Sweet Potato Kale Skillet

Name: Sweet Potato Kale Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 4 cups kale, chopped; 1 medium onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; Juice of half a lemon

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

I love whipping up quick yet nutritious meals, and this Sweet Potato Kale Skillet has become a staple in my kitchen. The vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it not only delicious but visually appealing too. In just 30 minutes, I can enjoy a wholesome dinner packed with vitamins and flavor. Combining the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of kale creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Join me as I share how to make this delightful dish and why it's perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:41:35.128Z

After experimenting with various veggies, I found that sweet potatoes and kale create a perfect harmony of flavors. Roasting the sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while sautéing the kale complements the dish with a lovely texture. I recommend getting the sweet potatoes nice and crispy for added crunch!

One of my favorite tips is to add a hint of garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. It brightens up the dish and elevates the overall taste, making it feel gourmet without much extra effort. This skillet is quick to prepare and always hits the spot!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying meal
Vibrant colors that make it a feast for the eyes
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The sweet potatoes in this recipe serve as the star ingredient, bringing a natural sweetness and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the earthy kale. When choosing sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. Their vibrant orange color indicates they're packed with beta-carotene, a beneficial antioxidant. I like to use medium-sized potatoes for even cooking; larger ones can take longer to roast, potentially causing the kale to overcook while waiting.

Kale adds a robust flavor and a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. For this skillet dish, I recommend curly kale or Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato) for their tender leaves and ease of cooking. If kale isn’t your favorite green, spinach can be a good substitute, offering a softer texture. Just remember, if using spinach, reduce the cooking time since it wilts much quicker.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Texture

Roasting the sweet potatoes at a high temperature ensures they develop crispy edges while remaining tender inside. Keep an eye on them after the first 15 minutes; shake the pan to promote even cooking and prevent sticking. If they're not crispy enough after 20 minutes, give them a few extra minutes in the oven while monitoring closely for that perfect golden-brown finish.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, the heat level should be medium to allow for a gentle cook and prevent burning. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, which typically takes about 5 minutes. Adding the garlic just before the kale helps to maximize its flavor; burning garlic can impart a bitter taste that overwhelms the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Sweet Potato Kale Skillet:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
4 cups kale, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
Juice of half a lemon

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Sweet Potato Kale Skillet:

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and kale.

Cook until the kale is wilted, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are done, mix them into the skillet with the kale and onion. Squeeze lemon juice over the top, toss gently, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm!

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Kale Skillet!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider topping your skillet with some chickpeas or feta cheese. You can also customize it by adding your favorite spices or other seasonal vegetables!

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato Kale Skillet can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein for a more filling meal. Grilled chicken or chickpeas would complement the dish well, making it suitable for both meat lovers and vegetarians. If you're looking for a grain to serve alongside, quinoa or brown rice can provide additional fiber and texture.

For a touch of freshness, consider topping the skillet with crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt. These additions enhance the dish's creaminess and add a contrasting tanginess that balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can roast the sweet potatoes and sauté the kale and onions in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine them in a skillet to reheat, adding the lemon juice and adjusting seasonings as necessary for a quick meal.

If you're cooking in larger batches, keep in mind that the sweet potatoes will retain their texture better if reheated in the oven instead of the microwave. This can help restore some of the crispiness that may be lost. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish in portioned containers, but it's best to consume it within a month for optimal flavor and quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this skillet in advance?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and sauté the kale ahead of time. Just combine them when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for kale?

If you don't have kale, you can use spinach or Swiss chard as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.