Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions
I absolutely love this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash! It's the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The sweet potatoes add a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the beef's robust flavor. Preparing this dish is not only quick but also a great way to use up ingredients in my fridge. I can whip it up in just 30 minutes, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at home.
Cooking this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash was an experiment in blending flavors that worked out beautifully! I started with the basics—ground beef and sweet potatoes—but threw in some spices and vegetables for an extra punch. What surprised me was how those sweet potatoes caramelized, bringing out their natural sugars.
This dish has become a staple because it’s versatile and satisfying. I often add toppings like avocado or a fried egg, enhancing its nutritional value and giving it a fresh twist. Trust me; the blend of textures makes each bite memorable!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory beef mixed with sweet, creamy potatoes
- Quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes
- Versatile—great for any meal and perfect for meal prep
Understanding the Ingredients
The star ingredients in this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash are, of course, the ground beef and sweet potatoes. Ground beef adds rich protein and a savory depth that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Choosing a good quality ground beef, preferably at least 80% lean, ensures that your hash is juicy but not overly greasy. Sweet potatoes are not only a healthier alternative to regular potatoes but also bring a natural creaminess that enhances the dish's overall texture. Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes for the best results.
Onions and red bell peppers provide a lovely aromatic base for the hash, with their sweetness balancing the beefiness of the ground meat. It’s important to chop the onions and peppers uniformly for even cooking. You can substitute the red bell pepper with green or yellow bell peppers if you prefer a different flavor profile or need to use what you have on hand. Just remember, varying the peppers can change the overall taste of the dish.
Cooking Technique Tips
When cooking the ground beef, the key is to use medium-high heat; this allows for proper browning and a deeper flavor without overcooking the meat. Be sure to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks; larger chunks can lead to inconsistent cooking. If you're making this in a cast-iron skillet, the heat retention will provide a nice sear on the beef, which adds to the dish's flavor. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until browned, usually about 5–7 minutes.
The sautéing process for the sweet potatoes and vegetables is crucial for developing flavor. Start by adding them to a hot skillet, which will help caramelize their natural sugars. You'll know they’re ready to be seasoned when they start to soften and develop a few golden edges, typically after 5–7 minutes. Adding garlic after the vegetables helps to prevent it from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. Lastly, don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning, particularly the salt and pepper, to make the flavors pop.
Ingredients
Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Gather all ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes, onions, and red bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
Combine and Spice
Add the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Stir well and return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious hash!
This dish can be served as is or with your choice of toppings!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some cheese on top before serving.
Storing and Reheating
This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Once cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion the hash into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. This way, it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating is simple. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally for even warming. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, giving it a couple of minutes, but be sure to stir halfway through to avoid hot spots. A splash of olive oil or a few drops of water can help revive the dish’s moisture.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize this hash based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with chickpeas or lentils, and adjust the spices to enhance the flavor. You might even consider adding kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color. If you're looking to up the heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
When it comes to serving, this hash is incredibly versatile. Top it with a fried or poached egg for a delicious breakfast option, or serve it with a side salad to make it a complete meal. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce or your favorite salsa on top for an extra kick. It can be served as a hearty brunch dish or even as a quick weeknight dinner—it’s that adaptable!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! This recipe is versatile; you can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat.
→ Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and reheat it for a quick meal throughout the week.
→ What can I serve this with?
This hash goes well with eggs, avocado, or a side salad to add freshness.
→ Is it healthy?
Yes, it is packed with protein and nutrients from the sweet potatoes and vegetables, making it a balanced meal!
Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
I absolutely love this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash! It's the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The sweet potatoes add a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the beef's robust flavor. Preparing this dish is not only quick but also a great way to use up ingredients in my fridge. I can whip it up in just 30 minutes, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at home.
Created by: Noemi Turner
Recipe Type: Hearty Traditions
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, remove the beef and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes, onions, and red bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
Add the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Stir well and return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious hash!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some cheese on top before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 30g