When the craving for comfort food hits, there’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of a One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash wafting through the kitchen. This dish is my go-to for those busy weeknights when I need something nourishing yet effortless. Imagine the warm, sweet notes of caramelized sweet potatoes mingling with savory ground beef and vibrant bell peppers, all cooked together in one skillet.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility — you can whip it up for breakfast when topped with a sunny-side-up egg, or make it a hearty lunch alongside a fresh salad. Plus, it uses whole foods packed with nutrition, ensuring each bite is not only delicious but wholesome. Whether you’re growing tired of takeout or just need a quick, satisfying meal, this vibrant hash is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to create a delightful meal that warms both the heart and the belly!
Why is One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This one-pan wonder saves you time on cleanup, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with whole foods, it offers essential vitamins and proteins.
Versatile dish: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner — it fits any meal occasion!
Flavor explosion: The harmony of sweet potatoes and spices creates an irresistible taste.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Everyone at the table will love this colorful and hearty dish!
Quick preparation: In just about 30 minutes, a wholesome, satisfying dinner is ready to serve!
One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need for this nutritious one-pan dinner!
For the Hash
- Ground Beef – Use lean beef for a healthier option that still delivers that hearty flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes – This key ingredient adds natural sweetness and essential vitamins; regular potatoes can be a tasty substitute.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds both sweetness and vibrant color to the dish; feel free to swap with green bell pepper if that’s what you have.
- Green Bell Pepper – Introduces a fresh crunch and slight bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- Onion – Opt for yellow or white onions for a deeper flavor when caramelized.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic adds depth, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (1/8 tsp per clove).
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; substitute with canola or avocado oil if preferred.
- Smoked Paprika – This ingredient gives a warm, smoky flavor that’s essential for the perfect One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash; regular paprika can be used as a substitute if you don’t have any.
- Ground Cumin – Provides earthy depth to the dish; no substitutes required.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Fresh Parsley – A lovely garnish that can be omitted if you’re short on herbs.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers – Store any uneaten hash in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring your delicious creation can be enjoyed again!
How to Make One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This allows for the perfect sauté environment and helps fuse the flavors together beautifully.
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Cook diced sweet potatoes for 10-15 minutes until tender and slightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to achieve that lovely caramelization.
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Remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and set them aside. This ensures they won’t become mushy when you combine them back in later.
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Brown the ground beef in the skillet, adding the remaining olive oil if needed. Break it apart as it cooks, allowing it to achieve a savory, juicy texture. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. This aroma will have your mouth watering in no time!
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Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet and add smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Each of these spices builds layers of flavor.
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Mix thoroughly and cook for another 5 minutes to combine flavors. This step lets all the ingredients meld beautifully for a satisfying hash.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. A sprinkle of green adds a lovely finish that brightens the entire dish.
Optional: For a burst of flavor, drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish truly your own!
- Dairy-Free: Replace any cheese or topping with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a plant-based meal that’s still hearty and satisfying.
- Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy twist that will warm your palate.
- Flavor Boost: Toss in fresh cumin or coriander for an aromatic lift, enhancing depth without adding extra work.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in diced zucchini or mushrooms for an added layer of texture and nutrition, making your hash even more colorful.
- Sweet Twist: Incorporate diced apples or pears for a surprising sweet note that complements sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Smoky Variation: Use chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika for a rich, smoky flavor with a bit of heat.
- Breakfast Style: Top with a fried or poached egg for a breakfast-inspired version that’s perfect any time of day.
With these variations, you’ll never tire of this delicious dish!
What to Serve with One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash?
Bring your dining experience to life with perfect pairings that enhance the hearty flavors of your hash.
- Sunny-Side-Up Eggs: A classic pairing, the runny yolk adds richness and elevates your dish to breakfast bliss.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the warmth of the hash and adds a refreshing crunch.
- Sautéed Spinach: The earthiness of spinach complements the hash while packing extra nutrition. Toss it together with garlic for an extra punch!
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the savory components of the dish.
- Refreshing Lemonade: A zesty lemonade offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the beef and sweet potatoes.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bite, turning your meal into a cozy feast.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a delightful crispiness and slight bitterness that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Fruit Compote: A sweet fruit compote provides a unique twist, balancing flavors and adding a touch of sweetness that brightens the meal.
Make Ahead Options
This One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash is a fantastic meal prep option! You can chop the sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and onion up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef in the skillet before adding the vegetables, followed by the sweet potatoes and spices. This ensures that your dish is just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash
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Consistent Cuts: Ensure sweet potatoes are diced evenly to avoid mushiness. This promotes even cooking for delightful textural contrast in your One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash.
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Right Pan Choice: Use a cast iron skillet for excellent heat retention. It delivers a beautifully seared, flavorful finish to the beef and veggies.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime when serving for a zesty kick. It can transform your One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash into an extraordinary dish.
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Cook in Batches: If you have a lot of beef, cook it in smaller batches to achieve a good sear without steaming. This step enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Extra Greens: For a nutrient boost, toss in spinach or kale toward the end of cooking. This tip adds color and health benefits without much prep time.
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hash in individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
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Quality Check: Always check for any off smells or discoloration before serving leftovers. Enjoy your nutritious One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash for days!
One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash Recipe FAQs
What type of sweet potatoes should I use for the One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash?
For the best results, I recommend using firm, glossy sweet potatoes without any dark spots. The sweeter the potato, the better! If you prefer, you can substitute with regular potatoes, but the flavor will be different.
How should I store leftovers of the One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the potato’s texture and flavor intact.
Can I freeze the One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash for later?
Absolutely! For freezing, portion the hash into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.
What if my sweet potatoes become mushy during cooking?
To prevent mushy sweet potatoes, make sure to cut them into even-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that lovely exterior while staying tender inside. If they do turn out mushy, try adding fresh veggies (like spinach or kale) for added texture next time!
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with gluten allergies?
Yes, the One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients are whole and gluten-free friendly, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten. Just be cautious if using any pre-packaged spices or flavorings.
One Pan Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook diced sweet potatoes for 10-15 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
- Brown the ground beef in the skillet, adding the remaining olive oil if needed.
- Stir in diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet and add smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.