Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort
I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash for brunch on lazy weekends. The combination of savory ground beef with the sweetness of the potatoes creates a delightful balance, and it comes together in just 30 minutes! It's not only filling but packed with flavor, which makes it a go-to dish for my family. Plus, I can customize it with any vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile meal that never disappoints.
When I first experimented with this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how delicious it turned out. The secret lies in cooking the sweet potatoes until they're just tender, allowing them to caramelize a bit and intensify their flavor. I’ve learned to season the beef generously to balance the sweetness.
One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of hot sauce at the end for an extra kick! Whether it’s for brunch or a quick dinner, this dish has become a family favorite, and I love watching everyone enjoy it.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of savory and sweet in every bite
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings
- Easily customizable with different vegetables or spices for variety
Understanding the Ingredients
The star of this dish, sweet potatoes, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients such as vitamins A and C. Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the savory ground beef, creating a satisfying contrast. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin to ensure a creamy texture after cooking. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes, which may affect the flavor and consistency of your hash.
Ground beef contributes to the dish's heartiness and flavor depth, with its richness adding a satisfying element to each bite. For a leaner alternative, consider using ground turkey or chicken, which will still provide excellent flavor but with fewer calories. If you want a bolder taste, try incorporating ground lamb instead for a Mediterranean twist.
Cooking Techniques for Success
When cooking the sweet potatoes, patience is key. Allow them to caramelize slightly, which will enhance their flavor, rather than rushing the cooking process. Stir them gently but regularly; if they start to stick to the pan, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning. You'll know they are ready when they are fork-tender and starting to turn golden on the edges. This step lays the foundation for a balanced dish full of vibrant flavors.
Sautéing the vegetables before adding the ground beef is crucial for building a flavor base. The onions, garlic, and bell peppers should turn translucent and fragrant, signaling that they are ready for the beef. Make sure to break apart the ground beef thoroughly as it cooks; this will ensure even browning and prevent clumping, leading to a more pleasant texture in your final dish.
Ingredients
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure you have all ingredients ready to go!
Instructions
Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes or until just tender, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Beef
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Once the beef is browned, add the cooked sweet potatoes back to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious homemade hash!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this hash with your favorite herbs or spices. Adding some spinach or kale just before serving can also introduce a nutritious green element.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or even kale for added nutrients. To amplify the flavors, consider adding spices such as cumin or chili powder, which will introduce an exciting kick. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the hash in the last minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt beautifully into the dish.
Serve this hash with a fried egg on top for brunch or a side of fresh salad to brighten up your meal. It pairs wonderfully with avocado slices for creaminess or a dollop of sour cream for tang. This adaptability makes it a perfect candidate for any meal, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
If you're looking to save time, this hash can be made ahead of time. Cook it fully and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help revive the dish without overcooking the ingredients.
When reheating, keep an eye on the heat so that you don't dry out the hash. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to meld back together instead of becoming rubbery or overly dry. I often like to freshen it up with some new chopped herbs or a splash of hot sauce when serving again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great as alternatives.
→ Can I make this hash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with the hash?
This hash pairs well with eggs, avocado, or fresh toast.
→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash for brunch on lazy weekends. The combination of savory ground beef with the sweetness of the potatoes creates a delightful balance, and it comes together in just 30 minutes! It's not only filling but packed with flavor, which makes it a go-to dish for my family. Plus, I can customize it with any vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile meal that never disappoints.
Created by: Marina Lowe
Recipe Type: Traditional Family Comfort
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes or until just tender, stirring occasionally.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Once the beef is browned, add the cooked sweet potatoes back to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this hash with your favorite herbs or spices. Adding some spinach or kale just before serving can also introduce a nutritious green element.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 24g