Name: Easy Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large sweet potato, diced into 1/2-inch cubes; 3/4 yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1/4-inch pieces); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend); 4 tbsp olive oil (preferably California Olive Ranch); 1 3/4 tsp Morton Kosher salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 1/2 tsp chili powder; 3/4 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp oregano; 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Ingredients

4 tbsp olive oil

1 large sweet potato, diced into 1/2-inch cubes

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

3/4 yellow onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1/4-inch pieces)

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 3/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 tsp chili powder

3/4 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp oregano

1 pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare all your ingredients. Dice the sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking. Finely chop the yellow onion and green bell pepper into about 1/4-inch pieces, and mince the garlic cloves. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Having everything ready beforehand keeps the cooking process smooth and prevents burning the spices or aromatics.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a good crust, then break it up with a spoon and continue cooking until no pink remains and the meat is well browned, about 5-7 minutes total. Drain excess grease, leaving enough to coat the pan for sauteing the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan with the cooked beef. Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their aromas. Push the vegetables to the side, add the minced garlic to the clear space, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this method prevents garlic from burning while infusing the oil.

Step 4: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the mixture and stir well to coat all the ingredients. The spices will toast slightly in the heat, enhancing their flavor and aroma.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to medium and cook the hash, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes. Cook until the sweet potato cubes are tender when pierced with a fork and slightly caramelized on the edges. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan as you stir—they add great depth to the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Use smoked paprika exclusively if you prefer a deeper smoky flavor.

Add a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

FAQs

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just be sure any additional sauces or seasonings you use are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the vegetables and spice blend in advance. Cook the hash fully, then refrigerate. Reheat gently when ready to serve for a quick, delicious meal.