Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake! It brings together the savory richness of beef with the natural sweetness of tender potatoes, creating a comforting dish that my family always enjoys. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a meal prep idea for the week, this recipe has become a go-to in our kitchen. I appreciate how easy it is to throw together, and it doesn't require complex ingredients. Just wholesome flavors cooked to perfection!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:57:36.346Z

When I decided to experiment with using sweet potatoes in place of traditional starches, I was thrilled with the results! The sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the savory, seasoned ground beef, making each bite a delightful experience. I found that baking the dish really brings all the flavors together beautifully.

One tip I learned is to layer the sweet potatoes and meat in a way that allows for even cooking and flavor blending. Covering the dish in the oven during the first half of the cook time helps everything to steam properly, ensuring the sweet potatoes get tender and absorb all the delicious juices from the beef.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory beef perfectly contrasted with sweet potatoes
Simple preparation makes it a weeknight favorite
Comfort food that’s packed with nutrients

Perfectly Layered Flavors

The key to achieving a harmonious blend of flavors lies in how you layer the ingredients. Starting with the sweet potatoes at the bottom not only adds a hearty base but also allows the natural sweetness to caramelize during baking, enhancing the overall taste. Make sure the sweet potatoes are cut into even-sized cubes to ensure uniform cooking. If you prefer, you can also par-cook the sweet potatoes for 5-7 minutes in boiling water to speed up the baking process.

The seasoned ground beef adds a savory depth that beautifully contrasts with the sweet potatoes. After browning the beef with onions and garlic, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra umami kick. This small addition can elevate the flavor profile significantly. As you cook, make sure to break up the beef into small pieces to ensure that they distribute evenly across the sweet potatoes.

Cheese Choices and Melting Techniques

Choosing the right cheese can make a significant difference in your bake. Cheddar lends a sharpness that complements the sweet notes of the potatoes, while mozzarella offers a gooey, stretchy texture. Feel free to experiment with combinations; for instance, a blend of both cheeses can create a well-rounded flavor. A tip from my kitchen: grate the cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and avoids the anti-caking agents that impede smooth melting.

When you uncover the bake to add cheese, keep a close eye on the melting process. Bake it until the cheese bubbles and turns a light golden brown, about 10 minutes. If the cheese isn't melting as desired, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to burn the top. Keep the oven door slightly ajar while broiling to monitor it closely.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can fully assemble it beforehand and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. This way, the flavors meld even more, improving the dish's taste. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil to prevent any drying out. If you want to prepare it for freezing, it’s best to do so before added cheese. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When it's time to reheat your bake, if frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it uncovered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes. If you want to refresh the cheese topping, add a little more cheese in the last few minutes of reheating for that freshly melted experience. This dish tastes just as good reheated as it does fresh, making it perfect for busy nights!

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 pound ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to wash and peel the sweet potatoes before dicing them for an even cook.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart and browning it until fully cooked. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

In a baking dish, layer the diced sweet potatoes evenly at the bottom. Pour the cooked beef mixture over the sweet potatoes, spreading it out evenly.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your wholesome bake!

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating diced jalapeños or chili powder into the beef mixture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake, consider serving it alongside a green salad or steamed veggies for added freshness. A side of tangy yogurt or sour cream can also balance the richness of the dish, adding a creamy texture that complements the flavors beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving; they add a burst of color and freshness.

You might also want to explore how different spices can alter the flavor profile of your bake. If you're a fan of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during the beef cooking stage can provide a nice kick. On the other hand, herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic twist that pairs well with the meat.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, lean turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef without sacrificing flavor. Just remember, if you're using a leaner meat, you might need to add a touch more olive oil for moisture. Additionally, if sweet potatoes aren’t available, butternut squash or even regular potatoes can serve as great substitutes, contributing their own unique flavor.

For a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms or lentils instead of ground beef. Cook the mushrooms until they are browned and have released their moisture for the best texture. Adding black beans along with spices like cumin can also enrich the dish while providing a protein boost, perfect for a filling, plant-based meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad or steamed vegetables would pair well with the bake.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.