This Ground Beef Power Bowl is a hearty and fun meal! It features tasty ground beef, creamy avocado, and rich cottage cheese all mixed together for a satisfying bite.
Honestly, it feels like a big hug in a bowl. I love throwing in some extra veggies for crunch! You can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy days and a little yummy comfort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your dish, but you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh or black beans, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Butternut Squash: It gives sweetness and a nice texture. If you can’t find it, use sweet potatoes or even carrots. Just be sure to adjust roasting time as needed since some cook faster than others.
Avocado: This adds creaminess to your bowl! If avocados aren’t ripe or available, try using some guacamole instead or a dollop of sour cream for a different but still creamy touch.
Cottage Cheese: A great source of protein! If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt is a good substitute or for a vegan option, try non-dairy yogurt.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef can be a breeze, but it’s crucial not to rush it! Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet over medium heat. This ensures a nice sear.
- Add the beef in small batches if you’re working with a lot. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Let it sit undisturbed for a minute or so to get brown edges. Then break it apart with a spatula.
- Once browned, drain excess fat if needed (this depends on the fat content of the beef you use).
- Season it after it’s partly cooked so the spices really stick to the meat!
Following these steps will get you flavorful ground beef that adds a yummy kick to your power bowl!
Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1-2 green onions, finely chopped
- Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bowl takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a wholesome meal ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until it’s evenly coated. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast it for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pieces are tender and have a lovely golden color.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While your squash is roasting, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, using a spatula to break it apart into smaller pieces. Season the beef with the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully.
3. Assemble the Power Bowl:
Once both the squash and beef are ready, it’s time to put together your power bowl! Start by placing the cooked ground beef at the bottom of a serving bowl. On one side, add the roasted butternut squash, and in the middle, spoon in the cottage cheese. Finally, place the avocado slices on the other side.
4. Finish with Garnishes:
To make your bowl pop, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top. If you like some heat, drizzle a few chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce over the avocado. It adds a nice kick!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Ground Beef Power Bowl is now ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy a colorful and nutritious meal packed with flavor.
This recipe is a great combination of savory ground beef, sweet roasted squash, creamy cottage cheese, and rich avocado, making for a satisfying and complete meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu as substitutes for the ground beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To create a dairy-free option, simply replace the cottage cheese with a non-dairy yogurt, such as almond or coconut yogurt. You can also skip the cheese altogether or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What Can I Use Instead of Butternut Squash?
If butternut squash is unavailable, sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this dish. You can also try carrots or zucchini, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable used.
Can I Meal Prep This Bowl?
Yes, this power bowl is great for meal prep! You can cook the beef and roast the squash ahead of time, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just assemble the bowls just before serving to keep the avocado fresh. You can also pack the different components separately for an easy grab-and-go meal!
