This Ground Beef Power Bowl is a hearty meal packed with protein! It’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy avocado, and rich cottage cheese, making it both tasty and filling.
Honestly, who knew cottage cheese could be so good? I love mixing it all together for a hearty lunch or dinner. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings for extra fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main source of protein in the bowl. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option or even plant-based ground beef if you’re looking for a meatless dish.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re out of avocado, try using guacamole or a dollop of sour cream for similar texture and flavor.
Cottage Cheese: I love the creaminess and protein boost from cottage cheese. If you’re not a fan, consider using Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a substitute.
Sweet Potato: Roasting sweet potatoes gives a nice sweetness. You can swap them for regular potatoes, but I recommend sticking with sweet potatoes for their nutritional value and flavor.
Rice: Brown rice is more nutritious, but you can also use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or any grain you like. This keeps it versatile depending on what you have at home.
How Do I Make Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes can really elevate the flavors in your bowl! Here’s how to do it well:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for a nice, hot roast.
- Cut sweet potatoes into even cubes for consistent cooking.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to allow airflow, which helps them caramelize.
- Flip halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly tender and delicious sweet potatoes for your bowl!
How to Make a Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp olive oil (for cooking beef)
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper)
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting sweet potatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes of cooking time, making the total time about 45-50 minutes. It’s simple to prepare, and you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take your sweet potato cubes and toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and turn golden brown.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, using a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which will take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning (or your chosen spice mixture) along with 1/4 cup of water. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to mix well with the beef. This will give your beef a delicious, savory flavor—then remove it from heat!
4. Assemble Your Power Bowl:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Start with a base of your cooked rice in each bowl. Neatly arrange portions of the seasoned ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, sliced avocado, and sliced red onion in different sections on top of the rice. This not only looks great but also allows each bite to hold a bit of everything!
5. Add the Cottage Cheese:
Generously spoon cottage cheese over the center of each bowl, adding creamy goodness to each bite. It contrasts beautifully with the rest of the ingredients.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a bit of kick and add fresh cilantro if you like an extra pop of flavor. Grab a spoon and dig in!
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Ground Beef Power Bowl! It’s a filling meal that’s sure to please your taste buds. 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and can give you the same delicious flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly as it may require slightly less time than beef.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover power bowl components separately in airtight containers. The ground beef and sweet potatoes will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Avocado and cottage cheese are best added fresh to maintain their textures.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can replace it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture and protein boost, or try ricotta cheese if you prefer something milder in flavor.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check your taco seasoning for gluten content, as some pre-made mixes may contain gluten. You can also make your own seasoning to ensure it’s safe.