Sweet Potato Rocambole with Minced Meat is a show-stopping savory roll that perfectly blends the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with the hearty flavor of seasoned ground beef.
Soft on the inside and golden on the outside, this dish offers a beautiful balance of texture and taste — creamy, rich, and full of comfort.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or want to impress guests at a special occasion, this recipe delivers both elegance and flavor in every slice.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
- 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling
- 2 cups sautéed ground beef
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Optional Topping
- Extra grated cheese or melted butter for brushing before baking
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then boil until tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, stirring until creamy and well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly before mixing.
In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and slightly cohesive.
3. Assemble the Rocambole
Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface.
Spread the mashed sweet potato evenly over the surface, forming a rectangle about ½ inch thick, leaving a small border along the edges.
Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
Using the plastic wrap or towel to help, gently roll the sweet potato and beef mixture into a tight cylinder — similar to rolling a Swiss roll or cake log.
Be patient and roll slowly for a neat, even shape.
4. Bake the Rocambole
Transfer the roll to a lightly greased baking dish.
(Optional: Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.)
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and heated through.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the rocambole rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Cut into thick slices and serve warm with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Make It Perfect
Making Sweet Potato Rocambole is all about balance — creamy base, flavorful filling, and a beautifully rolled presentation.
- Smooth texture: Mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly or use a food processor for an ultra-smooth consistency.
- Balanced seasoning: Taste and adjust both the potato and meat layers before assembling — a touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor.
- Tight rolling: Use gentle, even pressure while rolling. A firm roll keeps the layers neat and prevents the rocambole from breaking apart.
- Golden finish: Brushing the roll with butter or olive oil before baking adds a rich, crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft inside.
Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Substitute ground beef with lean turkey or chicken for a lower-fat version.
- Add spice: Mix in chili flakes, cumin, or diced jalapeños to give the dish a little kick.
- Go cheesy: Layer mozzarella or cheddar between the filling and the potato base for extra gooeyness.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the minced meat with a sautéed mix of mushrooms, spinach, and onions.
- Crispier crust: Brush with melted butter or olive oil before baking to achieve a golden crunch.
- Fresh toppings: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or basil on top before serving for freshness.
- Serve with sauce: A drizzle of sour cream, garlic yogurt, or even tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory layers.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes to retain crispness, or microwave briefly for a quick option.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Rocambole with Minced Meat is a comforting, inventive dish that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.
Its smooth, buttery sweet potato base perfectly complements the savory, herb-infused beef filling, creating a meal that’s hearty yet refined.
Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday feasts, or when you just want to treat yourself to something homemade and wholesome, this rocambole is a guaranteed family favorite.
So preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as beautiful to serve as it is delicious to eat. 🍠✨
