When it comes to comfort food, few combinations can rival the classic pairing of ground beef and sweet potatoes. The rich flavor of the beef pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making them a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick weeknight dinner, these two ingredients are a versatile duo that can be used in countless recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious ground beef and sweet potato recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic shepherd’s pie to spicy tacos and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to get cooking!
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and sweet potatoes with the classic shepherd’s pie, perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal prep time and a delicious result, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. In a separate pot, boil diced sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer cooked beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by the mashed sweet potatoes.
5. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful combination of spicy ground beef and roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet spicy taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sweet potato to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle the spicy taco seasoning over the mixture and stir to combine.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble the tacos with the spicy ground beef mixture, shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines ground beef with sweet potatoes and a hint of spices for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Stuffed with Ground Beef and Cheese
This comforting dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of ground beef and melted cheese, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with the ground beef mixture, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top of the filling.
7. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, sweet potatoes, and savory spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, frozen peas and carrots, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and milk.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and add the cooked ground beef mixture. Top with the cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of ground beef, creating a deliciously comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your choice of jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet
A simple and satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines ground beef, sweet potatoes, and spices for a flavorful and filling dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Empanadas
A twist on traditional empanadas, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and ground beef with a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mashed sweet potatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles or rectangles for empanada shapes.
6. Place a spoonful of the beef and sweet potato mixture onto one half of each circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Fold the other half over the filling; press edges to seal.
8. Fry empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the addition of sweet potatoes! This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, sweet potatoes, and herbs to create a deliciously unique dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of ground beef, all in one quick and easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sliced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Burgers
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Burgers: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite!
These hearty burgers combine the richness of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional patties.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking oil or non-stick spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired burger size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Brush grill or grill pan with cooking oil or non-stick spray. Cook burgers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your liking.
5. Serve on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet potatoes, savory ground beef, and aromatic spices. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a satisfying meal for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced sweet potato, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Lasagna
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines ground beef and roasted sweet potatoes with layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sweet potatoes according to package instructions until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
7. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet potatoes, ground beef, and bell peppers to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked mixture, followed by mashed sweet potato.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Curry
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional curry, this recipe combines ground beef with sweet potatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices for a hearty and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve curry over cooked sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a twist on traditional breakfast scrambles by incorporating sweet potatoes and ground beef into this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil diced sweet potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked ground beef mixture with sweet potatoes and pour egg mixture over top.
7. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until eggs are set (about 5-7 minutes).
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Enchiladas
Get ready to spice up your dinner with these flavorful enchiladas! This recipe combines the savory taste of ground beef, sweet potatoes, and cheese wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic and cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the beef mixture onto a tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Sprinkle with cheese.
5. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with additional shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Quesadillas
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Quesadillas: A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of ground beef.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, cooked and diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
- Salsa and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Mix in the diced sweet potato and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay a tortilla flat, then sprinkle shredded cheese on half of it. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture onto the cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook in the skillet for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Repeat with remaining ingredients, serving warm with salsa and sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Pie
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and sweet potatoes with a flaky pie crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mashed sweet potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the ground beef mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Pasta Bake
A hearty and comforting pasta dish that combines sweet potatoes with ground beef and a blend of savory spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sweet potato, and meat sauce mixture.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering recipes featuring ground beef and sweet potatoes! From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and casseroles, to international twists like tacos, empanadas, and curry, there’s something for every occasion. Try stuffing sweet potatoes with cheese and ground beef, or mixing them into a hearty hash. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick skillet dinner or a show-stopping lasagna, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
