Affordable Homemade Dog Food with Sweet Potato and Green Beans

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

It’s really sad to see your pet go through stomach issues or allergies. A lot of commercial dog foods, even the pricier ones, are full of fillers and artificial ingredients that your dog may suffer even more.

However, what if it was possible for your dog to eat healthy and tasty food that costs almost nothing? I am gonna make that a reality for you.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features sweet potato and green beans, creating a balanced and budget-friendly meal.
• It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and packed with natural vitamins, fiber, and protein.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: Makes about 12 cups, enough for a medium-sized dog for 5-7 days.

Ingredients List

• Ground Turkey (93% lean): 2 lbs (~$7.00 – ~$9.00). Turkey is a lean protein source, great for dogs. You can swap this for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• Sweet Potatoes: 3 large (~$3.00 – ~$4.00). These are packed with vitamins A and C, and lots of fiber.
• Green Beans (fresh or frozen, no salt added): 2 cups (~$2.00 – ~$3.00). Green beans are low in calories and a good source of vitamins K and C.
• Carrots: 2 large (~$1.00 – ~$1.50). Carrots add beta-carotene and a natural sweetness.
• Brown Rice: 1 cup, uncooked (~$0.50 – ~$1.00). A good source of complex carbohydrates for energy. White rice can be used for very sensitive stomachs.
• Water or Low-Sodium Broth: 4 cups (~$0.25 – ~$0.75 for broth, water is free). Essential for cooking and moisture.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (~$0.10). Helps with cooking and adds healthy fats.
• Turmeric (optional): 1 teaspoon (~$0.05). Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Total estimated cost: ~$13.90 – ~$19.40

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, wash and peel the sweet potatoes and carrots. Dice them into small, bite-sized pieces, about half an inch. This helps them cook evenly.
• Cook the brown rice according to package directions. Usually, this means combining 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water and simmering until the water is absorbed.
• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat from the pot. This keeps the recipe leaner.
• Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, and water (or broth) to the pot with the turkey. If you’re using turmeric, add it now.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cooked brown rice until everything is well combined.
• Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog. This is important to prevent burns.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes depend a lot on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Generally, active adult dogs eat more than senior or less active dogs.
• For small dogs (10-20 lbs), start with about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) might need 1.5 to 2.5 cups daily.
• Large dogs (50-100 lbs) could eat 3 to 5 cups each day.
• Remember, these are just starting points. Watch your dog’s weight and adjust as needed.
• Always talk to your veterinarian before making big changes to your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Turkey: A fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth. It’s often easier for sensitive stomachs to digest than other meats.
• Sweet Potatoes: These are rich in beta-carotene (which turns into Vitamin A), important for vision and immune function. They also provide lots of fiber, which aids healthy digestion.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and full of vitamins K and C, as well as manganese and fiber. They’re a great way to add nutrients without a lot of extra energy.
• Carrots: Another excellent source of Vitamin A and antioxidants. The crunch is also good for dental health.
• Brown Rice: Offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber. It’s a gentler grain for many dogs compared to wheat or corn.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, good for skin and coat health.
• Turmeric (optional): Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help with joint health and overall wellness.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, divide the food into daily portions. Store these in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or mixed with a bit of their regular kibble. Some dogs love it slightly warmed.
• Always make sure the food is not too hot before giving it to your dog.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I make sure my dog gets all the nutrients they need?

While this recipe is balanced, a homemade diet can sometimes miss certain micronutrients over time. For long-term feeding, talk to your vet about adding a high-quality dog-specific vitamin and mineral supplement. This can help cover all bases.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Many vegetables are safe and healthy for dogs. Good options include peas, spinach, broccoli (in moderation), and pumpkin. Always avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as these are toxic to dogs.

My dog is a picky eater, how can I encourage them to try this?

Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food. Gradually increase the amount of homemade food over several days or even a week. Warming it slightly can also make it more appealing.

What if my dog has a chicken allergy instead of wheat?

No problem! The recipe uses ground turkey, which is often a good alternative for dogs with chicken sensitivities. If your dog is allergic to turkey, lean ground beef or even lamb can be suitable substitutes.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. This recipe gives you a simple, healthy way to show your furry friend some extra love.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!