Name: Delicious Sweet Potato Taco Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 lb ground turkey or ground chicken; 1 packet taco seasoning (about 3 tbsp); 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/8 tsp salt; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 4 cups leafy salad greens; 1 bunch cilantro, washed and roughly chopped; 1 large avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Cilantro lime dressing:; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 3 tbsp cilantro, very finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4–1/2 tsp salt; Milk to thin if desired (1 tbsp at a time)

The Sweet Potato Taco Bowl is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a nutrition powerhouse that you can whip up in no time. This vibrant and colorful dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the hearty protein of ground turkey or chicken, all drizzled with a creamy cilantro lime dressing that ties it all together. Perfect for those busy weeknights or meal prepping on Sunday, this dish ensures that you stay on track with your healthy eating while savoring every bite.

One of the biggest appeals of this Sweet Potato Taco Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences, making it a go-to recipe for both meat lovers and those who lean towards plant-based meals. With the wholesome benefits of sweet potatoes, black beans, and fresh greens, your bowl will not only taste good but also provide your body with essential nutrients. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors, from the crispy sweet potatoes to the creamy avocado, inviting you to create your best healthy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Taco Bowl

Flavor Explosion: Each ingredient complements the others, resulting in a well-balanced and delicious mixture of tastes.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish features superfoods like sweet potatoes and black beans for a healthy boost.
Quick and Easy: Made in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Customizable: Swap the proteins or veggies to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making in bulk and refrigerating, this taco bowl keeps well throughout the week.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To start preparing for your Sweet Potato Taco Bowl, ensure your kitchen is organized and ready for action. Gather all the ingredients and tools you’ll need to make the process smooth and enjoyable. You will require:

A large baking sheet for roasting your sweet potatoes.
A skillet for browning the ground turkey or chicken.
A small pot or microwave for warming the black beans.
Bowls for serving the taco bowl and mixing the dressing.

Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This allows your sweet potatoes to get crispy and caramelized while roasting. Make sure all your produce is washed and ready to go, especially the tender leafy greens and cilantro, which will add freshness to the bowl. Having your workspace tidy and all ingredients prepped will make this cooking adventure effortless.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lb ground turkey or ground chicken
1 packet taco seasoning (about 3 tbsp)
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/8 tsp salt
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 cups leafy salad greens
1 bunch cilantro, washed and roughly chopped
1 large avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Cilantro lime dressing:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp mayonnaise
3 tbsp cilantro, very finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4–1/2 tsp salt
Milk to thin if desired (1 tbsp at a time)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Next, in a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated. Take a baking sheet and arrange the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer. This will help them roast evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to achieve that perfect golden crisp.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

While your sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, throw in your ground turkey or chicken. Cook until it turns golden brown, typically around 6-8 minutes. After it’s browned, add the taco seasoning along with a quarter cup of water. Stir everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens, absorbing all the delicious taco flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Black Beans

In a small pot or microwave, warm your drained black beans until heated through. You can season them lightly with salt or keep them plain to let their natural flavor shine through. Set aside once they are ready.

Step 4: Make the Cilantro Lime Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a little milk for desired thinness. This creamy dressing will add a refreshing twist to your taco bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Taco Bowl

Now that all your components are ready, it’s time to assemble! Take large bowls and start layering your leafy salad greens as the base. On top, layer your roasted sweet potatoes, seasoned ground turkey, warm black beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness and vibrancy. Finally, drench your beautiful creation with the cilantro lime dressing just before serving, and enjoy this feast!

Variations

Protein: Swap ground turkey for shredded beef, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add or replace sweet potatoes with zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for a variation in texture and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cumin, smoked paprika, or jalapeño seasoning for a kick.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your sweet potatoes are diced evenly for consistent cooking.
Feel free to prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it for more flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure the sweet potatoes roast properly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the taco bowl with tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy contrast.
Pair with a refreshing drink such as iced tea or a lime-infused soda.

Tips

To add more greens, mix spinach or kale into the leafy salad base.
For an extra layer of flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes along with the sweet potatoes.
You can also prepare the sweet potatoes in advance and warm them up just before serving.
For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the ground turkey with tempeh or a plant-based meat alternative and substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat as desired.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Frozen sweet potatoes can be used, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may need longer to cook through.

What can I serve alongside the taco bowl?

Tortilla chips, a simple side salad, or extra lime wedges make great accompaniments to the taco bowl.

Conclusion

The Sweet Potato Taco Bowl is a go-to recipe that combines wholesome ingredients while being incredibly satisfying and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for those looking to meal prep. With a virtually endless array of customization possibilities, it serves as a canvas for your culinary creativity. We hope you give this dish a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to leave a comment below sharing your variations, and feel free to share this recipe with friends and family who would enjoy a healthy, flavorful dinner option.