Name: Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwest
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; 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

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 9 reviews

The Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet is the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed! This colorful vegetarian skillet is bursting with earthy sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, tender brown rice, and a comforting blend of southwest spices. Melded together with a touch of melty cheese and a squeeze of fresh lime, every bite is bright, bold, and supremely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping lunches, or looking to join the one-skillet dinner club, this Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet brings nourishing flavor, vibrant color, and just the right hint of spice to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is. Every component delivers on flavor, texture, or eye-catching color, making this dish as fun to serve as it is to eat. Here’s what you’ll need to craft your own Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet masterpiece:

Olive Oil: A splash to start the sauté, giving everything a rich, savory base.
Sweet Potatoes: Bring sweetness and a soft, creamy bite—make sure to dice them evenly for perfect cooking.
Chili Powder: Adds that iconic Southwest warmth and just the right amount of heat.
Ground Cumin: Provides earthy depth and rounds out the spice blend.
Dried Oregano: Elevates the dish with a herbal, slightly citrusy note.
Smoked Paprika: Infuses a gentle smoky undertone—don’t skip it for true Southwest flavor.
Garlic Powder: Offers a mellow garlic kick quickly and evenly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
Diced Green Chiles: Bring a mild heat and tangy character, key to that signature Southwest vibe.
Salsa (or Salsa Verde): The secret sauce! Adds moisture, a zesty finish, and ties all the flavors together.
Cooked Brown Rice: The hearty, wholesome grain foundation that holds everything beautifully.
Black Beans: Protein-rich, meaty, and satisfyingly filling—be sure to drain and rinse!
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh herbal pop and a splash of green for finishing brightness.
Lime Juice: Just a squeeze brings all the flavors to life right before serving.
Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack): Melts deliciously on top, making the whole skillet irresistibly gooey.

How to Make Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Sweet Potatoes

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and sauté for about 8 minutes. The sweet potatoes will begin to caramelize and soften, but for best results, keep the pieces about the same size so they cook evenly. Add a splash of water and cover to steam the sweet potatoes until just fork-tender, about 4 more minutes.

Step 2: Layer in the Goodness

Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, toss in the green chiles, black beans, cooked brown rice, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salsa (or salsa verde), freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, plus a bit more salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir so all those bold, zesty flavors meld together right in your skillet. Watch as it transforms into a vibrant, fragrant medley!

Step 3: The Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle your shredded cheese over the top of the hot mixture, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully, giving you a gooey, irresistible topping. By now, your entire kitchen will smell absolutely amazing and your Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet will be ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can truly take your skillet from “delicious” to “Instagram-worthy.” Try adding extra cilantro, creamy slices of avocado, and a drizzle of plain Greek yogurt or a dollop of sour cream for a cool, tangy contrast. For a little crunch, a handful of crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of pepitas makes each serving pop.

Side Dishes

This skillet is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your table, serve it with a simple green salad, warm corn tortillas, or a side of sautéed greens. If you love color and crunch, a tangy slaw or a platter of sliced fresh veggies will add a fresh bite and balance the savory warmth of the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to switch things up? Spoon the skillet mixture into halved bell peppers, bake until tender, and finish with cheese for a stunning twist. Or stuff it into tortillas for perfectly portable burritos. You can also pile it high onto nachos and bake until bubbling—that takes game night to a whole new level!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet keeps beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, so it’s a delicious grab-and-go lunch option for busy weekdays.

Freezing

This skillet meal is also freezer-friendly! Once cooled, portion into freezer-safe containers. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months—just skip the fresh garnishes until you’re ready to serve. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave portions in a microwave-safe dish until hot, stirring occasionally for even heat. Or warm it in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry. Garnish after reheating for the freshest taste!

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! White rice works just as well in the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet. Just be aware that it has a softer texture and cooks a little faster, so adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, it can be! Simply use your favorite plant-based cheese or skip the cheese altogether. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan, so you can serve the skillet as a hearty, plant-forward meal.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Bell peppers, corn, spinach, or even zucchini all taste amazing and bring their own twist to the classic Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild to moderate, thanks to the green chiles and chili powder. If you love heat, bump up the chili powder, use a spicier salsa, or top with jalapenos. If you’re serving spice-sensitive eaters, use mild chiles and salsa.

What kind of salsa should I use?

Either classic tomato-based salsa or salsa verde (green salsa) works beautifully. Salsa verde adds a citrusy tang, while red salsa brings rich tomato flavor—pick your favorite or experiment with both in the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a nourishing dinner that’s easy, packs a punch of flavor, and pleases a crowd, the Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet is a must-try. Whether you scoop it straight from the pan or dress it up for a fun night in, you’ll come back to this skillet again and again. Grab your ingredients, turn up the tunes, and treat yourself to this Southwest kitchen favorite tonight!

Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean and Rice Skillet Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need