This Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef dish is a tasty and colorful meal that combines creamy cottage cheese, sweet potatoes, and juicy beef. It’s packed with flavors that make dinner fun!
I love how satisfying this dish is! The creamy cottage cheese pairs so well with the sweet potatoes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies without anyone noticing! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness and creamy texture. If you’re short on sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, though the flavor will change a bit.
Beef: For this recipe, beef sirloin or stew meat works great. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. Tofu can also be used for a vegetarian twist, but it will need different seasoning.
Cottage Cheese: The creamy texture is essential! If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can try Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese—just keep in mind they may give a slightly different flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cumin could work, too. For some added heat, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in chili powder or cayenne.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting sweet potatoes perfectly brings out their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes.
- Toss with olive oil and seasonings before roasting. This helps them caramelize well.
- Use a baking sheet that allows enough space between potato pieces, so they roast rather than steam.
- Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark. Once they’re fork-tender and lightly browned, they’re ready to go!
Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: chili powder or cayenne pepper for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. In total, this dish takes around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Make sure they are coated evenly! Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, grab the beef and season it. In a bowl, mix the beef pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and the remaining smoked paprika. This will add wonderful flavor to the meat! In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned beef and sear it until browned and cooked to your liking, around 5-7 minutes. Then remove the skillet from heat.
3. Assemble Your Bowls:
When the sweet potatoes are done roasting, it’s time to put everything together! Take your serving bowls and fill them with a portion of the roasted sweet potatoes. Next, top them with the cooked beef. Finally, add a generous spoonful of cottage cheese on top—this adds creaminess and a bit of protein!
4. Garnish and Serve:
For the finishing touch, sprinkle sliced green onions over everything. If you like a little heat, feel free to add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper. Serve warm and enjoy this tasty, hearty, and protein-rich meal!
This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of beef and the creaminess of cottage cheese, making it a satisfying meal for everyone!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cottage cheese adds a nice creaminess, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or ricotta for a sweeter touch. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will slightly differ.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, you can use regular paprika or even a pinch of cumin for a warm flavor. If you enjoy heat, a bit of chili powder can also work well as a substitute.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the sweet potatoes and cook the beef in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the dish with cottage cheese just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep everything moist.
