This Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef dish is a cozy and hearty meal! It combines tender beef with creamy cottage cheese and sweet potatoes for a yummy mix of flavors.
I love how filling and colorful this dish is! Plus, it’s super easy to make. Just throw everything together, and you have a comforting dinner that the whole family will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These bring natural sweetness and creaminess to the dish. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can be good substitutes, but keep in mind they won’t have that same sweetness.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this recipe. However, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Cottage Cheese: This adds a lovely creaminess and protein. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using silken tofu blended until smooth or a plant-based yogurt.
Spices: The combination of cumin and smoked paprika gives the beef a fantastic flavor. Feel free to mix it up! Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for depth or use taco seasoning for a different twist.
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes is all about achieving a tender inside with a slightly crisp exterior. Here’s how you can get it right:
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps caramelize the sugars in the sweet potatoes.
- Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil and a bit of salt. Make sure they’re well-coated but not swimming in oil.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. If they’re crowded, they can steam instead of roast.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Look for a golden color and fork-tender texture.
This method ensures your sweet potatoes are deliciously sweet and slightly crispy, making them a perfect base for your dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and then around 20-25 minutes for cooking the sweet potatoes and beef. It’s a quick and delicious meal you can whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with half of the olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Yum!
2. Cook the Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they are softened and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spoon, break it up and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to keep stirring so it cooks evenly.
4. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you’re using it), and add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices mix well into the beef, enhancing all the flavors!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Start by dividing the roasted sweet potatoes and the spiced beef evenly into serving bowls.
6. Add the Cottage Cheese:
Spoon a generous amount of cottage cheese on top of each bowl. It adds a creamy texture that pairs nicely with the sweet and savory ingredients.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your bowls by garnishing with sliced green onions and, if desired, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika for a bit of color and kick. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and nutritious meal!
This dish perfectly balances the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the savory flavor of spiced beef, and the creaminess of cottage cheese for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using a different meat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can definitely prep the components in advance! Dice the sweet potatoes and sauté the beef mixture the day before, then assemble and heat just before serving. This makes it super convenient for busy weeknights!
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you could use Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using blended silken tofu or a plant-based yogurt. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
