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Spiced Ground Beef and Roasted Sweet Potato Hash – A Wholesome Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 12, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re on a quest for a delicious, satisfying meal that won’t derail your weight loss goals. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that combines the robust flavors of spiced ground beef with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.

Welcome to the world of Spiced Ground Beef and Roasted Sweet Potato Hash! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritional powerhouse that can keep you full and energized throughout the day.

Why Choose Spiced Ground Beef and Roasted Sweet Potato Hash?

At first glance, you might think of hash as a breakfast item, but this versatile dish can be enjoyed any time of day. Here are some compelling reasons to make it part of your meal rotation:

  1. Balanced Nutrition: This dish provides a hearty blend of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. In fact, incorporating protein into your meals can boost metabolism by up to 30% for several hours after eating.
  2. Sweet Potatoes—A Superfood: Sweet potatoes are a nutritional superstar! They’re rich in vitamins A and C, and a single medium sweet potato contains about 4 grams of fiber. Fiber is crucial for weight loss, as it promotes satiety and helps regulate digestion.
  3. Flavorful and Filling: The spices in this dish, combined with the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the savory richness of the beef, create a flavor explosion that will keep your taste buds entertained. Plus, this hash is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites without loading up on empty calories.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is a fantastic source of protein, iron, and zinc. Opting for 90% lean or higher can help keep the fat content in check while still providing robust flavor.
  • Sweet Potatoes: These root vegetables are low on the glycemic index, meaning they won’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. They also contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
  • Spices: Spices like cumin and paprika not only enhance flavor but also provide health benefits. Cumin has been shown to aid digestion, and paprika is packed with antioxidants that can fight oxidative stress.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect from this delicious dish:

  • Servings: 4 people
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Hash

  • 1 pound (450g) of lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

For Serving

  • Avocado slices (optional)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven (Time: 5 minutes)

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will ensure the sweet potatoes get crispy while roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes (Time: 25 minutes)

  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Spread the sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and golden brown. Make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef (Time: 10 minutes)

  • While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Spice It Up (Time: 5 minutes)

Once the vegetables are tender, add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the spices cook for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 5: Combine and Serve (Time: 5 minutes)

  • Once the sweet potatoes are finished roasting, carefully add them to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to combine.
  • Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, and top with avocado slices and hot sauce if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Choosing the Right Beef: Always opt for lean cuts to keep your hash healthy. If you want to experiment, ground turkey or chicken can also work beautifully in this recipe.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. The more colors on your plate, the better!
  • Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Why This Recipe is Ideal for Weight Loss

The Spiced Ground Beef and Roasted Sweet Potato Hash is a fantastic option for anyone looking to lose weight without feeling deprived. With approximately 400-450 calories per serving, it’s filling and satisfying.

Plus, the high protein content helps to maintain muscle mass while losing fat, which is crucial for a healthy metabolism.

The Role of Portion Control

Being mindful of portion sizes can significantly impact your weight loss journey. This recipe is easy to portion out, ensuring you get a hearty meal without going overboard. Pair it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Incorporating This Dish Into Your Diet

To further enhance the health benefits, consider serving this hash with a side of Greek yogurt or a dollop of guacamole. These additions can provide healthy fats and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

Relish in the Joy of Healthy Eating

Healthy eating should never feel like a punishment, and this Spiced Ground Beef and Roasted Sweet Potato Hash proves just that. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying texture, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling nourished and happy.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this delightful dish that supports your weight loss journey while treating your taste buds to something special. Remember, the path to wellness is paved with delicious meals just like this one!