Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Name: Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

I love making Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for a satisfying dinner that’s loaded with flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and a savory beef filling makes for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up, taking just a short amount of time! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and it can easily be customized to suit your taste. Let me show you how to bring this delicious dish to your table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:30:28.331Z

When I first made Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, I didn't expect it to become a weekly staple in my kitchen. The balance of the sweet and savory flavors truly surprised me. I found that using freshly cooked ground beef along with spices like cumin and chili powder made all the difference, imparting a rich taste that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the potatoes.

Over time, I've tried various toppings, from shredded cheese to avocado, and each adds its own flair. One tip I’d recommend is to bake the sweet potatoes until they’re very tender, so they can easily absorb all the delicious beef filling. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

Understanding Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great foundation for this dish. Their natural sweetness complements the savory beef filling beautifully. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and have smooth skin. This will ensure a creamier texture once baked. If you notice any soft spots or wrinkles, it's best to choose a different one since these could signal age and affect the cooking outcome.

When baking sweet potatoes, wrapping them in foil can help retain moisture, but this isn’t necessary for this recipe as we aim for crispy skin. If you prefer a caramelized exterior, leave them unwrapped during baking. The exterior will develop a lovely texture while the insides become soft and fluffy, ideal for stuffing with the flavorful beef mixture.

Enhancing the Beef Filling

The beef filling is where you can really make this dish your own. Ground beef is the star, but you can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The seasonings—cumin and chili powder—add depth of flavor, but feel free to adjust their amounts based on your taste preference. For instance, if you enjoy heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

To achieve the best texture, make sure the beef is broken down into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures even distribution within each sweet potato and prevents large clumps. Cooking it until just browned not only gives a fantastic flavor but also prevents it from becoming tough. Stirring in the diced tomatoes at the end not only enhances the moisture but also contributes a fresh brightness to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Chopped green onions for garnish

Have all your ingredients ready for a delightful cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:

Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Prepare the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, then add the ground beef. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, then stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are done, carefully slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon the beef mixture into each potato and top with shredded cheese. Return to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your satisfying Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture while cooking. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover the sweet potatoes with foil to prevent them from drying out and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This gentle reheating mimics the original baking process, preserving the integrity of the sweet potatoes and the filling.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed sweet potatoes before baking. Wrap each stuffed potato tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated all the way through.

Serving Suggestions

These beefy stuffed sweet potatoes are versatile in presentation and taste. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a sweet tang. Fresh cilantro or parsley can also elevate the dish with a pop of color and freshness. You might also consider adding avocado slices or a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

If you want to turn this recipe into a complete meal, consider pairing the stuffed sweet potatoes with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette can complement the richness of the beef filling and sweet potatoes, rounding out your dinner perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed sweet potatoes vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can swap out the ground beef for black beans or lentils and add more vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Wrap each potato in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with Beefy Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

Side dishes like a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this dish.