Name: Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 red bell pepper; 1 red onion; 2 cloves garlic; 1 can (15 oz) black beans; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional); Sliced jalapeños (optional)

This Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet is a celebration of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you need a hearty weeknight dinner, a meal-prep hero, or a cozy dish to curl up with, this one-skillet wonder has you covered. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with smoky spices, tender black beans, and fluffy rice—all pulled together with melty cheese and a squeeze of lime.

What makes this dish even more delightful is that it requires minimal cleanup. Everything cooks in a single skillet, making it a breeze to whip up on busy evenings. Plus, it’s vegetarian and easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets without compromising any of its vibrant flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss

It’s hard not to fall for a recipe that checks all the boxes: nutritious, comforting, satisfying, and easy to make. This skillet meal delivers protein, fiber, and vitamins all in one colorful dish. The flavor is bold with a kick of spice and the textures range from creamy to crisp with every bite.

Can I Use Canned Black Beans or Fresh?

Canned black beans work perfectly for this recipe and save you a ton of time. Just rinse them well to remove excess sodium. However, if you have the time and prefer using freshly cooked beans, feel free to swap them in. Either option will yield a delicious result.

Ingredients for the Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss

When it comes to this skillet recipe, every ingredient has a role to play in creating the depth of flavor. Here’s what you need:

Sweet Potatoes bring a natural sweetness and hearty bite that forms the foundation of the dish.

Cooked Rice soaks up all the spices and flavors. Brown, white, or even cauliflower rice can work depending on your preference.

Black Beans provide protein, texture, and an earthy flavor that complements the potatoes.

Bell Peppers add vibrant color and crunch, especially when lightly charred.

Red Onion gives a zesty base that mellows into sweetness as it sautés.

Garlic adds that aromatic punch that rounds out the entire dish.

Smoked Paprika and Cumin are the key to that deep Southwestern warmth.

Chili Powder lends a gentle heat to keep things interesting.

Shredded Cheese melts beautifully across the top, pulling everything together.

Fresh Lime Juice brightens the whole skillet and balances the richness.

Olive Oil is used to roast and sauté, infusing everything with a golden finish.

Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss (1)

How To Make the Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until caramelized and fork-tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped red onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and slightly charred. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet along with the cooked rice and black beans. Stir everything together and season to taste. Let it all cook together for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese on top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños if you like extra heat. Serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it on its own as a complete meal or use it as a filling for burritos, taco bowls, or even lettuce wraps. It feeds about 4 to 5 people, making it a great choice for small families or leftovers.

To store, let the skillet cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back moisture. It also freezes well for up to a month.

What to Serve With Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss?

Guacamole or Avocado Slices

The creaminess of avocado balances the spices and adds extra richness.

Tortilla Chips

Serve on the side or crush some over the top for a crunchy finish.

Cornbread

A slice of moist cornbread pairs beautifully with the warmth of the skillet.

Salsa Verde

A spoonful adds a tangy kick and enhances the Southwestern vibe.

Fried Plantains

For a sweet and savory combo, crispy plantains are a fun match.

Grilled Chicken

If you want a protein boost, grilled or shredded chicken makes this meal even heartier.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add some zing and heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Cabbage Slaw

Cool and crunchy slaw brings freshness and crunch on the side.

Want More Skillet Ideas with a Twist?

If this veggie-packed one-pan dish hit the spot, don’t miss these other skillet favorites:

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a wholesome, comfort-food feel.
Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake with savory flair.
Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken for a gooey and satisfying dinner.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving cheesy indulgence.
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet for a low-fuss, high-flavor weeknight winner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest vegetarian board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up even more or toss in extra veggies? Did you go vegan with dairy-free cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals.

Explore beautifully curated wholesome dinner ideas and healthy comfort foods on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover new go-tos for any night of the week!

Conclusion

This Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean and Rice Skillet Bliss is everything a weeknight dinner should be—simple, nutritious, and full of flavor. With a short ingredient list and one-skillet convenience, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Try it once and you’ll understand the bliss part of the name.