Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowl

Craving something hearty, healthy, and totally delicious? This Viral Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Bowl is the high-protein, meal-prep-friendly recipe everyone’s talking about—and once you try it, you’ll see why! Want to make it vegetarian? We have options for that too. 

It may sound crazy but the viral ground beef and sweet potato bowl with cottage cheese has become one of my go-to meal prep lunches. It’s high in protein, packed with flavor, easy to make, and nourishing enough to fuel your busy days. While I was skeptical at first, it really is as good as everyone says. 

This satisfying bowl is made with roasted sweet potatoes, taco-style seasoned ground beef (or one of our plant-based options), and a generous dollop of creamy cottage cheese. Topped off with crunchy pepperoncini, buttery avocado, fresh microgreens or crisp lettuce, and a sprinkle of bright cilantro, it’s a fantastic combination of textures and flavors that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Bowl

• Protein-Packed: Thanks to lean ground beef and high-quality cottage cheese, each bowl delivers a serious protein punch—perfect for post-gym meals or keeping you full longer.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Roast a big batch of sweet potatoes and cook your ground beef in advance—then just reheat and assemble throughout the week.
• Hormone-Supportive Ingredients: Sweet potatoes offer slow-digesting carbs, while cottage cheese provides calcium and casein protein for sustained energy. Add avocado for healthy fats and fiber.
• Customizable & Family-Friendly: Keep it spicy or mild, go dairy-free with a coconut yogurt swap, or serve it taco-style in a grain-free wrap.

What’s in This Viral Beef and Sweet Potato Bowl?

This nourishing, protein-rich bowl is made with simple, whole ingredients that deliver both flavor and function. Here’s what you’ll need to build your own:

• 80–90% lean ground beef – Grass-fed and finished is ideal, and regeneratively raised beef is even better for you and the planet
• Taco seasoning – Look for clean, flavorful blends from brands like Siete, Trader Joe’s, or Primal Palate
• Sweet potatoes – Roasted until caramelized for a naturally sweet, fiber-rich base
• Cottage cheese – We recommend Good Culture for its thick, creamy texture and clean ingredient list
• Pepperoncini – Adds a tangy crunch that balances the creamy and savory elements
• Fresh microgreens or lettuce – For a crisp, refreshing contrast (arugula or romaine work beautifully)
• Avocado – Offers healthy fats and a buttery texture
• Fresh cilantro – A bright, herbaceous finishing touch
• Hot honey – most of the beef and sweet potato bowls on TikTok are drizzled with a little hot honey, but this is optional. 
• Optional toppings – Lime juice, hot sauce, sliced radish, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and flair

The Secret Ingredient: Cottage Cheese 

If you haven’t hopped on the savory cottage cheese train yet, this is your moment. When mixed into the warm sweet potatoes and beef, it melts just slightly—creating a creamy, almost cheesy effect without any added dairy-heavy sauces. Good Culture is my go-to brand because it’s low in additives, made with live & active cultures, and just so luscious.

Protein Bowl Macros

If you’re tracking your macronutrients, this type of recipe made with simple ingredients and lots of protein is ideal. This sweet potato beef bowl has: 

• Calories: 350 
• Protein: 34 grams 
• Net Carbs: 14 grams
• Fat: 16 grams

Make It Ahead

This bowl is perfect for meal prep. Roast the sweet potatoes and cook the beef on Sunday, then store in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and assemble. It’s the kind of lunch or dinner that feels fresh and satisfying. 

Cooked ground beef will last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking to keep it safe and fresh. If you’re not planning to eat it within that timeframe, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this bowl dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the cottage cheese for a dairy-free alternative like plain coconut yogurt or a creamy cashew-based spread. You can also add a drizzle of tahini or guacamole for richness.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Sure! For a vegetarian “beef” and sweet potato bowl, use our Chipotle Sofritas, Tempeh Taco “meat”, Cuban black beans instead of the beef. These are all high protein plant-based options. 

How long does cooked ground beef last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef will keep for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep and reheats well throughout the week.

Can I use another protein instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken work great. Just make sure to season well—taco seasoning or smoky spices like cumin and paprika are key.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free—just double-check your taco seasoning to make sure it doesn’t contain hidden gluten or additives.