How To Make Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl
Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl: Easy, Healthy & Satisfying Dinner
Looking for a bold, hearty dinner that’s healthy without trying too hard? This ground beef sweet potato bowl checks all the boxes. It’s got savory meat, caramelized potatoes, fiber-rich beans, and a zing of lime—all done in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this bowl brings balanced flavor and comfort in every bite. In this article, I’ll walk you through the full recipe, tips to personalize it, and why sweet potatoes and beef just belong together.
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How To Make Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This ground beef sweet potato bowl is a healthy, hearty weeknight meal packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavor—ready in 35 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until tender and golden, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in diced red onion, corn, and black beans. Cook for 3-4 more minutes until heated through.
4. Return sweet potatoes to the skillet and toss to combine.
5. Serve in bowls with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Notes
Double the recipe for meal prep.
Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Omit avocado when freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
How This Bowl Became My Weeknight Hero
I still remember the first time I seasoned meat on my own. I was six, perched on a wobbly stool in our Queens kitchen, sprinkling salt on chicken thighs while my mom stirred her famous stew. That moment lit something in me. Years later, in my own Brooklyn kitchen, that same spark flared when I threw together what would become my favorite weekday staple: the ground beef sweet potato bowl.
It started during a pop-up week. I’d just wrapped a butchery class and needed something fast, filling, and satisfying. I had sweet potatoes, ground beef, and half an avocado hanging on for dear life. A few pantry staples later—onion, corn, black beans—and the first version of this bowl was born. And honestly? I’ve made it nearly every week since.
This bowl hits the sweet spot (literally) between comfort and clean eating. The sweet potatoes caramelize into crispy, golden cubes while the ground beef brings depth and umami. It’s earthy, bright, hearty, and never boring. I love how it reminds me of those early kitchen days but fits perfectly into my grown-up chef life now.
Whether I’m serving this at a quick weeknight dinner or handing it out to guests at one of my Brooklyn meat pop-ups, it always gets love. It’s simple, but the flavors sing—especially when you finish with a squeeze of lime and a handful of cilantro.
Why Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Work So Well Together
Here’s the thing: sweet potatoes aren’t just for marshmallow casseroles. When you season and pan-roast them, they become crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside—exactly the kind of contrast ground beef craves.
In a ground beef sweet potato bowl, beef’s savory richness pairs perfectly with the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. Add black beans, corn, and smoky spices, and you’ve got a high-protein, fiber-rich bowl that’s satisfying but never heavy.
Ground beef sweet potato bowls deliver serious flavor and nutrition. Beef brings iron, protein, and healthy fats, while sweet potatoes offer beta carotene, fiber, and a subtle natural sweetness. The combo is crave-worthy, comforting, and ideal for meal prep.
It’s no wonder people ask: Does ground beef go with sweet potatoes? Absolutely—especially in a bowl like this, where flavor and balance shine. Pair it with paprika, lime, or creamy avocado to level up your next ground beef sweet potato bowl.
Simple Ingredients with Powerful Flavor
The beauty of this ground beef sweet potato bowl is that it doesn’t ask for much—just everyday ingredients that work hard for their flavor. Each one plays a role in building a dish that’s bold, colorful, and nutrient-packed.
Start with a pound of ground beef—I usually go with 85/15 for a balance of flavor and less grease. As it browns, it forms those tasty little crispy edges that give every bite serious texture. The sweet potatoes, diced and tossed with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, roast into golden cubes that are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Then comes the fun part: mixing in corn, black beans, and red onion. This trio brings sweetness, bite, and earthy flavor. A handful of fresh cilantro adds brightness, while avocado slices and a squeeze of lime tie everything together.
Here’s a quick ingredient recap:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (1 lb) | Savory, protein-rich base |
| Sweet potatoes (2 large) | Naturally sweet, filling carb |
| Corn, black beans | Hearty, fiber-rich add-ins |
| Red onion, cilantro, avocado | Flavor pops & creamy finish |
Make It Your Own: Swaps, Toppings & Add-ins
This bowl is endlessly customizable. Want to make it low-carb? Swap the sweet potatoes with roasted cauliflower or even zucchini. Looking for extra protein? Add a fried egg on top—trust me, it’s worth it. Craving heat? A spoonful of chipotle or a dash of cayenne gives the beef a smoky edge.
You can even turn it into a meal prep champion. Just double the recipe and divide it into containers for lunches that actually excite you. I’ve also subbed in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Still delicious.
For a veggie-forward bowl, use lentils or plant-based beef alternatives and pile on toppings like salsa, pickled onions, or tahini drizzle.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Bowl
One of the best parts of this ground beef sweet potato bowl is how smoothly it all comes together in just one skillet. Here’s how I do it, and how you can make it just as quick and delicious at home.
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. The key is uniform size—this helps them cook evenly. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your potatoes and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, letting them crisp and brown on the edges—about 10–12 minutes total. Once tender and golden, remove and set aside.
In that same skillet (no need to wash it), toss in your ground beef. Break it up as it browns, letting the bits sear for extra flavor. Once it’s fully cooked—usually 6–8 minutes—drain any extra fat to avoid a greasy base.
Now stir in the diced red onion, corn, and black beans. Cook everything together for another 3–4 minutes until it’s heated through and fragrant. The red onion should soften just slightly, staying bright and punchy.
