Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

It’s funny how some of the best recipes are born out of a simple need to use up what’s in the fridge. That’s exactly how this Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash came to be in my kitchen, and let me tell you, it’s become a family favorite for a reason! Initially, I was just trying to find a creative way to use leftover roast beef and a couple of lonely sweet potatoes. What emerged was a dish so packed with flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness, that it quickly earned a spot on our regular meal rotation. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything remotely “healthy,” devours this hash without a second thought. The savory beef, perfectly tender and juicy, combined with the naturally sweet and creamy sweet potatoes, creates a symphony of tastes that’s simply irresistible. The subtle spice from the onions and peppers, and the aromatic herbs, elevate this humble hash to something truly special. Whether it’s a hearty brunch on a lazy Sunday, a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, or even meal prepping for busy days, this Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a winner every time. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

• Cooked Beef: About 2 cups, diced or shredded. Leftover roast beef, steak, or even ground beef works wonderfully. It provides the savory protein base for the hash.
• Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. These bring natural sweetness and a creamy texture to balance the savory beef.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced. Adds a foundational aromatic layer and subtle sweetness as it cooks down.
• Bell Pepper: 1 (any color), seeded and diced. Contributes a slightly sweet and crisp element, as well as vibrant color.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef, adding healthy fats and flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Essential for adding a pungent and savory depth to the hash.
• Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary. These earthy herbs enhance the savory notes of the beef and vegetables.
• Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon. Provides a subtle smoky depth and warmth.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Crucial for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley or cilantro, fried eggs, avocado slices, hot sauce. These add freshness, richness, or a spicy kick, depending on preference.

Instructions for Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into roughly ½-inch cubes. Uniform size will ensure even cooking. It’s best to do this just before cooking to prevent browning.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the peppers start to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The spices will bloom in the warm oil, releasing their aromas and flavors.
4. Incorporate Sweet Potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine them with the sautéed vegetables and spices. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and adjust later as needed.
5. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the pan seems dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to help steam the sweet potatoes.
6. Add the Cooked Beef: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add the diced or shredded cooked beef to the skillet. Gently stir to incorporate it into the hash and heat through. If using leftover roast beef or steak, it will already be cooked, so you just need to warm it up. If using ground beef, ensure it’s fully cooked and drained of excess fat before adding it to the hash.
7. Crisp it Up (Optional but Recommended): For a slightly crispy hash, increase the heat to medium-high and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef and sweet potatoes are lightly browned and slightly crispy around the edges. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the hash.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the hash and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the flavors.
9. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. For an extra touch, top with a fried egg, avocado slices, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.

Nutrition Facts for Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash (per serving, approximate)

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
• Calories: 350-450 kcal (depending on beef and oil amount)
• Protein: 25-35g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

Prep Time: 20 minutes
This includes peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, dicing the onion and bell pepper, mincing the garlic, and gathering all the ingredients. Having your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process much smoother and faster.

Cook Time: 30 minutes
This includes sautéing the vegetables, cooking the sweet potatoes until tender, heating through the beef, and crisping up the hash if desired. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your sweet potato cubes and the heat of your stove.

Total Time: 50 minutes
From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash on the table in under an hour, making it a perfect option for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.

How to Serve Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

This versatile hash can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Breakfast or Brunch Staple:
  • Top with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness. The runny yolk creates a delicious sauce when mixed with the hash.
  • Serve alongside toast or English muffins for a complete and satisfying morning meal.
  • Pair with a side of fresh fruit like berries or melon for a balanced breakfast.
• Hearty Lunch or Dinner:
  • Serve as a standalone dish for a quick and easy meal. It’s filling and flavorful enough to be enjoyed on its own.
  • Accompany with a simple green salad to add freshness and lightness. A vinaigrette dressing complements the savory hash beautifully.
  • Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess and tang.
  • Serve with avocado slices for healthy fats and a creamy texture.
• Creative Variations:
  • Hash Bowls: Create customizable bowls by serving the hash over a bed of quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice. Add toppings like salsa, black beans, corn, or cheese for a Southwestern twist.
  • Hash Tacos or Burritos: Spoon the hash into warm tortillas for a fun and flavorful taco or burrito filling. Add toppings like shredded cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
  • Hash Stuffed Peppers: Use the hash as a filling for bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender. Top with cheese and bake until melted and bubbly.

