Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Stuffed sweet potatoes are a healthy, satisfying, and flavorful meal that combines the natural sweetness of the potatoes with savory, zesty fillings. These stuffed sweet potatoes are packed with black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and red onion, all seasoned with cumin and chili powder. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe makes for a wonderful weeknight dinner or a hearty side dish for a gathering. It’s simple to prepare, full of nutrients, and can easily be customized to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato to allow steam to escape as they cook.
3. Rub a thin layer of olive oil over the sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and heated through.
7. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Cut each potato in half and fluff the insides with a fork.
8. Fill each sweet potato half with the bean and vegetable mixture.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the filled sweet potatoes.
10. Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour (45-60 minutes for baking the potatoes, plus an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

1. Vegan Version: Substitute the shredded cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a plant-based meal.
2. Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bean mixture for an extra spicy touch.
3. Additional Veggies: Try adding other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes to the filling for more flavor and nutrients.
4. Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or quinoa to the filling.
5. Toppings: Top the stuffed sweet potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the stuffed sweet potatoes for 1-2 minutes, or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes, then top with cheese and continue baking until cheese melts. If freezing after baking, let the stuffed potatoes cool completely, then wrap and freeze.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
   Yes, you can use regular russet potatoes instead of sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
2. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply bake the sweet potatoes and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.
3. What other cheese can I use instead of cheddar?
   You can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
4. Can I add meat to this recipe?
   Yes, cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be added to the bean and vegetable mixture for added protein.
5. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
   The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork or knife.
6. Can I use frozen corn?
   Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it before adding to the filling mixture.
7. Can I microwave the sweet potatoes instead of baking them?
   Yes, you can microwave the sweet potatoes. Pierce them with a fork and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes per potato, or until tender.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the bean mixture to bring up the heat.
9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it as is without any adjustments.
10. What can I serve with these stuffed sweet potatoes?
    These stuffed sweet potatoes make a great main dish, but you can pair them with a simple side salad, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Stuffed sweet potatoes are an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With a savory filling of black beans, corn, and vegetables, and topped with melty cheddar cheese, these stuffed potatoes are both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of smoky spices and the sweetness of the potatoes makes each bite comforting and flavorful. Whether you enjoy them as a main course or a side, they are sure to be a hit with the whole family!

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