Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Introduction

Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone loves. This dish combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with family.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks. The combination of spiced ground beef and creamy sweet potatoes offers a great balance of flavors and nutrients. Plus, it is a comforting dish that can warm you up on a chilly day. If you’re looking for something flavorful yet simple, this recipe is a winner!

How to Make Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter or olive oil for mashing
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes with butter or olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
In a skillet, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
Add the ground beef, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef until it is browned and fully cooked through.
Serve the spiced ground beef over the mashed sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes

You can serve this dish warm right from the stove. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes serve as a perfect base for the flavorful spiced beef on top.

How to Store Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze the mashed sweet potatoes separately from the beef for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream to the mashed sweet potatoes.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
If you want to make this dish a little healthier, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Variation

You can modify this recipe by adding different vegetables to the beef mix, such as bell peppers or carrots. You could also try using different spices, like chili powder or oregano, for a new flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the flavor will be different. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs well with the spiced beef.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth to cook the sweet potatoes for added flavor.

3. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mix for an extra kick.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Spiced Ground Beef & Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe with your friends and family!