Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef (40-Minutes)

This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is a savory, satisfying dish packed with flavors of the Southwest. It combines hearty sweet potatoes with seasoned ground beef, peppers, onions, and a blend of spices, making it a perfect one-pan meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal option for a busy weeknight. With a balance of protein, veggies, and comforting sweetness from the potatoes, this recipe is both filling and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is an all-around winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the dish. Secondly, the recipe is incredibly versatile, so you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you prefer more spice or a milder flavor, you can tweak the seasonings to your taste. The combination of sweet potatoes and ground beef provides a perfect balance of flavors, while the peppers and onions add freshness and crunch. This dish is also great for meal prepping—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

The ease of preparation combined with the hearty ingredients makes this dish a go-to option for busy days when you need something quick, nutritious, and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes
• Ground beef
• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Garlic
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes, about 1/2-inch in size. This will help them cook more evenly and quickly.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything to combine. Season with ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and starting to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Combine the Beef and Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, return the ground beef to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the hash with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or crumbled tempeh for a plant-based version. You can also add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
• Spicy Option: If you enjoy a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also top the dish with a spicy salsa or hot sauce to amp up the spice level.
• Cheesy Twist: For a cheesy variation, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the hash during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt over the sweet potatoes and beef.
• Breakfast Version: Add a fried egg on top of the hash for a protein-packed breakfast option. The runny yolk will blend beautifully with the savory flavors of the dish.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Serving Size: Serves 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the hash in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the leftovers for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes can be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes. However, sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the beef and spices, so the texture and flavor will be different.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the hash ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to eat, and it’ll still taste delicious.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash. Place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in a skillet or microwave.

4. How can I make the dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy chili powder for more heat.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes! For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or Mexican cheese blend over the hash during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt over the top.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients for any optional add-ins (like cheese or hot sauce).

7. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. It will change the flavor slightly, but it’s a great substitute if you prefer a lighter option.

8. Can I add more vegetables to the hash?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. The dish is very versatile, and extra vegetables will enhance its flavor and nutritional value.

9. Can I serve this dish with anything else?

This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash pairs wonderfully with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad. It also goes well with warm tortillas or crusty bread if you prefer a more filling meal.

10. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef for black beans, tempeh, or another plant-based protein. You can also add extra vegetables to replace the beef’s hearty texture.

Conclusion

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a healthy balance of nutrients. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in just 40 minutes!

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