Sweet potatoes have become a beloved staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. Their natural sweetness, combined with a variety of fillings, makes them a versatile base for delicious meals. One dish that showcases their potential beautifully is Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Beef, Cheddar, and Guacamole. This comforting recipe combines the earthy flavors of roasted sweet potatoes with savory ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and creamy guacamole, creating an irresistible flavor harmony in each bite. Not only is this meal satisfying, but it also packs a nutritional punch with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful dish for meal prep, this stuffed sweet potato recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s versatile enough to allow for various substitutions and toppings, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to your liking, you’re guaranteed a wholesome meal that’s rich in flavor and nutrients. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious dish that has broad appeal!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Sweet Potato with Beef, Cheddar, and Guacamole
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and fresh guacamole creates a delightful contrast with the sweet potatoes.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beef, healthy fats from the guacamole, and vitamins from sweet potatoes, this meal is wholesome.
- Easy to Make: The preparation is straightforward, perfect for busy weekdays or for impressing guests.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by swapping in different proteins or toppings, tailoring it to your dietary needs.
- Perfect Meal Prep Option: Stuffed sweet potatoes store well, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping for the week.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking your stuffed sweet potatoes with beef, cheddar, and guacamole, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. Start by preheating your oven to ensure it reaches the right temperature for roasting the sweet potatoes. You’ll need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Additionally, have a large skillet ready for cooking the beef and vegetables. Gathering utensils like a fork for piercing the sweet potatoes, a cutting board for chopping vegetables, and measuring cups for the ingredients will streamline your cooking process. Having everything in place and easily accessible will make the cooking experience smoother.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes – 4 medium-sized, washed and scrubbed
- Ground beef – 500g (lean beef works best)
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Guacamole – ½ cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Sour cream – ½ cup
- Tomatoes – ½ cup, diced
- Onion – 1 small, diced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to roast the sweet potatoes. Carefully pierce each sweet potato a few times with a fork; this allows steam to escape and helps them cook evenly. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them for about 40-50 minutes, or until they are tender to the touch and can be easily pierced with a fork. This roasting process enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their flavor, making them the perfect base for your stuffing.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Then, introduce the minced garlic to the pan, allowing it to cook for an additional minute—this brings out its aromatic flavors. The combination of onion and garlic will form a wonderfully fragrant base for your beef mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Next, add the ground beef into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook the beef until it is nicely browned all over, which should take about 7-10 minutes. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, drain it off. The leaner the beef, the less fat you’ll need to worry about. This step ensures that the beef remains the star of your dish, keeping it healthy and flavorful.
Step 4: Season the Beef
With the beef browned, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to ensure the spices evenly coat the meat. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices infuse into the beef, making it truly delicious. Once seasoned, set the beef mixture aside, but keep it warm so that it’s ready to fill the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes
After the sweet potatoes have roasted and cooled slightly, slice each potato lengthwise down the center. Gently flatten the insides using a fork to create a soft base for the stuffing—be careful not to tear the skin. Fill the channel of each sweet potato generously with the seasoned ground beef. Top them off with shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, a spoonful of guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream. Lastly, garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color, making your dish not just tasty but visually appealing as well.
Variations
- Protein: For a healthier option, consider swapping the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Both alternatives still pack a protein punch while reducing overall fat content.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for added vegetables and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices such as taco seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are firm yet tender after roasting; if they’re undercooked, they won’t mash easily.
- Do not skip draining excess fat from the beef, as it helps to keep the stuffing from becoming greasy.
- If using a different protein, manage cooking times accordingly, as leaner meats may cook faster.
- Feel free to customize your toppings based on personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- These stuffed sweet potatoes are delicious as a standalone meal, but they pair wonderfully with a side salad for added freshness.
- Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or black beans to round out the meal.
Tips
- If you’re preparing these for meal prep, store the sweet potatoes and the beef mixture separately until ready to reheat.
- For a vegetarian option, opt for black beans, lentils, or tofu as a filling instead of beef.
- Make sure to wait a few minutes after pulling the sweet potatoes from the oven before assembling them; this helps avoid burns when handling.
- Feel free to play with toppings to include items like corn, jalapeños, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per stuffed potato (including fillings)
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I make these stuffed sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and beef mixture in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are typically lower in calories and carbohydrates and are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a healthier choice overall.
Can I freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes?
Yes, once assembled, you can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes before baking them. Wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What toppings can I use for variations?
You can use various toppings like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, toppled with salsa, or substitute different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for added flavor.
Conclusion
The Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Beef, Cheddar, Guacamole, and Sour Cream recipe is not just a meal; it’s a gathering of flavors that appeal to the senses and comforts the soul. The harmony between sweet and savory is a culinary delight, making them a winning option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Embrace the chance to customize them to your palate, and don’t hesitate to try new toppings or fillings. As you savor each bite, let this dish inspire you to explore more recipes that celebrate wholesome ingredients and rich flavors. We encourage you to comment, share your thoughts, or tell us about your variations. Happy cooking!
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Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Beef, Cheddar, and Guacamole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This dish features roasted sweet potatoes stuffed with savory beef, cheddar cheese, and creamy guacamole for a wholesome and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes – 4 medium-sized, washed and scrubbed
- Ground beef – 500g (lean beef works best)
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Guacamole – ½ cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Sour cream – ½ cup
- Tomatoes – ½ cup, diced
- Onion – 1 small, diced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to roast the sweet potatoes. Carefully pierce each sweet potato a few times with a fork; this allows steam to escape and helps them cook evenly. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them for about 40-50 minutes, or until they are tender to the touch and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Then, introduce the minced garlic to the pan, allowing it to cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook the beef until it is nicely browned all over, about 7-10 minutes. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, drain it off.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices infuse into the beef.
- After the sweet potatoes have roasted and cooled slightly, slice each potato lengthwise down the center. Gently flatten the insides using a fork. Fill each sweet potato with the seasoned ground beef, top with cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, guacamole, and sour cream, garnishing with cilantro.
Notes
Ensure sweet potatoes are firm yet tender after roasting; drain excess fat from the beef to keep the stuffing from becoming greasy. Customize your toppings based on personal preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 24 g