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 for better flavor and moisture); 4 tbsp olive oil (preferably California Olive Ranch); 1 3/4 tsp salt (Morton Kosher salt recommended); 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 (I prefer California Olive Ranch for its flavor)

1 large sweet potato (diced into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking)

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend gives much better flavor and moisture)

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 (Morton Kosher salt recommended)

1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

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: Dice the sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Finely chop the yellow onion and green bell pepper into 1/4-inch pieces, and mince the garlic cloves. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes for the spice blend. Set all prepared ingredients aside.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust. Break up the beef with a spoon and continue cooking until no pink remains and the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes total. Drain excess grease, leaving just enough to coat the pan.

Step 3: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan with the beef. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and aromatic. Push the vegetables to the side, add minced garlic to the empty space, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning the garlic.

Step 4: Add the diced sweet potato cubes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle the prepared spice blend evenly over the mixture and stir well to coat all ingredients. The spices will toast slightly as they cook, enhancing their flavors.

Step 5: Lower the heat to medium and cook the hash for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and lightly caramelized on the edges. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you stir for extra flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for the best flavor and moisture balance.

For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving.

Swap the green bell pepper for red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter note.

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

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted, but cooking times and moisture levels may vary. Ground beef adds richness and helps keep the dish juicy.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño along with the bell pepper for extra heat. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side.