Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Fried eggs (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Inspiration

I love making Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash for a comforting meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. The combination of savory beef and sweet potatoes is a delightful contrast, and it’s a dish that always brings a smile to my face. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows me to get creative with spices and toppings. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, I find it satisfying and versatile enough to suit any time of day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables!

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:01:36.590Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, I was looking for a quick dish that wouldn't skimp on flavor. After trying various seasonings, I discovered that a touch of smoked paprika elevates the entire dish, giving it a warm, inviting aroma. I loved how the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes melds beautifully with the savory beef, making every bite a comforting experience.

What I found most helpful was prepping everything in advance. By cutting the sweet potatoes and chopping the onions beforehand, I could whip this dish together in under 30 minutes on a busy weeknight. It’s a flexible recipe where I often toss in any remaining veggies from the fridge, which makes it a great clean-out meal too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A harmonious blend of savory and sweet for a perfect flavor balance
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of ground beef is essential for flavor and texture in this hash. I prefer using an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio, which gives a nice richness without being overly greasy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that you may want to add a bit more oil during cooking to ensure they remain moist.

Sweet potatoes not only bring natural sweetness but also pack in nutrients like vitamins A and C. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. Dicing them evenly (about 1/2 inch) will help them cook uniformly, ensuring that some pieces don’t turn mushy while others remain undercooked. For added flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes before adding them to the hash.

Onions and bell peppers contribute a wonderful depth of flavor. I suggest using a medium yellow onion for its balanced sweetness and acidity. Feel free to experiment with bell pepper varieties for different tastes; red and orange peppers are sweeter, while green offers a slightly bitter contrast, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Hash

To achieve that perfect texture, remember to avoid crowding the skillet when cooking the beef; this prevents steaming and promotes browning. I recommend using a large skillet or cast iron pan. Once the beef is added, let it sear without stirring for a couple of minutes until a nice crust forms, then break it up for even cooking.

When cooking the sweet potatoes, keep an eye on them and don’t hesitate to adjust the heat if they brown too quickly. You want them tender with some crispy edges for texture. If you're short on time, microwaving them for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet can speed up the process significantly.

The smoked paprika is a standout ingredient in this hash. It brings a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand, try replacing it with a little cumin for an earthy touch, or adding a dash of cayenne for heat. Just be mindful of the quantities to maintain balance in flavors.

Ingredients

For the Hash

1 lb ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

For Serving

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Fried eggs (optional)

Steps

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and starting to brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and add the ground beef. Cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Veggies and Season

Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the veggies are tender. Add back the sweet potatoes and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Mix well to combine.

Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand. This recipe also works great with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storage and Reheating

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days when kept in an airtight container. It’s a great make-ahead option for meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Stir frequently until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, reheating for 1-2 minutes until hot, ensuring you stir halfway for even heating.

You might also consider freezing the hash if you want to extend its shelf life. Portion out servings in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above, being mindful that freezing can alter the texture slightly, particularly of the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This hash is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways. For breakfast, top with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness. The runny yolk creates a delightful sauce that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.

For a fresh garnish, consider adding chopped parsley, scallions, or even avocado slices for a creamy contrast. You could also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy element that complements the savory notes of the dish.

If you’re looking to turn this hash into a full meal, pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors. It adapts well to various cuisines as well; try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the hash and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as alternatives.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Portion it out in containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Any vegetables you enjoy would work well, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.