This Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef dish is a tasty and hearty meal that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with sweet potatoes and savory beef. It’s filling and packed with flavor!
What I love about this recipe is how it makes leftovers taste great too! Just reheat, and you’ve got a quick lunch or dinner ready to go. Easy peasy! 🥔🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! They add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work, though they won’t have the same sweetness.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef to keep it healthier. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Vegetarian? Use lentils or plant-based meat substitutes!
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient gives a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, consider Greek yogurt or ricotta as a substitute for a similar creaminess.
Green Onions: These add freshness and flavor. If you don’t have them, finely chopped regular onions or chives can do the trick!
How Do You Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their sweetness and gives them a nice caramelized flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even roasting—about 1-2 inch cubes work best.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this helps with flavor!
- Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Crowding them can make them steam instead of roast.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway for a nice golden color.
Following these tips ensures your sweet potatoes are tender and full of flavor!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 large sweet potato (about 400g), peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup mashed sweet potato (from the same or additional sweet potatoes)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes for cooking, with a total time of about 45 minutes. You’ll spend some time roasting the sweet potatoes and browning the beef, but the results are delicious and filling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with half the olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them gently until coated. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, giving them a delicious flavor.
2. Prepare Mashed Sweet Potato:
While the diced sweet potatoes are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to boil. If you have extra sweet potato cubes, cook them until tender. Once cooked, drain and mash until smooth. If you prefer, you can also use some of the roasted sweet potatoes for this step!
3. Cook the Beef:
In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil on medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
4. Assemble the Dish:
In a serving bowl, first layer the mashed sweet potato, then add the roasted sweet potato cubes, and top with the cooked ground beef. Finally, add dollops of cottage cheese on top and sprinkle the sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal that brings together creamy, sweet, and savory elements!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is delicious, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep components in advance! Roast the sweet potatoes and cook the beef a day ahead. Then, store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving for a quick and easy meal.
What Can I Use Instead of Cottage Cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or ricotta for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, a dairy-free yogurt can work for a non-dairy option!
