High-Protein Ground Beef, Sweet Potato & Cottage Cheese Bowl

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 250 g (9 oz) lean ground beef

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 teaspoon olive oil, if needed

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, about 400 g total

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• A small pinch of salt

For the Bowl

• ½ cup cottage cheese (about 110 g)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 small avocado, diced

• 1–2 teaspoons chili flakes, optional

Honey-Mustard Dressing

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• 1–2 teaspoons water, to thin as needed

• A pinch of black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Wash, peel if desired, and cut the sweet potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes.

3. Toss them with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

4. Spread them on a baking tray in a single layer.

5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender inside and lightly browned outside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.

3. Season with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook for about 7–10 minutes, stirring regularly, until fully browned.

5. Make sure ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

6. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. Add honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper to a small bowl.

2. Whisk until smooth.

3. Add water a little at a time until the dressing is easy to drizzle.

Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

1. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.

2. Dice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.

3. Measure out the cottage cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

1. Divide the roasted sweet potatoes between two meal-prep bowls.

2. Add the cooked ground beef.

3. Spoon cottage cheese into each bowl.

4. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and diced avocado around the other ingredients.

5. Drizzle with honey-mustard dressing and add chili flakes if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while the beef and sweet potatoes are warm and the vegetables are fresh. For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until eating.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, assuming two servings.

Values vary depending on the beef’s fat percentage, cottage cheese brand, avocado size, and amount of dressing used.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Peanuts and tree nuts: No peanuts or tree nuts are required in this recipe.

• Dairy: Cottage cheese contains milk.

• Mustard: Dijon mustard may trigger mustard allergies.

• Honey: Included in the dressing; omit or substitute if needed.

• Cross-contact: Check packaged ingredients for allergen statements if preparing food for someone with a severe allergy.

Tips and Variations

• For meal prep: Prepare several portions of beef and sweet potatoes in advance. Refrigerate promptly and add avocado and dressing shortly before serving.

• For a spicier bowl: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the beef.

• For a lighter dressing: Use less olive oil and add extra lemon juice and water.

• For extra vegetables: Add cucumber, spinach, or shredded lettuce.

• For a different protein: Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef; cook ground poultry to 165°F (74°C).

Storage and Food Safety

• Refrigerate cooked beef and sweet potatoes within 2 hours in airtight containers.

• Store refrigerated leftovers for 3–4 days.

• Keep the dressing separate and add avocado fresh when possible.

• Reheat the beef and sweet potatoes to 165°F (74°C) before eating.

• Avoid leaving the assembled bowl in a warm car or at room temperature for an extended period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen sweet potato cubes?

Yes. Roast them according to the package instructions, allowing extra time if needed to achieve a browned exterior.

Can I replace cottage cheese?

Yes. Plain Greek yogurt or a suitable dairy-free alternative can work, though the flavor and nutrition will differ.

Can I make it without honey?

Yes. Use a little extra lemon juice and a small amount of maple syrup or omit the sweetener entirely.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes. Store the cooked beef and sweet potatoes separately from the fresh vegetables, cottage cheese, and dressing when possible for the best texture.