This Ground Beef Power Bowl is a hearty mix of flavors that fills you up! With juicy ground beef, creamy avocado, and protein-rich cottage cheese, you’ll love every bite.
Honestly, it’s like a party in a bowl! I enjoy adding some spices for a kick, and it’s perfect for meal prep—easy to make and even easier to eat during the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 beef gives great flavor due to the fat content. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. Both will still give you a good protein boost!
Sweet Potatoes: They add a nice sweetness and texture. You can easily swap them for regular potatoes or even roasted carrots. If you’re in a hurry, microwave some frozen sweet potato cubes instead!
Cottage Cheese: A fantastic source of protein, I love using the small curd variety, but feel free to use Greek yogurt or ricotta for a smoother texture if you prefer. They both work well.
Avocado: Perfect for creaminess! If you don’t have avocados, you can consider using hummus or a dollop of sour cream for a different flavor profile.
Leafy Greens: I recommend using fresh spinach or arugula for a peppery kick, but mixed greens will also work well. If you want something different, try adding kale or chard!
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef just right helps retain its moisture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a heated pan and add a teaspoon of oil. This prevents sticking.
- Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks—this ensures even cooking.
- Season early on to let the flavors soak in. Garlic and onion powders are fantastic!
- Cook until browned for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure there’s no pink left.
- If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it, but a little fat adds flavor!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked ground beef every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for flavor)
- 1 tsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sweet potatoes)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 cups leafy greens (spinach, arugula, or mixed greens)
Protein Additions:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup cauliflower rice or cooked brown rice (optional base)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- A sprinkle of chili powder or paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer, and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them halfway to ensure they caramelize evenly until they’re tender and delicious. Set aside after roasting.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season the meat with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. If there’s any excess fat, drain it before moving on.
3. Prepare the Base:
If you love adding some extra texture, warm up some cauliflower rice or cooked brown rice in a pan or microwave while your beef cooks. This can be a delicious base for your power bowl.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Now comes the fun part! Divide the cauliflower rice or brown rice across the bottom of each bowl. Top each with a generous serving of the cooked ground beef and roasted sweet potatoes.
5. Add Fresh Elements:
On the side of the bowl, arrange your sliced avocado and a handful of leafy greens. This will add freshness and color to your dish!
6. Top with Cottage Cheese:
Your bowls are almost ready! Spoon a nice portion of cottage cheese generously over each bowl, giving it that creamy rich flavor. You can also mix it with a little salt and pepper if you like!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by garnishing with a sprinkle of chili powder or smoked paprika over the cottage cheese and avocado. If you like, add some fresh chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor!
Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require slightly different cooking times and could benefit from a bit more seasoning to ensure it’s flavorful.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both will add creaminess and a nice protein boost while offering a different flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove. Just be sure to stir occasionally for even heating!
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or even crumbled tofu. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian power bowl!