Save A comforting, nutritious weeknight dinner featuring sweet potatoes baked until tender and loaded with a vibrant mix of toppings for a hearty, hands-off meal.
I first made these loaded baked sweet potatoes for a busy weeknight and was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they turned out. The whole family looks forward to this wholesome dinner, especially with everyone picking their own toppings.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: 4 medium, scrubbed
- Black beans: 1 cup canned, drained and rinsed
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Avocado: 1, diced
- Green onions: 2, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Cheddar cheese (optional): 1/2 cup shredded (use vegan cheese for dairy-free)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): 1/4 cup (use dairy-free alternative if desired)
- Olive oil: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prep and bake potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Place on lined pan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 45<50 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Season black beans:
- In a small saucepan, combine black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Warm over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice and fluff:
- Let potatoes cool slightly. Slice open lengthwise, gently fluff the flesh with a fork.
- Top and serve:
- Add black beans, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and sour cream or yogurt. Serve hot, with extra toppings if desired.
Save My kids love customizing their sweet potatoes, loading up extra cheese or tomatoes. It is always a fun and delicious dinner that brings everyone together.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, small saucepan, fork, knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream or yogurt). Use dairy-free alternatives as needed and check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 375, Total Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 60 g, Protein: 10 g
Save Loaded baked sweet potatoes are endlessly adaptable and make a colorful main dish any night. Top with your favorites for a personalized, satisfying meal.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done baking?
The sweet potatoes are ready when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes 45–50 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute shredded cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to keep it dairy-free and still flavorful.
- → What spices are used to season the black beans?
The black beans are warmed with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create a rich, smoky flavor.
- → What are some optional toppings to enhance flavors?
Additional toppings like diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt add freshness and creaminess.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Adding grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken on top increases protein content and makes the meal heartier.
- → Is there a way to make this spicier?
Adding jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce can introduce a spicy kick to suit your taste preferences.