Finally, return the roasted sweet potatoes to the pan and toss everything together. You want every bite to have a little bit of everything: crispy potato, juicy beef, and that colorful veggie mix.
For serving, spoon the mix into bowls and top with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. That fresh finish makes all the difference.
Pro Tips for Flavor & Efficiency
Want to get the most out of your ground beef sweet potato bowl? A few smart moves can take it from good to unforgettable.
Batch cooking is a total game changer. Double the recipe and portion it into airtight containers. A ground beef sweet potato bowl reheats well and keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days. For make-ahead lunches, keep lime and avocado on the side until serving—they’ll stay fresher.
Avoid mushy sweet potatoes by not overcrowding the skillet. Cooking for a crowd? Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven at 425°F for 25 minutes to get crispier edges and save stovetop space.
Crave extra flavor? Spice up the beef with hot sauce, cumin, or chili powder. Even a spoonful of salsa adds bold depth to your ground beef sweet potato bowl.
Trying to reduce fat? Use lean ground beef or swap in ground turkey. Skip the avocado and add a tangy lime vinaigrette instead.
This is one of those meals where a little prep goes a long way. Chop your sweet potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge, so your next ground beef sweet potato bowl comes together in minutes.
Why This Bowl Is a Weeknight Winner
Let’s talk about why this ground beef sweet potato bowl isn’t just tasty—it’s smart. You get a balanced meal with quality protein, complex carbs, fiber, and healthy fats in one satisfying serving.
On average, a ground beef sweet potato bowl contains 450–550 calories, depending on your toppings (hello, avocado). It’s naturally gluten-free, rich in vitamin A from roasted sweet potatoes, and packed with protein from both ground beef and black beans. No heavy sauces or empty carbs—just real food that fuels you.
Why It Works for Busy Nights or Meal Prep
- Protein keeps you full and supports recovery
- Fiber aids digestion and balances blood sugar
- Bold, satisfying flavors keep things exciting
Wondering, is sweet potato a low-calorie food? It depends on portion size. One medium sweet potato has about 100 calories and is loaded with antioxidants and gut-friendly fiber. It’s one of the most nutrient-dense carbs—especially when roasted.
This ground beef sweet potato bowl has become a go-to in my weekly lineup. I even served it at one of my winter pop-ups—and it sold out fast. That’s the kind of feel-good flavor that wins, every time.
How to Store, Reheat, and Meal Prep This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl
One reason this ground beef sweet potato bowl is on repeat in my kitchen? It’s meal prep-friendly, reheats like a dream, and stays delicious for days.
After cooking, divide everything into four airtight containers. Let the bowls cool completely before sealing to maintain texture and freshness.
- Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days
- Reheat: Microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a skillet for a crispier finish
- Pro tip: Store avocado and lime separately until just before eating to avoid soggy greens or gray avocado
Can You Freeze It?
Absolutely. Skip the avocado and cilantro, then freeze the rest in freezer-safe containers. Your ground beef sweet potato bowl will keep well for about a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as usual.
Once you try this easy, hearty ground beef sweet potato bowl, you’ll see why it’s a meal prep MVP. If it’s simple to make, easy to reheat, and somehow even better the next day—you’ve found a keeper.
FAQs
What meat pairs well with sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are surprisingly versatile. Beyond ground beef, they work well with pork, chicken, and even lamb. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with smoky, spiced meats—think BBQ pulled pork or chipotle chicken. But for an everyday favorite, nothing beats a well-seasoned ground beef sweet potato bowl. The beef adds depth and balance that makes the whole dish sing.
Does ground beef go with sweet potatoes?
Absolutely. This combo hits all the right notes—savory, sweet, hearty, and satisfying. In fact, dishes like this ground beef sweet potato bowl are popular in many cuisines for that reason. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika, and the beef brings out the natural caramelized sweetness of the potatoes.
How many calories in a sweet potato ground beef bowl?
A typical serving has around 500–550 calories, depending on your toppings and exact measurements. The base mix of seasoned sweet potatoes, lean ground beef, corn, and beans makes it both filling and nutritionally balanced. Want to lower the count? Use less avocado or swap in ground turkey.
Is sweet potato a low calorie food?
In terms of density and nutrition, yes. One cup of cubed sweet potato is roughly 114 calories, and it comes loaded with vitamin A, fiber, and complex carbs. It’s a smart carb—especially in bowls like this one where it’s roasted, not fried.
What do sweet potatoes pair well with?
Beyond beef, sweet potatoes pair well with avocado, black beans, corn, red onion, and lime—just like in this ground beef sweet potato bowl. They also complement bold spices like chipotle, cinnamon, cayenne, and smoked paprika. Their versatility makes them perfect for both savory and sweet dishes.
Conclusion
This ground beef sweet potato bowl is more than just a recipe—it’s one of those rare meals that checks every box: easy, filling, flavorful, and nutrient-packed. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or cooking on a tight weeknight schedule, it delivers on comfort and convenience.
I’ve made this dish for years—at home, in my workshops, and even at my Brooklyn pop-ups. And every time, someone asks for the recipe. So here it is—ready for your kitchen. Make it once, and I bet it’ll land in your regular rotation.