Welcome! Today, we’re delving into a delicious and comforting meal—Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Ground Beef, Cheddar, Guacamole, and Sour Cream. This recipe masterfully blends savory, creamy, and tangy flavors, all served atop the hearty base of roasted sweet potatoes. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, offering a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or looking to impress at your next dinner party, these stuffed sweet potatoes are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive right into this recipe!
Why Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a Must-Try
Stuffed sweet potatoes have surged in popularity, and for good reason. They’re incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your tastes or dietary preferences. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, creamy guacamole, and tangy sour cream makes this recipe extra satisfying. Plus, the natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes adds a delicious contrast to the savory toppings.
Besides being tasty, sweet potatoes are packed with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish not only flavorful but also nutritious. It’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even special occasions!
Ingredients for Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Ground Beef
To whip up these flavorful Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, washed and scrubbed
- 500g lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup guacamole (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Substitution options:
- For a leaner version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cheddar and sour cream alternatives.
How to Make Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Ground Beef, Cheddar, Guacamole, and Sour Cream
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork, then place them on a baking sheet. Roast the sweet potatoes for 40-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when poked with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While the potatoes are roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. If needed, drain excess fat from the skillet.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the beef mixture to cook for 2-3 more minutes, giving the spices time to blend with the meat. Once seasoned, set the beef aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and gently mash the insides with a fork, being careful not to tear the skins.
Fill each sweet potato half with a generous portion of the seasoned beef mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, a spoonful of guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
Serve immediately and savor every bite of this delicious, flavor-packed dish!
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Choose the right potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes as they cook evenly and are easy to work with. Larger potatoes may take longer to roast.
- Homemade guacamole: While store-bought guacamole is convenient, making your own fresh guacamole from ripe avocados, lime juice, and salt will add a fresh, vibrant flavor to your stuffed potatoes.
- Topping versatility: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Add jalapeños for extra heat or swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or crumbled queso fresco for a twist.
Flavor Boosting Cooking Tips
- Roast garlic with the potatoes: Toss a few garlic cloves in foil and roast them alongside the sweet potatoes. When mashed, the roasted garlic adds a delicious depth to the potato flesh.
- Spice it up: For those who like it spicy, feel free to add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Crispy beef: For an extra texture contrast, allow the beef to sit undisturbed in the pan for a few minutes after seasoning to develop a crispy crust.
Serving Suggestions
These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are delicious and hearty enough on their own, but you can pair them with:
- A crisp side salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps to balance the richness of the stuffed potatoes.
- Mexican or cilantro lime rice: Serve alongside rice to enhance the southwest-inspired flavors of the meal.
- Grilled corn on the cob: A summery favorite that pairs wonderfully with the flavors in this dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
This dish is well-balanced with nutrients, offering a filling and nutritious meal. Sweet potatoes provide slow-digesting carbs and fiber, while ground beef adds a good dose of protein.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Pro Tip: If you’re saving leftovers, keep the guacamole and sour cream separate. Add them fresh after reheating to maintain their creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meatless option like tofu or tempeh.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the top of your sweet potatoes. You can also increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
Can I freeze stuffed sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the roasted sweet potatoes and ground beef separately. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat and add fresh toppings before serving.
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Conclusion
These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Ground Beef, Cheddar, Guacamole, and Sour Cream are a comforting, hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and a burst of flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re preparing them for meal prep or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these stuffed sweet potatoes will leave everyone satisfied.