This Maple Mustard Beef Bowl with Cottage Cheese is a cozy, sweet-and-savory combo I didn’t know I needed until I made it — and now I’m obsessed.

The caramelized maple-Dijon beef brings a warm, tangy depth that’s perfectly balanced by creamy cottage cheese and roasted sweet potatoes.

It’s high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and full of autumnal flavors that make it just as good for meal prep as it is for a comforting weeknight dinner.

This Maple Mustard Beef Bowl combines lean ground beef with a delightful mix of sweet potatoes, cottage cheese, and a tangy sauce made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard.

It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Imagine a flavorful blend of savory and sweet, with the comforting texture of sweet potatoes and the creaminess of cottage cheese.

With ingredients like garlic powder, soy sauce, and a hint of smoked paprika, this bowl is packed with punchy flavors that are perfectly balanced.

Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Jump to Recipe

Here’s Why You’ll Love My Maple Mustard Beef Bowl with Cottage Cheese

This bowl is the ultimate balance of flavor and nourishment. The sweet roasted sweet potatoes and the slightly tangy beef glaze bring comfort-food vibes, while the cool, creamy cottage cheese adds protein and contrast.

It’s bold without being overpowering, nutrient-packed without being boring, and incredibly satisfying — a perfect example of how cottage cheese can shine outside the breakfast bowl.

Flavorful Ingredients that Make a Difference

This vibrant dish brings together an assortment of ingredients that create a balanced and exciting meal.

The centerpiece is lean ground beef, which provides a satisfying source of protein.

Sautéed with a mix of olive oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, the beef gains a mouthwatering flavor profile that is hard to resist.

Adding to the allure are the sweet potatoes. Roasted to perfection, they add a naturally sweet and creamy texture that complements the savory beef beautifully.

The drizzle of maple syrup and tang from Dijon mustard in the sauce infuses the entire bowl with a delightful sweetness and zest, ensuring each bite is an experience of contrasting flavors.

Creating the Perfect Base

The foundation of this bowl starts with roasted sweet potatoes, which contribute not just taste but also nutrition.

Tossed in olive oil, these sweet potatoes are roasted until golden brown, creating a soft, sweet base that pairs beautifully with the seasoned beef.

Not only do they enhance the overall texture, but they also add a splash of color, making the dish visually appealing.

This vibrant combination sets the stage for layers of flavor and nutritional benefits, ensuring every component plays its part in this delightful meal.

Elevating the Flavor Profile

The maple mustard sauce elevates the lean ground beef, incorporating ingredients like soy sauce and red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

As the beef cooks, these flavors meld together, resulting in a savory coating that is simply irresistible.

This careful balance of sweet and savory encapsulates the essence of the dish, making it a standout option for any meal.

The addition of smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that rounds out the flavor, bringing everything together seamlessly.

Adding Creaminess and Freshness

To enhance the taste and texture even further, creamy cottage cheese is generously dolloped on top.

This addition not only brings a delightful richness but also adds a refreshing contrast to the warm ingredients below.

Sliced avocado offers a creamy layer that complements the robust flavors, enriching the overall experience.

Together, these toppings transform the bowl into a satisfying meal, combining various textures and tastes in each bite.

What To Serve With A Maple Mustard Beef Bowl with Cottage Cheese

This bowl works great as a standalone meal, but it also pairs beautifully with sautéed kale, arugula salad with apple slices, or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts.

You could also serve it with warm whole grain toast, cornbread, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze to play up the sweet-savory tones.

Garnish for a Flavorful Finish

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes provides the final touch, adding a hint of spice to the dish.

This simple garnish not only elevates the appearance but also allows for customization based on personal heat preferences.

Serving this dish against a rustic wooden backdrop enhances its charm, making it an inviting option for lunch or dinner.

It’s a perfect way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

The Joy of Assembling Your Bowl

Assembling this bowl is a straightforward process, allowing you to layer each component carefully.

Start with the roasted sweet potatoes, followed by the savory maple mustard beef, and finish with cottage cheese and avocado.

This method not only makes for an aesthetically pleasing presentation but also ensures that each bite contains a bit of everything.

It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures, leaving you looking forward to seconds.

Tips for the Best Maple Mustard Beef Bowl with Cottage Cheese

Use real maple syrup — the pure stuff — for that deep, caramelized sweetness. Let your sweet potatoes get lightly crisped and browned for the best flavor.

You can use plain cottage cheese or blend it with lemon juice and herbs if you want a drizzle-style consistency. And for even more texture, top with toasted pecans or crispy shallots.

Maple Mustard Beef Bowl with Cottage Cheese and Sweet Potatoes

Recipe by JoanneCourse: Dinner / LunchCuisine: Modern American FusionDifficulty: Easy
Servings

2

bowls
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories per serving

485

kcal


This hearty beef bowl features lean ground beef sautéed with olive oil and a medley of spices. The sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, adding a soft and sweet component to the dish.

The creamy cottage cheese and sliced avocado on top bring a delicious richness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

  • For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
  • 1 medium sweet potato, diced

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or avocado oil

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • For the Maple Mustard Beef:
  • ½ pound lean ground beef (90/10)

  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce

  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

  • For the Bowl Toppings:
  • ½ cup cottage cheese

  • ½ avocado, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions

  • Optional: toasted pecans or crispy onions for garnish

Directions

  • Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss diced sweet potatoes with oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Roast on a lined baking sheet for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.
  • Cook the Maple Mustard Beef:
  • While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.

    Reduce heat to low and stir in maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and thickened. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the Bowls:
  • Divide roasted sweet potatoes between two bowls. Top with maple mustard beef, a scoop of cottage cheese, chopped avocado, and green onions. Sprinkle with pecans or crispy onions if using.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
  • Serve warm and dig in immediately for that creamy-sweet-savory combo in every bite.

Notes

  • Add sautéed kale, spinach, or arugula for greens.
  • Maple and Dijon pair beautifully with chicken or turkey as well.
  • Want a low-carb version? Swap sweet potatoes for roasted cauliflower or butternut squash.
  • Great for meal prep — scale up and store in glass containers with cottage cheese added fresh!

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store beef and sweet potatoes in separate containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat before serving, then add fresh cottage cheese and toppings just before eating.

If desired, blend cottage cheese with lemon juice and herbs for a pourable sauce.

A hearty maple mustard beef bowl with sweet potatoes, cottage cheese, and avocado.