Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s also packed with nutrients? Look no further than this Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl! This recipe is a delightful combination of savory ground beef, sweet and creamy sweet potato, tangy cottage cheese, and a vibrant blend of spices. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch. Forget boring salads; this recipe offers a hearty and flavorful alternative that will leave you feeling full and energized. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking, adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spices to create your perfect bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body!

Sweet Potato & Beef Cottage Cheese Bowls

A hearty and flavorful bowl combining savory ground beef with sweet roasted sweet potato and creamy cottage cheese. A quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking Sheet
• Large pot or steamer
• Mixing bowls

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 Large sweet potato peeled and cubed
• 1 lb Ground beef
• 1 Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 15 ounce can Diced tomatoes undrained
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper optional
• 1 cup Cottage cheese
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup Cilantro chopped, optional
• as needed Shredded cheddar cheese optional
• as needed Sour cream or Greek yogurt optional

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed sweet potato with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
• While sweet potato roasts, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
• Divide the roasted sweet potato among bowls. Top with the beef and tomato mixture.
• Dollop each bowl with cottage cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional).
• Serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword cottage cheese, delicious, easy recipe, ground beef, healthy, sweet potato, weeknight dinner

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipe

This Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of sweet roasted sweet potato, savory ground beef, and tangy cottage cheese creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. The spices add depth and warmth, elevating the dish to a whole new level. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference, add different vegetables, or swap out the protein for something else entirely. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Thirdly, it’s incredibly nutritious. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, ground beef provides lean protein, and cottage cheese adds calcium and protein. This bowl is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and balanced meal. Finally, it’s incredibly easy to make. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. No more takeout – this dish is quick, easy and incredibly rewarding. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy meal on the table fast.

Why You Should Try This Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl

Beyond its deliciousness and ease of preparation, this Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl offers several compelling reasons to give it a try. It’s a fantastic way to increase your vegetable intake. Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals. The recipe also allows you to sneak in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for an even more nutrient-rich meal. This recipe is a brilliant solution for those seeking a healthy and balanced diet. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, providing a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This makes it ideal for individuals aiming to improve their diet without sacrificing taste or convenience. Moreover, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare the sweet potato and beef mixture in advance, making assembling the bowls quick and easy on busy weekdays. This allows you to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal without spending excessive time in the kitchen. Finally, it’s a recipe that’s great for the whole family. Its mild spice level and appealing flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, providing a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl

This section details the ingredients and utensils needed to create the perfect Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl. Careful attention to both will ensure your recipe is a success!

Ingredients: A Detailed List

• 1 large sweet potato (about 1 pound): Choose a firm, unblemished sweet potato. The size will depend on your desired portion size. You can substitute with yams or even butternut squash for a slightly different flavor profile.
• 1 lb ground beef: Use your preferred type of ground beef, such as lean ground beef (90/10) or ground sirloin for a healthier option. You could also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
• 1 medium onion (about 1 cup chopped): Yellow onion is traditional, but white or red onions also work well. Finely chopping the onion ensures even cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds the most flavor. Alternatively, use 1 teaspoon of minced garlic from a jar.
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: The juice from the can adds moisture and flavor to the sauce. You can also use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Use a good quality chili powder for the best flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little heat. Omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• 1 cup cottage cheese: Use low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese, according to your preference. This adds creaminess and protein.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color. Parsley or chives can be used as a substitute.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A sharp cheddar is ideal, but any type of cheese works. Monterey Jack or pepper jack are great alternatives.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): A dollop of either adds a creamy, tangy element. Plain Greek yogurt is a healthier option.

Utensils You’ll Need:

• Large pot or steamer basket: For cooking the sweet potato.
• Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• Cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
• Knife: A sharp knife for efficient chopping.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For precise measurements of the spices and other ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
• Bowls: For serving the Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl.
• Potato masher (optional): For mashing the sweet potato if desired. You can leave it cubed for added texture

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl

Follow these steps for a perfect Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato: Wash and peel the sweet potato. Cut into 1-inch cubes. **Boil or steam** the sweet potato cubes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, **roast** the sweet potato cubes at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through. Drain well and set aside. You can lightly mash it if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving it cubed provides a nice textural contrast.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. **Break it up** with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once browned, **drain off any excess grease.** This step is crucial for a healthier and less greasy bowl.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t overcook the garlic, or it will become bitter. **Stir frequently** to prevent burning.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. **Bring the mixture to a simmer** and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. **Taste and adjust seasoning** as needed. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked sweet potato among bowls. Top with the beef and tomato mixture. **Dollop generously** with cottage cheese. This step allows for individual customization. You can adjust the amount of sweet potato, beef and cottage cheese according to your preferences.
6. Garnish (optional): Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. These garnishes add a burst of flavor and visual appeal to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other garnishes like avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice.

Tips and Variations for Your Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl

This versatile recipe offers endless possibilities for customization! Here are some helpful tips and exciting variations to elevate your Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor, or increase the cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Add more vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the beef and tomato mixture for added nutrients and flavor. Spinach or kale wilted into the sauce also adds great nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian/vegan: Replace the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian sausage, lentils, or black beans. For a vegan version, use a plant-based ground meat alternative and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
• Boost the protein: Add a handful of cooked quinoa or black beans to increase the protein content.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, goat cheese, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it a meal prep star: Prepare the sweet potato and beef mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
• Avoid common mistakes: Don’t overcook the sweet potato, as it can become mushy. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef, as this can result in steaming instead of browning. Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef to keep the dish healthier.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Your Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl

This Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Let’s break down the nutritional benefits of its key ingredients:

Sweet Potato: A great source of Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to healthy vision, immune function, digestive health, and blood pressure regulation. The fiber content also aids in weight management and promotes feelings of fullness.

Ground Beef: Provides a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Choose leaner ground beef to minimize saturated fat intake. Ground beef also contains iron and zinc, which are important for energy production and immune function.

Cottage Cheese: A rich source of protein and calcium. Calcium is crucial for strong bones and teeth. Cottage cheese is also relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy addition to the bowl.

Disclaimer: The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator to input the exact details of your recipe. This Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl provides a balanced meal offering substantial amounts of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins.

FAQs

In conclusion, this Sweet Potato Beef Cottage Cheese Bowl recipe is a delicious, healthy, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the ease of preparation, makes it a winner for the whole family. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations on social media and tag us! For more delicious and healthy recipe ideas, check out our other articles on RecipesLora. And for even more inspiration, check out our Pinterest board full of delicious recipes: Recipes Lora on Pinterest. Happy cooking!