Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Ideas

I love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake for dinner! It’s a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. The layer of cheese on top adds a delightful creaminess that ties everything together beautifully. What I find most appealing is how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals when time is limited. Plus, my family can't get enough of this wholesome goodness!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T08:01:36.134Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was intrigued by the combination of flavors. I decided to give it a shot, and it quickly became a staple in our household. The balance of savory beef paired with sweet potatoes is not only satisfying but also nutritious. One tip I found essential is to use freshly grated cheese; it melts better and enhances the flavor significantly!

After a busy day, there’s nothing quite like pulling this bake from the oven. The aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone's mouth water. I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving for that extra touch of flavor and freshness. This dish is truly a celebration of comfort food!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and fulfilling meal that satisfies hunger
Sweet and savory flavor combination that's incredibly tasty
Perfect for meal prep, easily reheatable for leftovers

The Importance of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not just a flavorful base; they provide essential nutrients that enhance this dish's health profile. Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and fiber, they contribute to a wholesome meal. Their natural sweetness balances the savory notes of the ground beef and spices, making each bite harmonious. Choose firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor, avoiding any that have soft spots or blemishes.

When you boil the sweet potatoes, aim for tenderness without overcooking them. They should be soft enough to mash but still hold their shape. This balance prevents them from becoming too watery, which can lead to a soggy layer in your bake. If you're looking for an alternative, butternut squash can also work well, offering similar sweetness and texture.

Layering for Flavor

The layering process is crucial for developing the dish's overall flavor and texture. Begin with a hearty layer of the cooked beef mixture; this base holds the moisture and richness of the dish. When spreading the mashed sweet potatoes, be sure not to compact them too much. Lightly fluff them with a fork for a lighter texture, which ensures they bake up creamy rather than dense.

Incorporating broth at this stage is essential for keeping the dish moist. Without it, the sweet potatoes can dry out during baking. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider substituting half of the beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 lb ground beef
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil

These ingredients work together to create a deliciously layered dish that is sure to impress!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft. Then, add ground beef, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

In a separate pot, boil diced sweet potatoes until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and mash lightly with a fork.

Combine Ingredients

In a baking dish, layer the cooked beef mixture at the bottom. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes over the beef, then pour in the beef broth for extra moisture.

Add Cheese and Bake

Top the sweet potato layer with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

This dish can be served with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bake can be a versatile main course. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, for a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans, which add a nice crunch and color.

For a family-style presentation, serve directly from the baking dish, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added pop of color. If you have leftovers, this dish reheats well; simply cover it in the oven until warmed through, or pop individual servings in the microwave for a quick meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This bake is ideal for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and adjust your cooking time since it will start off cold. Expect it to take about 10 minutes longer than the original bake time to ensure it's heated through.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, I recommend doing so before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's hot and bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute and will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would complement this bake nicely.