Additional Tips for the Best Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

1. Use Quality Beef: The flavor of the beef is central to this dish. Opt for good quality cooked beef. Leftover roast beef or steak works exceptionally well. If using ground beef, choose lean ground beef and brown it thoroughly, draining off any excess fat before adding it to the hash.
2. Dice Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes ensures they cook evenly and at the same rate as the other vegetables. Aim for roughly ½-inch cubes for best results.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are making a large batch of hash, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can steam the vegetables instead of sautéing and browning them properly. Using a large skillet or a Dutch oven is helpful.
4. Pre-cook Sweet Potatoes for Faster Cooking: If you are short on time, you can partially pre-cook the sweet potatoes. Microwave them for a few minutes or parboil them for 5-7 minutes before dicing and adding them to the skillet. This will significantly reduce the cooking time in the skillet.
5. Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, cumin and coriander for a warmer, earthy flavor, or Italian seasoning for a different herbal profile. Experiment to find your favorite spice combination.
6. Add Other Vegetables: This hash is highly adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as diced carrots, parsnips, zucchini, or mushrooms. Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips can be added along with the sweet potatoes, while softer vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms should be added later in the cooking process.
7. Make it Ahead of Time: Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. This makes it perfect for meal prepping.
8. Freeze for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked hash. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing is a convenient way to have a quick and healthy meal ready whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of leftover roast beef?
A: Yes, absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully in this hash. Brown the ground beef in the skillet first, drain off any excess fat, and then set it aside. Sauté the vegetables in the same skillet, and then add the cooked ground beef back in when you would normally add the leftover beef.

Q2: Can I make this hash vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, to make it vegetarian, simply omit the beef. You can add lentils or chickpeas for protein if desired. To make it vegan, omit the beef and ensure you are using oil instead of butter. Consider adding plant-based sausage crumbles or tempeh for a heartier vegan version.

Q3: What if I don’t have sweet potatoes? Can I use regular potatoes?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are good choices. Keep in mind that regular potatoes will have a less sweet flavor than sweet potatoes, so the overall taste of the hash will be slightly different.

Q4: Can I add eggs directly to the hash while cooking?
A: While you can crack eggs directly into the hash to cook them, it’s generally recommended to cook eggs separately (fried or poached) and then place them on top of the hash when serving. This allows for better control over the egg cooking and prevents them from becoming overcooked or rubbery in the hash.

Q5: How do I store leftover Savory Beef and Sweet Potato Hash?
A: Store leftover hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a little oil or water if needed to prevent sticking and keep it moist during reheating.

Q6: Can I make this hash spicy?
A: Yes, you can easily add a spicy kick to this hash. Include a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the dried herbs and smoked paprika. You can also add diced jalapeño peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the hash while cooking, or serve it with hot sauce on the side.

Q7: What are some good herbs to substitute for thyme and rosemary?
A: If you don’t have thyme and rosemary, you can use other herbs like oregano, sage, or marjoram. Italian seasoning is also a good substitute blend. Experiment with different herb combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also be added as a garnish for a fresh, bright flavor.

Q8: Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for this recipe?
A: While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for the best texture, you can use frozen diced sweet potatoes in a pinch. Thaw them slightly before adding them to the skillet and be aware that they may release more moisture during cooking, so you may need to cook them a bit longer to evaporate the excess liquid and achieve a good texture. Fresh sweet potatoes will generally yield a better result in terms of texture and flavor.

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