This Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef dish is a fun mix of flavors! It combines creamy cottage cheese with sweet potatoes and flavorful beef for a tasty meal.
I love how filling it is—perfect for a cozy dinner! Plus, it’s simple to make. Just bake the potatoes, cook the beef, and mix it all together. Easy peasy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with beef. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can work as a substitute but will change the flavor slightly.
Ground Beef: I always use lean ground beef for a healthier choice. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option if you’re looking for alternatives. Each will bring its unique flavor!
Cottage Cheese: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt is a great swap. It will give you the creamy texture with a tangy kick.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika create a lovely warmth. Feel free to add your favorite spices, like taco seasoning, for a different twist. Just adjust the amounts until it fits your taste!
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and brings a delightful texture. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for a nice crisp.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on a baking sheet. A little oil helps them caramelize.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown and tender!
These tips will make your sweet potatoes the highlight of the dish!
Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1 green onion, sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a bit of time roasting the sweet potatoes while cooking the beef—it’s a straightforward meal that’s well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a baking sheet and toss the diced sweet potatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for around 25-30 minutes. Remember to toss them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization.
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Next, add the minced garlic and, if you like a kick, toss in the minced red chili or red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Season Your Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the beef in those delicious spices. Give it another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Combine and Serve:
When the sweet potatoes are ready, gently add them to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together to combine. Now it’s time to serve! Scoop the sweet potato and beef mixture into bowls, add a generous dollop of cottage cheese, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it.
6. Garnish and Enjoy!
Finish with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley, and green onion slices on top. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and flavorful bowl!
This dish combines sweet roasted potatoes, savory spiced ground beef, and creamy cottage cheese, topped with fresh avocado and herbs for a nutritious and comforting meal! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Dish?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary based on the type of meat you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a little extra cottage cheese to refresh the creaminess!
What If I Don’t Like Cottage Cheese?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can easily substitute it with Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Both alternatives will provide a creamy texture without compromising the dish’s flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegan cottage cheese or tofu as a substitute, and ensure any cheese toppings are dairy-free options!