Ground Beef Bowls

These Mediterranean-inspired ground beef bowls are a hearty and wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor and texture. They combine warmly spiced beef, caramelized roasted sweet potatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and crisp fresh veggies—all topped off with tangy feta. Optional additions like hummus or hot honey take the flavor to another level. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick weeknight dinner, these bowls offer the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and fresh in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ground beef bowls are the ultimate all-in-one meal—high in protein, full of fiber, and rich in flavor. The spiced beef brings depth, while the roasted sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the freshness of cucumber, tomatoes, and radishes. Cottage cheese gives a creamy contrast, and feta adds a salty, tangy kick. Everything comes together quickly and easily, and the toppings are endlessly customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Ground Beef:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 teaspoon 7 spice
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Fresh Toppings:
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup diced cucumber
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup sliced radishes
1/4 cup sliced red onions
1/4 cup olives (Kalamata or green)
1/4 cup feta cheese crumbles
Hot honey (optional)
Hummus (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.

3. Roast the sweet potatoes for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.

4. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat.

5. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in 7 spice, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and aromatic.

6. To assemble the bowls, start with a layer of roasted sweet potatoes.

7. Add a scoop of spiced ground beef on top.

8. Layer on the toppings: cottage cheese, cucumber, tomatoes, radishes, red onion, olives, and feta crumbles.

9. If desired, finish with a dollop of hummus and a drizzle of hot honey for added flavor.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based crumbles.

• Spice Swap: Use taco seasoning, cumin, or shawarma spices instead of 7 spice for different flavor profiles.

• Add Greens: Include a base of arugula, spinach, or romaine for more volume and freshness.

• Low-Carb Version: Replace sweet potatoes with roasted cauliflower or zucchini.

• Different Cheese: Try goat cheese, shredded cheddar, or a dollop of tzatziki instead of feta.

• Extra Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or crushed pita chips.

• Vegan Friendly: Skip the cottage cheese and feta, and use plant-based alternatives or extra hummus.

• Yogurt Sauce: Swap cottage cheese with a lemony Greek yogurt sauce for a tangy, creamy base.

• Rice Bowl Style: Use brown rice or quinoa in place of sweet potatoes for a grain-based version.

• Breakfast Twist: Top with a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast bowl.

Storage/Reheating

Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat the beef and sweet potatoes in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. Assemble fresh toppings just before serving to maintain texture and freshness. Avoid freezing, as the fresh vegetables and cottage cheese do not thaw well.

FAQs

Can I make these bowls ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep. Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat for the best texture.

What is 7 spice?

7 spice is a Middle Eastern blend typically made with allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cumin, and coriander. You can also use a premade blend.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

You can, though it will change the flavor and nutrition profile. Roasted white or red potatoes work well.

Is cottage cheese a good substitute for yogurt?

Yes, it adds creaminess and protein, but if you prefer, Greek yogurt or labneh also work great.

How can I make this spicier?

Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or use spicy hummus or hot honey to turn up the heat.

What protein alternatives work here?

Ground turkey, lamb, or even grilled chicken all make great substitutions for the beef.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but for the toppings, fresh is recommended for best texture and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as written, just double-check any spice blends or add-ins.

How long do leftovers last?

Up to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly in airtight containers.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it also works well as a cold bowl—just let the beef and sweet potatoes cool before assembling.

Conclusion

These ground beef bowls with roasted sweet potatoes and cottage cheese offer the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and fresh—all in one nutrient-packed bowl. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or creating a colorful dinner plate, these bowls are versatile, customizable, and always satisfying. With endless topping options and quick prep, this is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

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