Go Back

Beef Sweet Potato Bowl

A weeknight superstar - roasted sweet potatoes with spiced ground beef, bright herbs, and creamy accents for a balanced, protein-rich bowl.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Modern American
Keyword: beef sweet potato bowl, ground beef sweet potato, protein sweet potato bowl
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420kcal

Equipment

  • Sheet pan for roasting sweet potatoes
  • Large skillet for searing and seasoning ground beef
  • Mixing bowl and serving bowls

Ingredients

  • 800 g 2 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 2 cm pieces
  • 30 ml 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 450 g 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 15 g 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 10 g 2 tsp chili powder
  • 5 g 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 60 ml 1/4 cup beef stock
  • 100 g 1/2 cup cottage cheese or 1 avocado sliced
  • 30 g 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • 30 g 1 oz toasted pumpkin seeds
  • 15 ml 1 tbsp hot honey
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 220 C (425 F). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Spread on a sheet pan in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until edges are caramelized and interior is tender.
  • While potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil and crumble in 450 g ground beef. Cook until browned and crisped in spots, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Push beef to one side and add 15 g tomato paste to bloom for 30 seconds. Stir through beef, add 10 g chili powder and 5 g smoked paprika, season with salt and pepper. Pour in 60 ml stock and simmer for 2-3 minutes until saucy and glossy.
  • When sweet potatoes are done, remove them from oven and toss gently with 15 ml (1 tbsp) hot honey or maple syrup if you like sweet-spicy contrast. The residual heat will make a sticky glaze.
  • Assemble bowls: divide roasted sweet potatoes among four bowls, top with seasoned ground beef, a spoonful of cottage cheese or sliced avocado, and scatter 30 g toasted pumpkin seeds and 30 g chopped cilantro.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lemon or lime, a grind of black pepper, and an extra drizzle of hot honey if desired. Serve warm so the textures - creamy, crisp, and tender - are all pronounced.

Notes

  • Protein swap: Use ground turkey or lamb for different flavor profiles.
  • Make-ahead: Roast sweet potatoes in advance and reheat at 200 C (400 F) for 10 minutes to refresh.
  • Spice level: Increase chili powder or add red pepper flakes for more heat.