Ground Beef Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bowl – Cozy, Protein-Packed Comfort
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that feels both hearty and wholesome — and this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bowl delivers on both counts. It’s the kind of recipe that comes together quickly, nourishes deeply, and still manages to taste indulgent. Imagine tender cubes of roasted sweet potatoes mingling with savory, seasoned ground beef, all topped with cool, creamy cottage cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s simple, comforting, and full of balanced nutrition.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for a busy week, looking for a quick dinner, or craving something cozy without the fuss, this bowl is the answer. The sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and vibrant color, the ground beef brings hearty depth, and the cottage cheese lends a creamy tang that ties everything together.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup cottage cheese (use full-fat for creamier texture)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro for variation)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the sweet potato cubes in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Spread evenly on the sheet.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide roasted sweet potatoes and ground beef between bowls. Top with generous spoonfuls of cottage cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over each bowl. For a little extra flavor, dust lightly with paprika or drizzle a touch of olive oil. Serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
- For extra depth, sauté diced onions or garlic with the beef.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for extra greens.
- If you prefer spice, top with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Try swapping cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier bite.
Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add a spoonful of salsa, black beans, and shredded cheddar for a southwestern twist.
- Breakfast Bowl: Top with a fried egg and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
- Mediterranean Bowl: Swap parsley for mint, drizzle with lemon juice, and use feta instead of cottage cheese.
Ground Beef Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.
- Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Assemble bowls with beef, sweet potatoes, and cottage cheese. Garnish with parsley and paprika.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a meal prep option — portion into containers for quick lunches. It also works great as a cozy weeknight dinner or post-workout meal. Pair with a simple side salad, roasted broccoli, or avocado slices for extra nutrition.
Storage Information
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet. Keep cottage cheese separate and add fresh before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely — ground turkey or chicken works beautifully and keeps the meal leaner.
Is cottage cheese really good in this?
Yes! Its mild creaminess complements the savory beef and sweet potatoes perfectly. It adds protein and a lovely cooling contrast.
Can I make this vegan?
Swap ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu, and use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative.
History / Fun Facts
Bowls like this have become popular as part of the “meal bowl” trend — meals that balance protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one satisfying dish. Sweet potatoes have been cherished in kitchens worldwide for centuries, known for their rich flavor and high nutritional value. Pairing them with protein-rich cottage cheese gives this bowl a comforting yet modern feel — a perfect blend of rustic simplicity and fresh nutrition.
