Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Hash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty Collection

I have fallen in love with this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash recipe! It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors that comes together in a hearty dish. I often whip it up for breakfast or brunch, and the best part is how quickly it comes together—just 30 minutes from start to finish. The sweet potatoes add a wonderful creaminess while the ground beef provides protein to keep us full. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe is definitely one to try!

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:09:36.033Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended. The slightly caramelized sweet potatoes complement the savory beef perfectly, creating a dish that's both comforting and nutritious. I experimented with various spices, and I found that simply using garlic powder and paprika really elevates the taste without overpowering the main ingredients.

This dish not only tastes great but also offers a wonderful texture contrast—the crunch of bell peppers against the creamy sweet potatoes is delightful. I usually serve it with a fried egg on top, adding creaminess and richness that takes it to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Savory ground beef pairs wonderfully with sweet, tender potatoes
Quick to make, perfect for busy mornings or a hearty dinner
Versatile dish that can be customized with any favorite veggies or spices

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only the star ingredient in this hash, but they also play a pivotal role in balancing flavors and textures. Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of the ground beef, creating a harmonious dish. When diced and sautéed, sweet potatoes soften beautifully, adding a creamy consistency that contrasts nicely with the firmer vegetables like bell pepper and onion. Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking, which should take about 10 minutes on medium heat until they're fork-tender.

The color of sweet potatoes can also enhance the dish's visual appeal, making the meal more enticing. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. If you want to experiment, trying different varieties such as purple or Japanese sweet potatoes can add a unique flavor profile and vibrant color to your hash, while also providing additional nutrients.

Customization Ideas

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is highly customizable, allowing you to switch things up based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. For a touch of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you're a fan of fresh herbs, mix in some chopped parsley or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness. You can also substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

If you'd like to pack in more veggies, zucchini, kale, or spinach can be delicious additions. Just remember that they will cook down significantly, so you might want to add them after the sweet potatoes have softened a bit to prevent them from becoming overly mushy. The flexibility of this dish makes it perfect for using up leftover vegetables, ensuring nothing goes to waste while creating a nutritious meal.

Ingredients

For the Hash

1 lb ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Toppings

Fried eggs
Chopped parsley
Hot sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

Cook the Beef

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the empty space. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir everything together.

Add Seasoning

Add the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to crisp up slightly.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with a fried egg if desired, and enjoy your meal!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef. You can also swap in other vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, based on what you have on hand.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time during the week, you can prepare components of this hash in advance. For instance, peel and dice the sweet potatoes and vegetables the night before, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. This preparation can cut your cooking time down to just 15 minutes in the morning. You can also go a step further by cooking the beef in advance. Just cool it completely before storing in the fridge, ensuring it doesn’t spoil and making reheating a breeze.

To reheat, simply warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to ensure the dish doesn’t dry out. Stir it occasionally and, if you have extra eggs, fry them fresh to top off each serving for a satisfying finish. This strategy is particularly helpful for busy breakfast days, making this dish a quick go-to.

Serving Suggestions

While this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is delicious on its own, adding a few toppings can elevate the meal further. A fried egg on top is a classic choice, adding creaminess and richness. Consider adding a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha to give it an extra kick. You could also sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or avocado slices for additional creaminess and a flavor boost.

For a heartier dinner option, serve this hash alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the savory elements of the dish perfectly, making it a well-rounded meal. If you're looking for a grain to add, serving it with quinoa or brown rice on the side can make it even more filling, providing additional nutrients and flavor variety.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes work as a great alternative, but they may take slightly longer to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this with?

This hash is delicious on its own but pairs excellently with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.