This Ground Beef Power Bowl is a fun and filling meal! It mixes seasoned ground beef with creamy avocado and rich cottage cheese. You’ll love the tasty blend of textures!
For me, this bowl is a lifesaver on busy nights. Just cook the beef, layer in the toppings, and you’re good to go! And yes, I might add extra avocado—no shame! 🥑😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for substitutes, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. You can even try plant-based ground meat if you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish!
Sweet Potatoes: They add a nice sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have them, butternut squash or regular potatoes are great options, or even quinoa for a different twist.
Avocado: Fresh avocado brings creaminess. If it’s hard to find, you could try guacamole or a dollop of sour cream as alternatives. Just remember, avocado can also be swapped for hummus if you want a different flavor!
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient adds protein and creaminess. If cottage cheese isn’t your thing, Greek yogurt provides a similar texture and can be a good substitute. Just go for the unsweetened version!
How Can I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes can be simple, but there are a few tips to get them just right. First, cut them into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to brown nicely.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for that perfect roast.
- Use a light coating of olive oil and season well with salt and spices.
- Flip halfway through to ensure even browning and tenderness.
If they come out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, you’ll know you did it right!
Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced or halved
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sweet potatoes)
For Seasoning the Beef:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a drizzle of your favorite dressing or hot sauce
Time Needed:
This delicious power bowl will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. The sweet potatoes roast while you cook the beef, making it a quick and easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread them out on a baking sheet—you want them to have a bit of space! Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are tender and lightly browned.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as you cook it until it’s browned all the way through, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes to blend those flavors beautifully.
4. Assemble the Power Bowl:
In serving bowls, start by placing a generous bed of chopped spinach or mixed greens. Then, layer on the roasted sweet potatoes, the seasoned ground beef, spoonfuls of cottage cheese, and top it off with avocado slices.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it all off with a sprinkling of chopped cilantro. If you like an extra kick, drizzle your favorite dressing or some hot sauce on top. Serve immediately and enjoy this nutritious, flavorful power bowl!
This recipe is a fantastic balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lean substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as turkey can be milder than beef.
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Potatoes?
No problem! You can substitute regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even quinoa if you want to try something new. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover power bowl components separately in airtight containers. The beef and sweet potatoes can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Combine them when you’re ready to eat, and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I Make This Bowl Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the beef and sweet potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the bowl with fresh greens, cottage cheese, and avocado when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
