Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Highlighted under: Classic Cozy Cuisine
I absolutely love this Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe because it's a delightful combination of savory beef and sweet, tender potatoes. The first time I made it, I was surprised by how easy and satisfying it was to prepare. The earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the rich beef perfectly, making it a wholesome meal that everyone at the table enjoys. It's great for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, and it’s packed with nutrients too!
When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something that not only tasted great but also packed a nutritional punch. The sweet potatoes serve as a hearty base, rich in vitamins and minerals. Pairing them with ground beef not only adds flavor but also provides protein to help keep you satisfied longer.
A tip I discovered is to mash a bit of the sweet potato flesh back into the filling. It creates a creamy texture that binds everything beautifully. Plus, the colors are so vibrant, making every plate look appetizing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich blend of flavors with hearty ground beef
- Sweet potatoes add a delightful natural sweetness
- Great for meal prep and versatile for toppings
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
When selecting sweet potatoes for this recipe, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of any blemishes. The color can vary, but I often prefer the orange-fleshed varieties for their sweetness and creaminess. If you're in a pinch, purple or white sweet potatoes can work as well, though they may alter the flavor profile slightly. Size also matters; medium potatoes will yield a good balance with the amount of filling, so try to avoid any that are too large or small.
In terms of preparation, don't skip the step of pricking the sweet potatoes with a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking, preventing them from bursting in the oven. Aim for a baking time of 45-50 minutes, but check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide through easily when they’re fully cooked. If you're short on time, microwaving the sweet potatoes for 5-8 minutes before baking can significantly reduce overall cooking time.
Perfecting the Beef Filling
The beef filling for these stuffed sweet potatoes is where the flavor truly develops. Using ground beef with a little fat, preferably 80/20, will yield a juicy filling. Don't hesitate to experiment with spices; the paprika and cumin add warmth, but a pinch of chili powder can elevate it further without overwhelming the dish. Don't rush the cooking process; allow the onions to become translucent and slightly caramelized to enhance the sweetness of the overall filling.
If you want to make this dish even heartier, consider adding vegetables to the beef filling, such as bell peppers or zucchini. Dice them small and add them in with the onions so they soften evenly. Additionally, if you're looking for a healthier option, lean turkey, or plant-based ground meat can substitute well for beef; just be mindful to adjust cooking times as necessary, as they may cook quicker than the beef.
Serving and Storing Leftovers
Serving these Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes is a chance to get creative. I love adding toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh salsa to bring extra freshness and flavor. If you're hosting, a sprinkle of green onions or a squeeze of lime can elevate the dish further. This versatility also makes it perfect for meal prep; you can pack these stuffed sweet potatoes for lunch during the week.
For leftovers, store any unconsumed stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes for best results, or the microwave for a quicker option. If you want to freeze them, wrap each stuffed potato tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months frozen; reheat directly from the freezer, allowing extra time as needed.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting meal.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:
Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick each sweet potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender.
Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Once it is browned, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft.
Mix Filling and Sweet Potato
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them open lengthwise and scoop out some flesh, mixing it with the beef filling. Stir in half of the cheese.
Stuff and Bake Again
Spoon the beef mixture back into the sweet potato skins. Top with remaining cheese and return to the oven to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy! These stuffed sweet potatoes are best served warm.
Enjoy your hearty meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some diced tomatoes or jalapeños into the beef mixture. You can also switch out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only satisfying but also nutrient-rich. Sweet potatoes provide a significant amount of vitamins A and C, along with fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, ground beef contributes essential protein, iron, and B vitamins, making this a balanced meal worthy of any dinner table. Pairing these ingredients ensures you're getting a variety of nutrients that support overall health.
If you're mindful of your caloric intake or dietary goals, consider using half sweet potatoes and half cauliflower to create a lower-carb option. This swap still maintains a level of sweetness and texture, while reducing calories significantly. For an additional boost, consider serving a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, to complement the dish with more vitamins and minerals.
Flavor Variations
If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, try varying the cheese types in the recipe. While cheddar is a crowd-pleaser, pepper jack can add a spicy kick, and feta can introduce a tangy element. You can also mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the beef filling for a different taste influence. Feel free to adapt the seasonings further by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth or hot sauce for some heat.
Craving a different vibe? Transform this dish into a Tex-Mex experience by adding black beans and corn to the beef mixture, and then top with avocado or pico de gallo. Not only does this give your stuffed potatoes a fun twist, but it also enhances the overall nutrient profile with additional fiber and vitamins.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prep the filling in advance?
Yes! You can make the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the sweet potatoes.
→ How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
They should be very soft when pierced with a fork. If they’re still hard, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
→ Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.
→ What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to top with sour cream, avocado, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
I absolutely love this Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe because it's a delightful combination of savory beef and sweet, tender potatoes. The first time I made it, I was surprised by how easy and satisfying it was to prepare. The earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the rich beef perfectly, making it a wholesome meal that everyone at the table enjoys. It's great for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, and it’s packed with nutrients too!
Created by: Keira Dalton
Recipe Type: Classic Cozy Cuisine
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick each sweet potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Once it is browned, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them open lengthwise and scoop out some flesh, mixing it with the beef filling. Stir in half of the cheese.
Spoon the beef mixture back into the sweet potato skins. Top with remaining cheese and return to the oven to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy! These stuffed sweet potatoes are best served warm.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some diced tomatoes or jalapeños into the beef mixture. You can also switch out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 24g