Easy Stuffed Taco Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry's)
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 large sweet potatoes, or 4 to 6 medium to small sweet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small yellow onion, cut into small dice
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Pico de gallo
• Jalapeno slices
• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

1. Prepare Taco Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, seasoning salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to blend all the spices together. Set aside.
2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Rub each sweet potato with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Wrap each sweet potato individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven until fork-tender, about 40 minutes.
3. Cook the Beef: While the sweet potatoes bake, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef along with 1/4 cup of taco seasoning. Cook the beef, stirring frequently, until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Break up any clumps with a spatula as the beef cooks.
4. Add Black Beans: Stir in the black beans and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
5. Thicken the Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the beef and bean mixture. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the Dish: Once the sweet potatoes are done, slice each open and add a pinch of taco seasoning to the inside of each. Spoon the beef and bean mixture into the center of the sweet potatoes.
7. Add Toppings: Top the stuffed sweet potatoes with shredded cheese, pico de gallo, jalapeno slices, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro. You can also sprinkle additional taco seasoning over the top for extra flavor.
8. Serve: Serve the sweet potato taco bowls immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	655
Total Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	101mg
Sodium	1887mg
Total Carbohydrate	52g
Dietary Fiber	15g
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	42g
Vitamin C	23mg
Calcium	202mg
Iron	11mg
Potassium	1539mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Stuffed Taco Sweet Potatoes

The combination of tacos and sweet potatoes may seem modern, but it reflects a long tradition of culinary creativity in Mexican-inspired cuisine. Tacos themselves date back centuries in Mexico, where tortillas were stuffed with a variety of fillings, from beans and meats to vegetables and cheeses. Sweet potatoes, native to Central and South America, have long been valued for their natural sweetness and versatility. The idea of merging a classic taco with a baked sweet potato likely emerged in contemporary home cooking as a healthier, gluten-free alternative to traditional tortillas, offering a nutrient-rich base while preserving the bold flavors of taco seasonings.

Regional Variations and Influences

This recipe reflects a fusion of southwestern and Mexican culinary influences. In regions such as California, Texas, and New Mexico, chefs often experiment with traditional Mexican dishes by incorporating local produce like sweet potatoes. In these areas, the stuffed sweet potato may be topped with avocado, fresh cilantro, and pico de gallo, highlighting the abundance of fresh ingredients. In contrast, in northern regions of the U.S., variations may include cheese-heavy toppings or spiced beans that cater to local palates. Each region adapts the recipe slightly, making it uniquely reflective of local tastes while staying true to the taco essence.

Differences From Similar Dishes

While traditional tacos rely on tortillas, and stuffed peppers or zucchini boats rely on vegetable shells, the stuffed taco sweet potato stands out due to its combination of natural sweetness and heartiness. Unlike regular baked potatoes used in loaded potato recipes, sweet potatoes provide a subtly sweet counterpoint to the spiced meat and beans. Additionally, unlike standard tacos, the stuffing process allows for a more cohesive flavor profile and a visually striking presentation, where the toppings remain layered and vibrant, enhancing both taste and aesthetic appeal.

Where This Dish is Commonly Served

Stuffed taco sweet potatoes are popular in casual dining settings, family dinners, and health-conscious meal plans. They often appear on menus at modern Mexican-inspired eateries, farm-to-table restaurants, and vegetarian-friendly cafes, sometimes as a main course or a hearty side dish. At home, they are a favorite for taco night alternatives, offering a gluten-free, nutrient-dense option that appeals to both adults and children. Their versatility also makes them ideal for meal prepping, as they maintain flavor and texture even when reheated.

Fun Facts About Stuffed Taco Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet potatoes are naturally high in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, making this dish both indulgent and nutritious.
• The combination of black beans and ground beef adds a protein-rich layer that balances the sweetness of the potato.
• The recipe is highly customizable: it can be made vegan by substituting plant-based meat and cheese or kept keto-friendly by limiting beans and toppings.
• Despite its recent popularity, the concept of stuffing vegetables with taco fillings has roots in Mexican home cooking, where peppers, squash, and even fruits were used as edible vessels.
• Using sweet potatoes instead of tortillas increases the dish's visual appeal, turning a standard taco meal into a colorful and Instagram-worthy plate.

FAQ about Easy Stuffed Taco Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Comments