Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash on busy weeknights. This dish is not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of spiced ground beef and sweet potatoes creates a satisfying meal that the whole family enjoys. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up any extra vegetables you might have lying around. I often add bell peppers or spinach to customize it to our taste, making it both versatile and hearty.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:09:36.138Z

When I first attempted this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, I was looking for a wholesome meal that didn’t require a lot of prep or clean-up. The outcome was incredible! The sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, blending perfectly with the savory beef and spices. I’ve found that using a cast-iron skillet really enhances the flavors.

Next time I made it, I included some diced onions and garlic, which elevated the dish even further. Cooking everything together allows the flavors to mingle, making each bite delicious. It’s become a favorite in our household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef paired with sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner
Versatile dish that can include your favorite veggies

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Hash

One key technique to achieving a fantastic texture in your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is ensuring even cooking. When dicing sweet potatoes, aim for uniform pieces about half an inch to ensure they cook at the same rate. This helps prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain hard. As you sauté, look for a slight caramelization on the edges; this enhances the sweetness and adds depth of flavor.

Another essential tip is to let the beef brown properly. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. A well-heated skillet allows the ground beef to sear effectively. Keep the beef in a single layer for the best results, and don’t stir it too frequently. Let it sit for the first few minutes before breaking it up to allow for those delicious golden-brown bits to develop.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The sweet potatoes in this recipe not only provide a natural sweetness but also contribute essential nutrients like fiber and vitamin A. If you find yourself short on sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind they will offer a different flavor and texture. For a healthier twist, consider using butternut squash for an equally satisfying yet unique flavor profile.

Don't hesitate to experiment with spices. While paprika and cumin are delicious, you might also enjoy adding chili powder for a hint of heat or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor. Additionally, if you want a meatier hash, consider mixing in some cooked sausage or turkey ground meat, which pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Sauté for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring occasionally.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Brown the Beef

Push the vegetables to the side and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Cook until fully browned, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine and Serve

Mix everything in the skillet together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy this hearty dish any time of the day!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this hash by adding different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat while it cooks.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to retain the hash's crispy texture. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the hash. Spread the cooled hash into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, following the same reheating tips to restore its original texture.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash makes for a delightful main dish, but it can also be served as a hearty breakfast or brunch option. Top the hash with a fried or poached egg for added richness and flavor; the runny yolk brings everything together beautifully. For a touch of freshness, consider adding sliced avocado or a dollop of yogurt on top, cutting through the dish's savory components.

For a complete meal, pair this hash with a side salad featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing can balance the richness of the beef and sweet potatoes while adding a vibrant color to your plate. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices, creating a satisfying grain component to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this hash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and simply reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great and gives a lighter flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.