
This Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Hash turns leftover taco meat into a bold and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast or dinner. Loaded with sweet potatoes and colorful veggies, it is hearty and nourishing with a punch of flavor. Whether you are feeding a crowd or making a cozy weeknight meal, this hash is a go-to winner.
This recipe first saved the day for me when I had taco meat to use up and needed something filling. Now it is my family’s favorite when we want something satisfying but healthy too.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: provides a hearty base and rich flavor Using lean beef helps keep it lighter
- Taco seasoning: brings bold Tex-Mex flavor Choose a low sodium or homemade blend for better control
- Water: helps the seasoning coat the meat and stay juicy
- Olive oil or avocado oil: gives a little richness to sauté the vegetables Choose a fresh oil for best taste
- Sweet potato: brings natural sweetness and nutrition Look for firm sweet potatoes free of bruises
- Sweet bell pepper: adds color and a touch of crunch Red yellow or orange are all great
- Red onion: gives zesty sharpness Choose an onion that feels heavy for its size
- Mushrooms: add depth and a meaty texture Choose firm dry mushrooms with no dark spots
- Spinach: adds a boost of greens and brings everything together Fresh spinach holds up best
- Optional toppings: let everyone customize Try cilantro green onions avocado guacamole jalapenos fried egg or cheese For Whole30 skip cheese or sour cream
Step by Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Spices:
- Place a skillet on medium high heat Add ground beef taco seasoning and water Cook and stir until beef is browned and cooked through about 8 to 10 minutes Break up the beef so it cooks evenly Remove the beef from the pan and set aside If using leftover taco meat skip this step
- Sauté the Sweet Potatoes:
- In the same skillet add half the oil Once hot add cubed sweet potatoes Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper Sauté for 10 to 15 minutes stirring every couple of minutes so they cook evenly The potatoes should be just about tender but not falling apart Add a little more oil if needed for preventing sticking
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the rest of the oil along with diced onion sweet bell pepper and mushrooms Continue cooking for about 3 minutes until everything softens and starts to smell fragrant Stir occasionally to prevent burning
- Combine Spinach and Meat:
- Gently fold in the chopped spinach and reserved taco meat Cook for a few more minutes until the spinach wilts down and everything is heated through Mix so every bite is full of veggies and flavor
- Serve and Top:
- Serve the hash hot and let everyone pick their favorite toppings Add fresh cilantro avocado or a fried egg for extra flair

The sweet potatoes are my favorite part They get golden on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth inside My kids always ask for extra avocado and fried eggs on top reminding me how customizable and fun this meal can be
Storage Tips
Let the hash cool slightly before transferring to a container Store covered in the fridge for up to four days To reheat microwave portions or warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to keep it tender This recipe also freezes well Pack in tightly sealed portions for up to two months then thaw and reheat as desired
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version Swap spinach for kale if that is what you have on hand For extra veggies try tossing in zucchini or corn Black beans can boost the protein if you are not following Whole30
Serving Suggestions
This hash makes a hearty breakfast topped with eggs or pairs well with a simple green salad for a relaxed dinner For a brunch spread set out an array of toppings so everyone can customize Add salsa or hot sauce on the side for spice lovers
Cultural Context
Tex-Mex cuisine blends Mexican flavors and American comfort food classics Hash is a traditional skillet meal often meant to use up leftovers Turning taco meat into a hash is a clever and tasty way to celebrate Tex-Mex flavors with everyday ingredients
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover taco meat?
Yes, leftover taco meat works perfectly. Simply skip browning new beef and add the pre-cooked meat at the end.
- → What toppings pair well with this hash?
Great topping ideas include fresh cilantro, avocado, green onions, guacamole, jalapeños, fried eggs, or cheese.
- → How do I make this dairy-free or Whole30-compliant?
Simply omit cheese and sour cream. Stick with avocado, vegetables, and egg for Whole30 or dairy-free versions.
- → Can I meal prep this dish in advance?
Yes, prepare the hash ahead and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to enjoy.
- → Which vegetables can be substituted in the hash?
Feel free to swap in zucchini, kale, or additional mushrooms for variety or based on preferences.