Savory Beef Sweet Potato Hash

This savory beef and sweet potato hash is perfect for transforming leftover beef into a hearty breakfast or a quick weeknight dinner. The tender sweetness of diced sweet potatoes mingling with deeply seasoned beef and caramelized onions is downright comforting. Layered flavors and textures make each bite memorable and satisfying.

When I first made this recipe after a holiday roast, everyone raved and the pan was wiped clean. Now, it is my go-to for cozy mornings or when I want a nourishing meal on the fly.

Ingredients

• Cooked beef: about 2 cups diced or shredded Use good quality leftover roast or steak for the best flavor and texture
• Sweet potatoes: 2 large peeled and cubed Look for firm and brightly colored potatoes to guarantee sweetness and no starchiness
• Yellow onion: 1 medium diced Adds a sweet aromatic base Pick onions with tight skins and no soft spots
• Bell pepper: 1 any color diced Bring color and crunch Red and yellow peppers are the sweetest
• Olive oil or avocado oil: 2 tablespoons Adds healthy fats and helps everything brown Pick extra virgin oil for flavor depth
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced Choose firm unblemished cloves for best flavor
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon Adds fresh herby aroma
• Dried rosemary: 1 teaspoon Introduces earthy notes Use dried needles for strong flavor
• Smoked paprika: half teaspoon Lends smoky warmth Opt for the Spanish variety if available
• Salt and black pepper: to taste Essential for flavor Use freshly ground black pepper for more kick
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley cilantro fried eggs avocado hot sauce These finish the dish with freshness creaminess or zing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into half inch cubes making sure they are as even as possible so they cook at the same rate Do this process just before cooking so the potatoes do not discolor

Sauté the Aromatics:

Pour the oil into a large skillet or cast iron pan and warm it over medium heat When the oil begins to shimmer scatter in the diced onion and bell pepper Stir often while they cook for five to seven minutes until the onion looks soft and glassy and the pepper is beginning to turn tender but still holds color

Add Garlic and Spices:

Sprinkle in the minced garlic then the thyme rosemary and smoked paprika Stir constantly for one minute so the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned The spices will start releasing their aroma as they get toasty in the oil

Incorporate Sweet Potatoes:

Tip the diced sweet potatoes into the pan with the aromatics Toss everything until the potatoes are well mixed with the onions peppers and spices Scatter in salt and black pepper Start with a light hand and adjust as you cook

Cook the Sweet Potatoes:

Cover the pan and lower the heat to medium low Let the sweet potatoes steam and cook through for fifteen to twenty minutes Stir gently every so often to stop anything from sticking Check for tenderness with a fork and add a splash of water or broth only if the pan looks dry

Add the Cooked Beef:

Once the sweet potatoes are totally tender scatter in the beef Gently fold it into the hash Let everything warm through on low heat If your beef is in large pieces break it up now so it can soak up all the flavors

Crisp it Up:

Turn the heat up to medium high and let the hash cook uncovered for an extra five to seven minutes Only stir a couple times so the beef and potatoes develop golden crispy bits on the bottom This step creates delicious texture

Taste and Adjust Seasoning:

Sample a bite and decide if it needs more salt pepper or a hint of paprika for smokiness Adjust until all the flavors pop

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon the hash into bowls while hot Shower with fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright lift and if you love a runny yolk, crown each serving with a fried egg or creamy avocado slices

Pin

My favorite part is the smoked paprika It transforms leftovers and adds a subtle campfire smokiness We love gathering around the table and passing bowls of hash on chilly weekends when comfort food is a must

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For the best reheating results use a skillet to crisp the hash again on the stove You can freeze portions for up to two months but the potatoes may soften a bit when thawed

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of sweet potatoes try butternut squash or regular potatoes Ground turkey or chicken makes a great swap if you have no beef Use any herbs you enjoy like oregano or basil for a different aromatic vibe

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hash under a fried or poached egg for breakfast If you want extra greens toss in baby spinach at the end and let it wilt Pairs nicely with tangy hot sauce or plain Greek yogurt for a cool creamy finish

Cultural and Historical Context

Hash recipes have deep roots in resourceful home cooking stretching back centuries This dish was born from a need to use up leftovers and stretch meat further Sweet potatoes are a Southern favorite and their natural sweetness balances the earthiness of beef for a modern comfort meal

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef works best for this dish?

Diced leftover roast beef, steak, or fully-cooked ground beef are all excellent options, providing rich, savory flavor and hearty texture.

→ How can I ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly?

Dice sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes and stir occasionally while cooking, covering the pan to gently steam them until tender.

→ What herbs and spices add the most flavor?

Thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika offer earthy, aromatic, and subtly smoky notes that complement both beef and sweet potatoes.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the hash?

Absolutely. Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor, tossing them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ What garnishes pair well with this dish?

Fresh parsley, cilantro, a fried egg, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce all add vibrant flavor and an appealing finish.

→ Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and keeps its flavor and texture, making it perfect for preparing in advance for quick, hearty meals.