Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 large sweet potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake on busy weeknights. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family enjoys. The combination of ground beef and sweet potatoes creates a delicious balance of flavors, making it a comforting choice for any day. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the leftovers are just as good, if not better! Let’s dive into this savory bake that is sure to become a regular in our meal rotation.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:37:36.041Z

When I first decided to combine ground beef with sweet potatoes, I was a bit skeptical about how the flavors would come together. However, after the first bite, I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious medley of savory and sweet. I often add spices like paprika and garlic to elevate the taste, and it makes a world of difference.

This dish has become a staple in our household not only because it’s simple to make but also because it’s incredibly nutritious. Incorporating a variety of vegetables boosts the meal's health benefits and keeps it colorful on the plate. I recommend trying it with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The sweet and savory combination is truly delightful.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
Packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a wholesome choice.

Understanding the Ingredients

The main stars of this bake are ground beef and sweet potatoes. Ground beef not only provides protein but also brings a rich, savory flavor to the dish. Opt for lean ground beef to keep it lighter, and be sure to break it up well while cooking to ensure it browns evenly. Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked beef.

Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and nutrition, packed with vitamins A and C. When dicing, aim for uniform pieces about 1-inch wide, which helps them cook evenly. If you prefer a quicker cooking time, consider parboiling them for 5 minutes before adding to the mixture. This also enhances their creaminess in the final bake.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When it comes to baking, the covered time and uncovered time are crucial. Covering the dish with aluminum foil traps steam, allowing the sweet potatoes to soften adequately. After 25 minutes, removing the foil promotes a golden, bubbly top. Keep an eye on the cheese if you decide to add it; remove it once it starts to turn a lovely golden color, which should take about 5 minutes. This ensures a pleasing texture contrast between the creamy potatoes and the melted cheese.

For a balanced flavor profile, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder. These can elevate the dish considerably, offering a warm heat that complements both the beef and the sweet potatoes. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your family's taste preferences—don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before baking to ensure it's seasoned just right.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake

1 lb ground beef
2 large sweet potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Feel free to customize the vegetables according to what you have on hand!

Steps

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Combine and Bake

In a large baking dish, combine the diced sweet potatoes, cooked beef mixture, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well mixed. Top with cheese if desired, then cover with aluminum foil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden.

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping the bake with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro before serving.

Leftover Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake make for a fantastic meal prep option. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely with a paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

If you want to store it longer, consider freezing portions. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven about 20-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake as a standalone dish for a hearty dinner. However, if you're looking to enhance the meal, pair it with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This balance of freshness will complement the rich flavors of the bake wonderfully. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon juice and olive oil for a peppery kick.

You can also customize the bake by adding different vegetables, such as zucchini or corn. These additions can not only boost the nutritional profile but also add a delightful variety of textures and flavors. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add more moisture-rich veggies, like zucchini, to ensure everything cooks evenly and doesn't become watery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make a great side dish!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.