tender ground beef mingling with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all jarred with fragrant garlic and toasted spices. This Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes recipe brings cozy comfort food to your table, perfect for chilly nights. It’s creamy without the cream, making it a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any day of the week! Plus, it’s simple, quick, and a total crowd-pleaser. Just grab your favorite soft blanket, and dive into this beautifully balanced dish that tickles your taste buds with every bite.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This dish brings together mouth-watering flavors and hearty textures that you won’t be able to resist! Ground beef adds a savory element while sweet potatoes contribute a creamy, almost buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with spices. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, saving you time on clean-up!
- Quick and Easy: Dinner ready in about 30 minutes!
- Comfort Food: The creamy texture without any heavy ingredients.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you probably already have.
- Meal Prep: Great for making ahead and reheating for busy nights.
- Nutritious: A good source of protein and vitamins from sweet potatoes and broccoli.
- Flexible: Easy to adapt for different diets, so everyone can enjoy!
- Taste Explosion: A mix of spices creates a flavor-packed bite in every forkful.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes
- 1 pound lean ground beef – Adds hearty protein and a savory flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Brings an aromatic kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided) – Elevates the dish’s overall taste.
- 2 teaspoons cumin – Adds a warm, earthy depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness, giving it a rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the garlic flavor without fresh prep.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Offers sweetness and depth in flavor.
- 3 cups sweet potatoes (about 1 large) – Provides natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.
- 10 ounces broccoli florets – Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- 1 cup beef broth – Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes
Phase 1 – Prep
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook quickly.
- Mince the garlic and set it aside; fresh garlic really adds a lively flavor!
- Measure out your spices and set them next to the stove for easy access.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, beef broth, and broccoli florets. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover.
- Cook for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
- Spoon the savory mixture into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
- Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade dish!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Perfectly Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Cut them smaller for faster cooking or larger if you like a chunkier texture.
- Spice Swap: Try using chili powder if you want a little heat instead of smoked paprika.
- Storage Saver: Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy weeknight meal later!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the sweet potatoes. They can turn mushy if left too long in the pot. To prevent this, check for tenderness after the recommended cooking time and taste test.
Another pitfall is not seasoning enough at each stage. Layering your salt and spices as you cook helps build a more complex flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasonings!
Lastly, crowded pots can lead to uneven cooking. If your pot is small, consider making the recipe in batches to ensure everything cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free as is!
- Dairy-Free: No dairy ingredients used, making it a great option.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbal: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh touch.
- Method Adaptations: Make it in an Instant Pot or air fryer for quicker cooking!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes
- Best Pairings: Serve with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a lovely, fresh touch.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the dish perfectly.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! Cook it ahead for a quick meal during the week; it reheats beautifully!
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the sweet potatoes may change slightly.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can toss in some frozen cauliflower instead of broccoli for a twist!
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Mash some of the sweet potatoes as you stir, creating a creamy texture.
Can I double it?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger pot for even cooking.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a splash of beef broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.
Enjoy this delicious Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes recipe that keeps you full and happy! It’s a great dish that warms you from the inside out. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef Adds hearty protein and savory flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) Brings an aromatic kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided) Elevates the dish’s overall taste.
- 2 teaspoons cumin Adds a warm, earthy depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness, giving it a rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Boosts the garlic flavor without fresh prep.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder Offers sweetness and depth in flavor.
- 3 cups sweet potatoes (about 1 large) Provides natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.
- 10 ounces broccoli florets Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- 1 cup beef broth Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook quickly.
- Mince the garlic and set it aside.
- Measure out your spices and set them next to the stove for easy access.
Cooking
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, beef broth, and broccoli florets. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover.
- Cook for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Serving
- Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
- Spoon the savory mixture into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
- Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade dish!