Description
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Take taco night to a whole new level with these nutritious, flavor-packed Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes! Not only are they quick to make—ready in just 20 minutes—but they’re also a healthier twist on the classic taco night. Sweet potatoes make the perfect vessel for your favorite taco toppings while adding a boost of vitamins and fiber. Plus, they’re great for sneaking extra veggies into your family’s diet without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re a die-hard taco lover or simply want to spice up your dinner routine, these stuffed sweet potatoes are a must-try!
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup chunky salsa
1/4-1/2 cup water
4 medium sweet potatoes
Toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomato, diced avocado, sour cream (optional)
Directions:
1. Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet. Drain grease, then add taco seasoning, salsa, and water. Cook until thickened.
2. Microwave sweet potatoes for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Slice open and fluff insides.
3. Spoon taco meat over potatoes, add toppings, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 493 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Thoroughly scrub 4 medium sweet potatoes. Pierce each several times with a fork. Microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until tender. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes.
2. Cook the Taco Filling: While potatoes cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. Season the Filling: Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 cup of chunky salsa, and 1/4 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, adding a little more water if needed, until the mixture is heated through and has a thick, saucy consistency.
4. Assemble: Once sweet potatoes are cooked, slice each one open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon a generous amount of the taco meat mixture over each potato.
5. Add Toppings & Serve: Immediately top with shredded cheese, diced tomato, diced avocado, sour cream, or any other favorite taco toppings. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes are a complete meal on their own. For a larger spread, serve them with a simple side salad with a lime-cilantro dressing, a bowl of tortilla chips and extra salsa, or black beans seasoned with cumin. They also make excellent next-day leftovers; store components separately and reheat the potato and meat before assembling.
How-to Summary
Microwave or bake sweet potatoes until tender. In parallel, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain fat, then mix in taco seasoning, salsa, and water to create a thick filling. Split the cooked potatoes, fluff the flesh, top with the taco meat, and finish with your favorite fresh toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work perfectly. For a vegetarian version, use two cans of drained and rinsed black beans or lentils.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store the cooked taco meat and sweet potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the potato in the microwave and the meat in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Can I make this recipe in the oven only? Yes. Bake the sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes. Prepare the meat mixture on the stovetop while they bake.
Is there a way to reduce the sodium? Use a low-sodium taco seasoning packet, or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Choose a no-salt-added salsa.
What other toppings do you recommend? Try pickled jalapeños, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, corn, or a drizzle of hot sauce or crema.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking the Sweet Potatoes: Ensure they are very tender all the way through for the best texture.
- Not Draining the Meat: Skipping this step leaves excess grease, making the filling oily.
- Adding Too Much Water: Start with 1/4 cup when making the taco meat sauce; you can always add more if it’s too thick.
- Skipping the Fluffing Step: Gently fluffing the potato insides with a fork creates a better surface for the filling to settle into.
Conclusion
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate weeknight dinner hack, successfully combining comfort food with nutritious ingredients. They are endlessly customizable, family-friendly, and deliver the beloved flavors of taco night in a wholesome, satisfying package. This recipe proves that a delicious, balanced meal can be on the table in just 20 minutes. Give it a try and revolutionize your dinner routine.