This Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef dish is a wonderful mix of flavors! It combines tasty beef with creamy cottage cheese and sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.
I love how colorful and filling it is—perfect for a cozy dinner! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Who wouldn’t want a tasty plate like this? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you’re short on sweet potatoes, you can substitute with regular potatoes or even butternut squash, though the flavor will change slightly.
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds richness to the dish. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Cottage Cheese: This makes the dish creamy and adds protein. If you’re lactose intolerant, opt for lactose-free cottage cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a different texture but similar taste.
Spices: Paprika adds flavor and color. You can replace it with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or use cumin for a different spice profile. Don’t skip the garlic; it adds a nice aroma!
How Do I Cook Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Cooked sweet potatoes should be tender and easy to mash. Start by peeling and dicing them into even pieces for consistent cooking. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them well to remove excess water before mashing to avoid a watery mix.
- Check tenderness with a fork; they should break apart easily.
- Add in butter or a splash of milk while mashing for extra creaminess, if desired.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
For Seasoning:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes for preparing and cooking the sweet potatoes and another 15 minutes for cooking the beef and combining all the ingredients. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and diced sweet potatoes into a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain the water and set the potatoes aside.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes into a bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps. You can add a little butter or milk if you’d like them creamier! Set the mashed sweet potatoes aside for later.
3. Cook the Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until they become soft. Next, add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder (if you’re using it). Continue cooking the beef for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure it’s no longer pink.
5. Serve:
To serve, take a scoop of the mashed sweet potatoes and place it in a bowl. Top it generously with the seasoned ground beef. Then, add a spoonful of cottage cheese right on top.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and, if you like, a sprinkle of extra paprika or chili powder for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and nutritious meal!
This recipe beautifully combines the sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with savory beef and the creamy richness of cottage cheese, making it a delightful dish for everyone!
Can I Use Different Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep the sweet potatoes from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and cooked beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat both components and assemble with cottage cheese just before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’d like to serve it with something, consider a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra cottage cheese and sauce!