Name: Cottage Cheese Beef Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb lean ground beef; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese; Hot sauce (optional, for drizzling)

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High-protein, viral-worthy, and ultra-satisfying, this cottage cheese beef bowl is a colorful and nourishing meal perfect for quick lunches or efficient meal prep. Combining seasoned ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy cottage cheese, it delivers a complete and balanced dish in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bowl brings together nutrient-dense, whole ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. With over 30 grams of protein per serving, it’s a go-to option for fitness-minded individuals, busy professionals, or anyone seeking a filling, healthy meal. It’s highly customizable and requires minimal prep, making it an ideal choice for weekly meal plans or spontaneous dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 lb lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
Hot sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
To assemble the bowl, arrange the ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, diced avocado, and cottage cheese into sections of a large serving bowl.
Drizzle with hot sauce if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 bowls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or chili powder to the ground beef for more heat.
Grain Base: Add cooked quinoa or brown rice beneath the toppings for added fiber and bulk.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef with seasoned lentils, tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Different Cheese: Try ricotta or Greek yogurt for a different texture and flavor.
Add Greens: Toss in baby spinach, kale, or arugula for extra vitamins and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooked beef and roasted sweet potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The avocado and cottage cheese should be added fresh just before serving.
Reheat the beef and sweet potatoes in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through. Assemble the bowl after reheating to preserve the texture of the cold components.

FAQs

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store each component separately and assemble just before eating.

Is cottage cheese a good protein source?

Yes, cottage cheese is rich in casein protein, which digests slowly and helps with muscle maintenance.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well in this bowl.

What hot sauce works best?

Any hot sauce of your preference works, but sriracha or a smoky chipotle sauce pairs particularly well.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add avocado just before serving, or toss it in lemon or lime juice if preparing in advance.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze avocado or cottage cheese. However, you can freeze the cooked beef and roasted sweet potatoes.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it is relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if you omit the sweet potatoes or substitute with cauliflower.

Can I add eggs to this bowl?

Yes, a poached or soft-boiled egg makes a protein-rich and delicious addition.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s balanced, mild in flavor, and can be adjusted easily based on preferences.

Can I eat it cold?

Yes, this bowl is enjoyable both warm and cold, making it ideal for lunch on the go.

Conclusion

The cottage cheese beef bowl is a nutrient-rich, flavor-packed meal that’s both functional and delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this easy recipe delivers everything you need—protein, healthy fats, and energizing carbs—in one satisfying bowl. Give it a try and make it your own with endless variations.

Cottage Cheese Beef Bowl

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High-protein, viral-worthy, and ultra-satisfying, this cottage cheese beef bowl features seasoned ground beef, roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy cottage cheese—perfect for a quick lunch or nutritious meal prep.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 bowls 1x
Category: Lunch
Method: Roasting, Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
While the sweet potato roasts, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Set aside.
Assemble the bowl by arranging ground beef, roasted sweet potato, diced avocado, and cottage cheese in separate sections of a large serving bowl.
Drizzle with hot sauce if desired and serve immediately.