Heavenly Sweet Potato And Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

On a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty casserole to bring everyone together around the dinner table. The Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in food form, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. This recipe was inspired by the rich flavors of comfort food and the need for a nutritious yet simple dish that can feed a crowd without breaking a sweat.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its perfect balance between savory and sweet, with the tender sweet potatoes complementing the seasoned ground beef beautifully. With its easy preparation and robust flavors, this dish is not only a family favorite but also a wonderful option for meal prepping or gatherings. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delicious casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love the Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole. First and foremost, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze—always a major plus after a satisfying dinner. The layers of flavor and texture keep your taste buds engaged, while the beautiful presentation makes it perfect for serving guests. Plus, the combination of sweet potatoes and ground beef packs a nutritional punch, offering vitamins, minerals, and protein in every bite.

This casserole is versatile too! You can easily customize it to suit your dietary needs or personal tastes. Whether you want to add extra veggies, spice it up with some jalapeños, or even make it gluten-free, this recipe adapts well. And, best of all, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy—from kids to adults, all will want a second helping!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your own Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds): The star of the dish, sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and creaminess when baked.
• 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory element that makes this casserole filling and satisfying.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds depth of flavor and a savory base to the meat mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup beef broth: Helps to keep everything moist while cooking and adds additional savory notes.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little heat to complement the sweet potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a slight smokiness and beautiful color to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that complements both the beef and sweet potatoes perfectly.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella): Creates a deliciously cheesy top that pulls everything together.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, enhancing the flavor profile.

Optional Additions

If you want to personalize your casserole, consider these optional ingredients:

• Chopped bell peppers: Add color and sweetness.
• Jalapeños or red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick, these additions might be perfect, depending on your preference!
• Fresh spinach or kale: Mix in some greens for added nutrition.
• Beans: Black beans or kidney beans can be added for extra protein and fiber.

Special Garnishes

To elevate the presentation of your casserole, consider these garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle right before serving adds a burst of color.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top can add creaminess and a slight tang.
• Green onions: Chopped green onions introduce a fresh and crunchy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get started on preparing the Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole!

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine with sweet potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet, followed by the beef broth. Stir everything to combine well.
6. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish (or equivalent) for even baking.
7. Cheese it up: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
9. Let it rest: Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving your Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole is a breeze! It’s a complete meal in itself, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a full dining experience. The casserole can be served directly from the baking dish, and it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

For storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

Helpful Tips

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add any vegetables based on the season or what you have at home. Carrots, zucchini, or even butternut squash can work beautifully!
• Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your casserole mixture before baking. You can adjust the spices based on your preference, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, the Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole freezes well. Ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While sweet potatoes are perfect for this casserole, you could use regular white potatoes or even Yukon gold. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ somewhat, and cooking times might vary.

How do I know if the sweet potatoes are cooked through?

The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender when the casserole is finished baking. If they are still hard, cover the dish again and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

The Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that encourages connection, conversation, and culinary creativity. Its unique blend of flavors and satisfying texture makes it a standout dish that you and your loved ones will cherish. We hope this recipe inspires you to not only try it but also to make it your own with personal touches and adaptations. Share your experiences and variations in the comments, and let this casserole create more than just a meal—let it forge lasting memories around your table!

Heavenly Sweet Potato Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

Discover this heavenly Sweet Potato Ground Beef Casserole recipe thats easy to make and packed with flavor Perfect for family dinners

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)

1 pound ground beef

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)

Olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.

In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Increase heat to medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add diced sweet potatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbling.

Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• minutes: 5
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 400 calories
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, beef casserole, dinner recipes, comfort food