If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances hearty comfort and fresh, vibrant flavors, the Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender, spiced ground beef and caramelized sweet potatoes with creamy cottage cheese, creamy avocado, and a zesty kick from fresh jalapeños. It’s a colorful, nutrient-packed bowl that feels both indulgent and nourishing, making it a fantastic choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a clear role, from the rich, robust spices to the creamy and fresh toppings that balance every bite.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein with a rich flavor base for the dish.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes: Sweet and tender, they add natural sweetness and a lovely orange hue.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps roast the sweet potatoes to caramelized perfection.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a mild smokiness that complements the beef and sweet potatoes.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Brings warm, earthy undertones to the seasoning blend.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds gentle heat without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Delivers savory depth and aroma.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: A subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of boldness and spice.
- 1/4 cup low sodium beef broth or water: Keeps the ground beef juicy and glossy.
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese: Brings creaminess and a mild tang that contrasts the spiced meat.
- 1 large avocado sliced: Adds buttery richness and vibrant color.
- 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños thinly sliced: Offers bright heat and a crisp texture.
- 2 green onions thinly sliced: Provides fresh crunch and a mild bite.
- 1 lime cut into wedges (optional): For an optional zesty finish that lifts every element.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil and all the spices—smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper—so every cube is beautifully coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roasting them for 20 to 25 minutes until they are caramelized on the edges and tender inside will bring out their natural sweetness and create a fantastic texture contrast for your bowls.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Ground Beef
While your sweet potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains and it starts browning. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Then, sprinkle the same blend of spices over the beef and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the beef broth or water and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it reduces slightly. This step gives the beef a glossy, saucy finish that binds all the flavors together.
Step 3: Prepare the Toppings
While your meat simmers, it’s the perfect time to prep the fresh toppings. Slice the avocado, jalapeños, and green onions. Give the cottage cheese a gentle stir so it becomes creamy and scoopable, ready to balance the warm, spiced elements with its cool, creamy texture. These fresh ingredients add layers of flavor, texture, and color that transform this dish from simple to spectacular.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
Divide the roasted sweet potatoes into four bowls, then top each with a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef. Add a scoop of creamy cottage cheese to one side, fan out the avocado slices for beauty and creaminess, and sprinkle with the green onions and jalapeño slices. If you like a bit of zing, finish each bowl with a vibrant squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately while the flavors are warm and the textures fresh.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes bring an extra pop of freshness and texture to these bowls. Thinly sliced jalapeños add a fantastic heat and crunch. Green onions offer a mild pungency and crisp bite, while a squeeze of lime juice wakes up all the flavors with a burst of citrusy zing. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro or a pinch of smoked paprika on top for a beautiful finish.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are a complete meal on their own, pairing them with a light side salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad can add an extra refreshing element. For an extra crunch, consider serving with homemade tortilla chips or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a green contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Mix up your presentation by layering the ingredients in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch or by turning the bowls into a vibrant platter for sharing at dinner parties. You can also swap sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash or add a fried egg on top for an indulgent twist. The versatility of the Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe means you can tailor it to any occasion or craving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover components into airtight containers. Keep the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked beef, and fresh toppings separated to maintain texture and flavor. Stored properly in the refrigerator, each component stays fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
The ground beef and roasted sweet potatoes freeze well, making this recipe a great option for meal prepping. Place them in freezer-safe containers and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the cottage cheese or fresh toppings as their texture changes when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat the beef and sweet potatoes gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Then, assemble your bowls fresh with cold toppings like avocado and cottage cheese. This method keeps the creamy elements fresh and prevents them from breaking down under heat.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works beautifully with the spice blend in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic choice for meal prepping. Keep the components separate in containers to preserve freshness and texture, and assemble right before eating.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While the recipe shines with ground beef, you can swap in cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version that still offers protein and texture.
What’s the best way to store avocado slices?
To keep avocado slices from browning, toss them with a little lime or lemon juice before storing in an airtight container. Use them within a day for best results.
Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Definitely! The jalapeños add fresh heat, but you can reduce their quantity or remove seeds to tone it down. Similarly, adjust chili powder to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—flavorful, comforting, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a new family dinner or prepping lunches ahead, these bowls will never disappoint. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Cottage Cheese Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls combine roasted spiced sweet potatoes with juicy, seasoned ground beef and creamy cottage cheese. Enhanced with fresh avocado, jalapeños, green onions, and an optional squeeze of lime, this balanced meal is packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or meal prep, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and spices while being quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (divided)
- 1 tsp ground cumin (divided)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (divided)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (divided)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (divided)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste (divided)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (divided)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup low sodium beef broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares you for roasting the sweet potatoes evenly.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast Sweet Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing them once halfway through. Roast until they are caramelized at the edges and tender in the center, then set them aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: While the potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink.
- Season Beef: Drain excess fat if necessary. Then season the beef with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly coat all the meat.
- Simmer Beef: Pour in the beef broth or water and simmer the seasoned beef mixture for 2 to 3 minutes. Allow it to reduce slightly until the beef appears glossy and saucy but not soupy. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Toppings: While the beef finishes, slice the avocado, jalapeños, and green onions. Stir the cottage cheese gently to make it creamy and ready to scoop.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the roasted sweet potatoes evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with a portion of the seasoned ground beef and add a generous scoop of cottage cheese on the side.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Fan the avocado slices over each bowl, then sprinkle with green onions and jalapeño slices. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the bowls immediately while the beef and sweet potatoes are warm. Alternatively, let the components cool and pack them separately for convenient meal prep bowls.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth with water for a lighter sauce or to reduce sodium.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Leftover components store well separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reduce fat, choose extra lean ground beef or drain fat thoroughly after cooking.
