Name: Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste; 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean); 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon olive oil (for sautéing); ½ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

I’m always looking for ways to keep my meals balanced without giving up bold flavor, and this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl has become one of my favorite go-to options. It’s hearty, nutrient-packed, and absolutely satisfying in every bite. From the warm spices hugging the beef, to the sweet, tender chunks of roasted sweet potatoes, to the creamy tang of yogurt on top—every element plays its part in making this a bowl worth craving.

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What I really love about this power bowl is its flexibility. I can prep it in advance for lunch, toss in any veggies I have on hand, and it always comes out delicious. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and easily adjustable for different dietary needs. Whether you’re eating clean, looking for a comforting dinner, or just want a wholesome way to fuel your day—this bowl checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl

This bowl delivers a perfect balance of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats, making it ideal for post-workout meals or a cozy weeknight dinner. The sweet potatoes bring a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky, seasoned beef. Add in crisp green bell peppers and a dollop of Greek yogurt, and you’ve got layers of flavor and texture in one satisfying bowl. It’s colorful, crave-worthy, and packs a nutritious punch.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

I recommend using lean ground beef—something around 85% lean, 15% fat. It gives you just enough richness to bring great flavor without being overly greasy. If you prefer something even leaner, you can go with 90/10, but be sure to season well to keep things bold and juicy. On the other hand, if you’re looking for maximum indulgence, an 80/20 blend will work beautifully too—just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.

Options for Substitutions

You can totally customize this bowl to match your pantry or preferences. Here are some easy swaps:

Ground turkey or chicken: A leaner alternative to beef that still works perfectly with the seasoning blend.
Sweet potatoes: Try butternut squash or even roasted carrots if that’s what you have on hand.
Greek yogurt: Swap it for sour cream, cashew cream, or a dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Green bell peppers: Any bell pepper color works, or go for zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for a twist.
Spices: Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder—or even a dash of cayenne if you want some kick.

Make it yours. This bowl doesn’t mind bending a little!

Ingredients for this Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl

Ground Beef
This is the hearty base of the bowl. It brings rich flavor and satisfying protein to keep you full longer.

Sweet Potatoes
Naturally sweet and loaded with fiber, these roasted cubes balance out the savory elements beautifully.

Green Bell Peppers
They add a nice crunch and freshness, giving the bowl a pop of color and texture.

Greek Yogurt
Creamy, tangy, and protein-rich, yogurt makes a perfect cool contrast to the warm spices in the bowl.

Olive Oil
Used for roasting the sweet potatoes and sautéing the peppers—adds flavor and helps everything cook evenly.

Spices (Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Cumin, Chili Powder, Salt, Pepper)
These seasonings are essential to build depth and warmth in the ground beef and vegetables.

Fresh Cilantro
Sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens up every bite.

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cumin. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it browns. Once it starts to cook through, add garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook until fully browned and fragrant. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Peppers

In a separate skillet (or the same one after beef is cooked), heat a little olive oil and add diced green bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened and charred in spots, but still crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Start by layering the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked ground beef, and sautéed peppers in a bowl. Top it all off with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro.

How Long to Cook the Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl

The total cooking time for this recipe is around 35–40 minutes:

Sweet Potatoes: 25–30 minutes to roast at 400°F (200°C)
Ground Beef: 8–10 minutes to brown and season
Bell Peppers: 4–5 minutes to sauté
Assembly: Just a couple of minutes once everything is ready

If you multitask—roast the sweet potatoes while the beef cooks—this meal comes together pretty quickly.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl

Dice evenly: Cutting your sweet potatoes into uniform cubes ensures they roast evenly and caramelize perfectly.
Season in layers: Season your beef and vegetables individually while cooking to build depth in flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When roasting or sautéing, give everything space to crisp up instead of steaming.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt: It’s creamier, more flavorful, and adds a satisfying contrast to the warm spices.
Add heat if you like: A pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce can kick this bowl up a notch if you like spice.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Undercooking the Sweet Potatoes: If they’re not fully roasted, they’ll taste starchy instead of sweet and caramelized. Make sure they’re fork-tender and slightly crisp on the edges.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Spacing the sweet potatoes out helps them roast, not steam.
Not Draining Excess Beef Fat: If your beef has higher fat content, drain off the grease so the bowl doesn’t become greasy or heavy.
Skipping Seasoning: Bland ground beef will drag the whole dish down. Don’t be shy with your spices.
Using Cold Yogurt: Let the yogurt sit out for a few minutes before serving to avoid a temperature shock in your bowl.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl?

Hummus and Pita Chips

Creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips makes a tasty side or starter that complements the bowl’s bold spices.

Avocado Slices or Guacamole

Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and a buttery texture—great with the yogurt and beef.

Lemon-Garlic Quinoa

A citrusy quinoa salad adds extra protein and a refreshing zing.

Simple Arugula Salad

Light and peppery greens tossed in olive oil and lemon juice pair well without overpowering.

Pickled Onions

Their tangy crunch brings balance to the rich flavors in the bowl.

Grilled Corn or Elote

Sweet, smoky corn rounds out the meal with a touch of summer flavor.

Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower

Great for bulking up the veggie content and soaking up all the juices from the bowl.

Spicy Black Beans

A protein-packed side that enhances the bowl’s Southwestern vibes.

Storage Instructions

This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl is excellent for meal prep and stores really well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the components in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the yogurt separate and add it just before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze the cooked ground beef and roasted sweet potatoes for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat and assemble.
Reheating: Use a skillet or microwave to warm the beef and sweet potatoes. Add fresh toppings like yogurt and herbs after heating to keep them fresh and bright.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving – approx. 1 bowl)

Calories: 460
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 420mg

These numbers are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portions you use, especially toppings and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this bowl vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. Season them well to keep that bold flavor.

Can I make this bowl dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative like almond or coconut yogurt, or drizzle with tahini or avocado crema instead.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up beautifully for 3–4 days in the fridge. Just store components separately if you want to keep textures fresh.

Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

You can! The flavor profile changes slightly, but roasted white or red potatoes will still taste great with the beef and spices.

What kind of spices go well with this dish?

Smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder are my go-tos. You can also add a bit of oregano, coriander, or cayenne for variation.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any sauces or spice blends for hidden gluten if you’re sensitive.

Can I eat this cold or room temperature?

You can, especially if it’s packed for lunch. It tastes best warm, but the flavors still hold up cold if needed.

Can I add a sauce or dressing to this bowl?

Sure! A tahini drizzle, chipotle mayo, or cilantro-lime dressing would be amazing over the top if you want more richness or tang.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Power Bowl brings together all the things I love in a meal—comfort, flavor, and nutrition. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight, but delicious enough to crave again and again. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, meal-prepping lunches, or feeding a family, this bowl delivers on all fronts. Adapt it to your taste, spice it up or down, and enjoy a nourishing, satisfying dish that checks every box.