If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting meal that packs a flavorful punch without fuss, the Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe is your new go-to. This dish balances hearty, seasoned ground beef with sweet, tender cubes of sweet potato, all brightened up by fresh herbs and creamy cottage cheese. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that feels both nourishing and exciting, ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying dish made from wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe focuses on a handful of simple, yet powerful ingredients that each play a starring role. From the sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness to the earthy spices that season the beef, every component contributes to the rich, colorful character of these bowls.
- Sweet potatoes (2 lb, peeled and cubed): They bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked just right.
- Olive oil (1.5 tbsp): Helps roast the potatoes to a golden, slightly crispy perfection while adding a fruity richness.
- Chili powder (1.5 tsp): Adds warmth and a mild smoky flavor that complements the meat beautifully.
- Cumin (1.5 tsp): Brings an earthy, nutty depth that elevates the entire bowl.
- Salt (1.25 tsp) and black pepper (3/4 tsp): Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20 lean): Provides rich, juicy protein with the perfect fat content for flavor.
- Taco seasoning (1 oz): A quick and flavorful way to spice up the beef without extra fuss.
- Water (1/4 cup): Keeps the beef moist as it simmers with the seasoning.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp) and garlic powder (1.25 tsp): Add savory depth and aroma to both the beef and overall dish.
- Cottage cheese (2 cups): Adds a creamy, tangy contrast that keeps the bowls feeling light and fresh.
- Parsley (2.5 tbsp, freshly chopped): Lends a bright, herby freshness that’s essential for aroma and flavor complexity.
- Avocado (sliced or diced): Adds creaminess and a buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the seasoned beef and sweet potatoes.
- Jalapenos (thinly sliced): Introduce a spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
- Hot honey and red pepper flakes: Optional toppings that add a perfect balance of sweet heat and extra spice.
How to Make Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Start by tossing those beautiful sweet potato cubes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. You’re aiming for golden edges and tender insides that offer a lightly crisp bite balanced with soft creaminess.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While the sweet potatoes roast, brown your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s starting to brown, add the taco seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the water to help the spices meld and let the beef simmer gently until fully cooked through and perfectly flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, give your cottage cheese a quick stir to keep it light and creamy. To elevate it, mix in half of your freshly chopped parsley, giving it a lovely burst of color and fresh taste. This creamy addition will contrast lovingly with the spice and texture of the beef and potatoes.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
It’s time to bring these elements together! Layer the roasted sweet potatoes at the base, top with the seasoned ground beef, and dollop with the cottage cheese mixture. Finish with the remaining parsley sprinkled on top.
How to Serve Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes here are what take the Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe to the next level. Bright slices of avocado add creamy luxury, thin jalapenos box in just the right amount of heat, while a drizzle of hot honey lightly sweetens and balances the spices. Sprinkle on some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous and want that extra kick.
Side Dishes
Serve these bowls alongside a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or some warm corn tortillas if you want to turn it into a fuss-free taco night. A simple side of steamed greens or black beans also pairs well to round out the meal with more texture and fiber.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner or casual meal prep, serve these bowls in mason jars or vibrant bowls layered carefully with each component visible. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pepitas or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating can add unexpected flavor twists that delight. Playing with presentation makes this Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe perfect for sharing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator, keeping the components separated for best texture — sweet potatoes, beef, and cottage cheese each last beautifully for up to 3 days. Keeping the garnishes like avocado separate helps maintain freshness.
Freezing
While ground beef and sweet potatoes freeze well, cottage cheese does not freeze without changing texture. For freezing, portion the beef and sweet potatoes in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll last up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the beef and potatoes gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep moisture. Add fresh garnishes and cottage cheese after warming so they stay creamy and vibrant, preserving that bright, fresh contrast you love in the Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use leaner ground beef for this recipe?
You certainly can, but the 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio lends great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner beef, expect a slightly drier texture, so add a little extra olive oil or a splash of broth while cooking.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, Greek yogurt or ricotta make excellent creamy alternatives. Both provide a lovely tang and creaminess that complements the spices and sweet potatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your taco seasoning doesn’t contain any gluten-containing additives. Always check labels to be sure.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add extra jalapenos, increase red pepper flakes, or use a spicier taco seasoning blend. A dash of hot sauce on top right before serving also amps up the heat beautifully.
Can I meal prep this recipe for the week?
Absolutely. This recipe is fantastic for meal prep since the ingredients store well and flavors even deepen after a day. Assemble your bowls fresh each day or pack ingredients separately to mix and match during the week.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big, comforting hug while being quick enough to whip up any day. Give it a try, share it with friends or family, and watch how these bowls become a favorite in your kitchen rotation!
Print
Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Simple Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls combine hearty, spiced ground beef with tender, roasted sweet potatoes for a delicious and nutritious meal. Enhanced with cottage cheese, fresh avocado, and a hint of heat from jalapenos and hot honey, these bowls are perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and fresh.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 tsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp cumin
- 1.25 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean for best flavor)
- 1 oz taco seasoning (e.g., Old El Paso)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1.25 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Toppings and Garnishes
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 2.5 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Avocado, sliced or diced (to taste)
- Jalapenos, thinly sliced (to taste)
- Hot honey (to drizzle)
- Red pepper flakes (to sprinkle)
Instructions
- Prepare and Roast Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it starts to brown, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the seasoning is well incorporated.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the roasted sweet potatoes among four bowls. Top each with a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef. Add a scoop of cottage cheese on the side or on top.
- Add Fresh Toppings and Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the bowls. Add avocado slices and jalapenos according to your taste. Drizzle hot honey over the top and finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the bowls warm, allowing each diner to mix the ingredients together for a delicious balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can be used but will change the flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of jalapenos and hot honey according to your preferred spice level.
- To keep the dish low carb, omit the hot honey or reduce the amount used.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright aroma but can be substituted with cilantro.
