Flavor-Packed Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef: Your New Family Favorite
There’s something almost magical about the aroma of a sizzling skillet on a busy weeknight, and I can tell you, this Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is nothing short of enchanting. One chilly evening while preparing dinner, I stumbled upon this vibrant dish, and it transported me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. As I diced sweet potatoes and sautéed bell peppers, I could practically hear my grandmother’s voice, reminding me that comfort food doesn’t just satisfy the belly—it warms the soul.
What makes this Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash different from your run-of-the-mill recipes? For starters, the combination of earthy sweet potatoes, savory ground beef, and robust spices creates a flavor explosion that’s unmatched. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that saves on cleanup and mindless meal prep. It’s healthy, filling, and the kind of dish you want to share with your loved ones.
In this recipe, I’ll walk you through how to create this deliciously satisfying dish that you’ll want to whip up again and again. Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with something comforting that’ll have your family begging for seconds!
What Are Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef?
Tex-Mex cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, and this Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is a perfect embodiment of that. Originating from the southwestern United States, Tex-Mex food intertwines Mexican flavors with American favorites, creating a unique culinary experience. This hash features sweet potatoes—nutritious, subtly sweet, and packed with fiber—combined with savory ground beef and black beans, making it a beautifully balanced meal.
The texture is a delightful mix of tender sweet potatoes, juicy beef, and hearty beans, coated in a medley of spices that dance on your taste buds. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is also incredibly versatile. Whether you need a quick weekday meal or a comforting brunch dish, this sweet potato hash fits the bill effortlessly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika transforms basic ingredients into a fiesta on your plate. Say goodbye to bland meals!
Cost-Effective: Using budget-friendly ingredients, you get a delicious and filling meal that won’t break the bank—if you’ve ever had to rely on takeout, you know this is a lifesaver.
Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños for heat or throw in some veggies you need to clear out of your fridge. The beauty of this hash lies in its adaptability.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to spare.
Healthy Comfort Food: With sweet potatoes loaded with vitamins and minerals, black beans packed with protein, and lean ground beef, you can indulge knows it’s nourishing.
When you stack it against store-bought or restaurant versions, there’s no competition. Homemade is where the heart is—and this hash begs for a place at your family table!
Ingredients Section
To whip up your delicious Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef, you will need the following ingredients, organized by order of use:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor and health benefits; if needed, avocado oil is a great substitute.
- 1 onion, diced: Sweet onions work beautifully, but feel free to use yellow or red as well.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Colorful bell peppers add sweetness—choose red, yellow, or green for your preference.
- 1 pound ground beef: I prefer 80/20 for optimal flavor and juiciness; feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 2 large sweet potatoes, diced: Fresh sweet potatoes are essential here—they’re sweeter and more nutritious than frozen versions.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed: Canned black beans add protein and fiber; look for low-sodium options or cook dried beans for an even healthier choice.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: This warm spice adds a rich, earthy flavor that’s integral to Tex-Mex cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: For that subtle heat, adjust to your personal taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika creates depth in flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking; high-quality sea salt can enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Not just for looks, fresh cilantro adds a refreshing burst that brightens the dish.
Prep Notes
- Allow your ingredients, especially the sweet potatoes and onion, to come to room temperature before starting for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. This will take about 1-2 minutes.
Sauté the onion and bell pepper: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened—stir occasionally until fragrant.
Brown the ground beef: Increase heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and break it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned. Look for those lovely morsels; they mean flavor!
Add sweet potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and reduce heat to medium. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften—opt for tender cubes that retain a bit of texture.
Mix in black beans and spices: Add the drained black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through and the sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy.
Garnish & serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm straight from the skillet, and watch your family flock to the table!
Chef’s Tips:
- Timing check: If your sweet potatoes are taking longer to soften, you can add a splash of water and cover the skillet for a few minutes.
- Avoiding mushy potatoes: The key is to cut them evenly. Go for 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking and a nice bite!
Expert Tips & Tricks
Storage: Store leftover Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Make-ahead: You can prepare the hash up to a day in advance. Cook, let cool, and refrigerate! Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.
Use frozen veggies: In a pinch, frozen diced bell peppers and onions work great, saving prep time.
Troubleshooting: If the sweet potatoes are cooking too slowly, try covering the skillet with a lid to steam them briefly.
Multifunctional: Use this hash for breakfast by serving it with scrambled eggs on top, or for lunch as a wrap filling!
Serving Suggestions
This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash pairs beautifully with a zesty avocado salad or a dollop of guacamole on the side. For a more indulgent touch, serve with sunny-side-up eggs perched on top, drizzled with hot sauce for that extra kick. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers, brunches, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
When presenting, consider garnishing with lime wedges and extra cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Brighten up your table setting with colorful plates that highlight the vibrant dish!
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this hash! Here are some variations to consider:
Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery version.
Seasonal adjustments: In fall, add shredded Brussels sprouts or kale. In spring, consider fresh asparagus for a bright twist.
Protein options: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option, or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
Take it international: For a Mediterranean twist, try Feta cheese and a sprinkle of garlic powder, or switch up spices for an Italian flair!
Nutrition & Storage Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the fridge for up to 4 days. This hash also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave!
FAQ Section
Can I make this hash vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the amount of black beans or add vegetables of your choice.What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
You can use regular potatoes, but you’ll want to adjust cooking times as they take longer than sweet potatoes.How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to avoid sticking.Is this hash freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.Can I use different beans?
Yes! Feel free to swap in pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a twist.How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is moderate due to the chili powder. Adjust accordingly by adding more or less spice to your taste.How do I make this dish more filling?
Serve it with eggs on top or in a tortilla to make it a wrap!Can I use ground sausage instead of beef?
Yes! Ground sausage will add a fabulous flavor but may require less seasoning depending on its spices.What if I can’t find fresh ingredients?
Frozen peppers and onions are great substitutes and can save prep time.Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Make the hash a day before and reheat when you’re ready to serve—flavors will deepen!
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef is not just another recipe; it’s an experience that evokes memories of family dinners and shared laughter. With its ease of preparation and filling nature, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home, just as it has in mine.
I encourage you to try it—your family will thank you! Drop a note in the comments about how it went or if you made any tasty tweaks. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other comforting family favorites on the blog, like my Savory Chili or Sweet Spicy Cornbread!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin olive oil; can substitute with avocado oil.
- 1 cup onion, diced Sweet onions preferred; yellow or red are also good.
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced Choose any color (red, yellow, green).
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 preferred for flavor; can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 2 large sweet potatoes, diced Fresh is preferred for sweetness and nutrition.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed Low-sodium options recommended.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon cumin Integral for Tex-Mex flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to personal taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika Sweet or smoked paprika.
- to taste none salt and pepper Use high-quality sea salt for better flavor.
Garnish
- to taste none fresh cilantro Optional but adds freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until shimmering.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in diced sweet potatoes, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add drained black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through and sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.