Sheet-Pan Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a simple and hearty meal that brings together tender ground beef, sweet potatoes, and a mix of colorful veggies all roasted on one pan. The sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and softness, while the beef gives it a nice, savory touch. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
I love this hash because it’s super easy to make and cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks on just one sheet pan. I usually toss in some bell peppers and onions to add extra flavor and a little crunch. A sprinkle of your favorite herbs or a dash of hot sauce can really brighten it up too. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food but doesn’t take forever to put together.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is with a fried egg on top – the runny yolk makes the hash even more satisfying. It’s a great dish to prep ahead of time if you like, and leftovers taste great the next day too. This hash always feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I’m pretty sure everyone in the family will love it just as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and adds richness. Choose lean to reduce extra fat. For a lighter or plant-based option, try ground turkey or lentils.
Sweet Potatoes: These bring natural sweetness and softness. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash work well.
Onion & Garlic: They add depth of flavor and aroma. Yellow or white onions are best. For garlic, fresh is ideal, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin give the hash warmth and a subtle smoky touch. Feel free to swap with chili powder or smoked chipotle for a different kick.
Eggs (optional): A fried or poached egg on top makes the dish more filling. For vegan alternatives, try avocado slices or a dollop of vegan mayo.
How Can You Make Sure The Sweet Potatoes and Beef Cook Evenly on One Sheet Pan?
Cooking beef and sweet potatoes together can be tricky because they have different cooking times.
- Start by roasting the sweet potatoes alone for 15 minutes to soften them.
- Cook the beef mixture separately on the stove to ensure it browns well without drying out.
- After combining on the sheet pan, return to the oven for 10 more minutes to let flavors blend and potatoes caramelize.
- Cut sweet potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook faster and evenly.
This method helps everything finish perfectly without undercooked potatoes or dried-out meat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large sheet pan – perfect for roasting sweet potatoes and mixing in the beef for easy cleanup.
- Non-stick skillet – helps brown the ground beef and cook onions evenly without sticking.
- Mixing bowl – ideal for tossing the sweet potatoes with oil and spices before roasting.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for breaking up the beef and stirring the hash.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for dicing sweet potatoes, onions, and peppers safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option with a milder taste.
- Add diced zucchini or mushrooms to boost the veggie content and add moisture.
- Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese right before serving for extra creaminess.
- Include fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end to brighten the flavors.
How to Make Sheet-Pan Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 small chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
Seasonings and Oils:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or mint leaves)
- 1-2 eggs (optional, for topping)
Time You’ll Need:
Expect to spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 25-30 minutes cooking, including roasting and stovetop steps. Total time is roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, dried thyme or oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes evenly on the sheet pan. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes to start softening them.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. If desired, add the diced red bell pepper and sliced chili pepper during the last few minutes of cooking.
3. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the sweet potatoes on the pan and toss everything together evenly. Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and nicely caramelized. Meanwhile, if you like, fry or poach eggs to serve on top.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hash warm on plates or bowls. Top each serving with a fried or poached egg if using, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint to brighten the dish. This hearty hash is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is sure to be a family favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture. Adjust the roasting time slightly as frozen pieces may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to restore moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sweet potatoes and beef mixture separately, then combine and roast when ready to eat. You can also refrigerate the fully cooked dish and reheat it later for convenience.
What Are Good Substitutes for Ground Beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles make great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times as needed since leaner meats may cook quicker and plant-based options may require less browning.
