten-free, dairy-optional, and easily modified for Whole30, paleo, or vegetarian diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Simplicity – Everything cooks in one skillet for easy prep and cleanup.
2. Bold Tex-Mex Flavor – Taco seasoning infuses the dish with smoky, spicy goodness.
3. Highly Customizable – Make it Whole30, vegetarian, dairy-free, or protein-packed.
4. Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well and reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners.
5. Nutrient-Dense – Loaded with vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Water
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Sweet potato
• Sweet bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange)
• Red onion
• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado, guacamole, jalapeños, fried egg, sour cream, Mexican blend cheese, cotija cheese

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the beef and add black beans or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Whole30/Paleo: Skip the cheese and sour cream, and ensure taco seasoning is compliant.
• Add Heat: Use spicy taco seasoning or add jalapeños directly to the skillet.
• Breakfast Style: Top with a fried or poached egg and serve with hot sauce.
• Kid-Friendly: Reduce spice and offer toppings like shredded cheese and avocado on the side.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir well and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sweet Potato

In the same skillet, heat olive oil or avocado oil. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the diced bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the seasoned ground beef to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with your favorite garnishes and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cut sweet potatoes small and evenly for quick, even cooking.
• Use a large, wide skillet to give ingredients room to brown and avoid steaming.
• Season to taste—if using store-bought taco seasoning, check for salt levels first.
• Prep toppings in advance to make assembly fast and stress-free.
• Add eggs last if you want to keep them runny and fresh over the hot hash.

How to Serve

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash is endlessly versatile. Serve it hot in bowls for a cozy dinner or plate it with a sunny-side-up egg for breakfast. Load it with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of guacamole. Pair it with corn tortillas or wrap it in a burrito for a portable twist. It’s also great alongside a simple green salad or topped with a spoonful of salsa for added zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the hash to cool before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions without toppings. Reheat straight from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until hot. Add a splash of water or oil if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Yes! This dish holds up well in the fridge and is great for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

2. What other proteins can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles all work well.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just be sure to cook off any excess moisture to avoid sogginess.

4. Is this Whole30 compliant?

It can be—just omit the cheese, sour cream, and check your taco seasoning for added sugars.

5. How do I keep the sweet potatoes from getting mushy?

Cut them into small, uniform pieces and don’t overcrowd the pan so they can crisp.

6. What kind of mushrooms are best?

Cremini or white button mushrooms are ideal, but any variety will work.

7. Can I skip the mushrooms or spinach?

Yes, feel free to omit or replace with other veggies like zucchini or kale.

8. How spicy is this recipe?

Mild to moderate—adjust the taco seasoning and toppings to control the heat level.

9. Can I serve this with tortillas?

Absolutely! It’s delicious in tacos, burritos, or as a taco bowl.

10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

A quick skillet reheat gives the best texture, but microwaving works fine too.

Conclusion

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash is a satisfying, nutritious, and flavor-packed recipe that fits almost any meal of the day. From its vibrant veggies and savory beef to its zesty toppings, this one-pan dish makes healthy eating both exciting and convenient. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this hash is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on its hearty, spicy charm.

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