Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

Name: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash for a satisfying and hearty meal. The combination of tender ground beef and sweet potatoes creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. What's great is that it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it! Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a go-to family favorite.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:46:28.714Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I wanted something nutritious and filling, and this dish exceeded my expectations. The sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory ground beef.

I found that browning the beef first gives it a great depth of flavor, and letting the sweet potatoes caramelize a bit adds that extra crispy texture I love. It's a simple trick that truly elevates this dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for any meal.
Sweet potatoes add a nutritious twist.
Quick, one-pan meal means easier cleanup.

Choosing Your Ground Beef

When it comes to selecting ground beef for this hash, you have a variety of options. I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This ratio ensures that the meat stays juicy throughout the cooking process, contributing to a rich flavor. If you're concerned about fat intake, you can opt for lean ground beef, but be mindful to not overcook it, as it can dry out quickly.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground turkey or chicken is a great lower-fat alternative but will alter the dish's flavor profile. If you choose to go this route, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste and keep the meat moist during cooking.

Sweet Potato Tips

Sweet potatoes are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing not just sweetness but also essential nutrients like vitamin A. To ensure they cook evenly in the skillet, cut them into uniform pieces, roughly half an inch. In case you're in a pinch for time, you can microwave the diced sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This pre-cooking step reduces skillet time and helps prevent them from getting mushy while sautéing.

If you're looking for variations, consider using purple or Japanese sweet potatoes for a unique twist on flavor and color. They may cook a bit differently, so keep an eye on tenderness while stirring. You could also substitute with butternut squash for a different texture and taste that pairs well with the spices in this dish.

Vegan and Vegetarian Variations

For a vegetarian take on the Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, you can replace the beef with lentils or cooked quinoa. These alternatives not only add texture but also ensure the dish remains hearty and filling. Be mindful to adjust the seasoning, as these ingredients might require different flavor enhancements to balance the sweetness of the potatoes.

To amp up the nutrient profile further, toss in a variety of colorful vegetables such as spinach, kale, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This approach not only boosts the dish's color but also introduces additional flavors and textures. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to keep the veggies slightly tender but crisp.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

Add Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Incorporate Sweet Potatoes

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and continue to cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables to this dish. Kale or spinach can be great additions for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead Strategies

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the hash in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider making a larger batch and freezing portions. This dish freezes well, and you can enjoy it later by placing the hash in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave until it's piping hot.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash can be served in numerous ways. I love to top it with a fried egg for breakfast or brunch, allowing the yolk to run into the hash and enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also add a burst of freshness and color.

For a heartier meal, pair the hash with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. You could also serve it in tortillas for a breakfast taco-style dish, garnished with avocado slices and salsa. The possibilities are endless!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your sweet potatoes aren't cooking through by the time the beef and vegetables are perfectly done, it's likely due to uneven cutting or large pieces. Always aim for consistent sizes for even cooking. If they're taking too long, you can cover the skillet with a lid for the last few minutes to create steam, which helps them soften quickly.

Sometimes, you may notice the dish is bland despite seasoning. In such cases, sprinkle a bit more salt, or add a splash of hot sauce or soy sauce for an umami boost. Balancing the seasonings at the end is key to achieving a flavorful result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with the hash?

It's delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of eggs for breakfast or a salad for a light dinner.