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 after a busy weekday, craving something filling but light. They turned out to be a satisfying balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors that turned a simple potato into a vibrant meal.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed, 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 avocado, diced, 2 green onions, thinly sliced, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Dairy (optional): 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (use vegan cheese for dairy-free), 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (use dairy-free alternative if desired)
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Place on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake Sweet Potatoes:
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Warm the Beans:
- While the potatoes bake, combine black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice and Fluff:
- When the potatoes are done, let cool slightly. Slice each sweet potato open lengthwise and gently fluff the flesh with a fork.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Top each potato with black beans, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Serve hot, with additional toppings as desired.
Save My family loves loading up their sweet potatoes with different toppings. Everyone grabs their favorite—my kids go for extra cheese while I heap on cilantro and avocado. These potatoes always spark big smiles and fun dinner table chatter.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, small saucepan, fork, and knife are all you need to make these potatoes perfectly every time.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, or yogurt). Use dairy-free alternatives if needed and always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 375 calories, 11 g total fat, 60 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein. Nutritional values may vary based on toppings and ingredients used.
Save Loaded baked sweet potatoes make a cheerful, satisfying centerpiece for your weeknight table. Try them with creative toppings and enjoy every nourishing bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long does it take to bake the sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes bake for 45–50 minutes at 400°F until tender and easy to pierce with a fork.
- → Can I prepare the toppings ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the black beans with spices and chop fresh ingredients in advance for quick assembly after baking.
- → What spices enhance the flavor best?
A combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder adds warmth and depth without overpowering the natural sweetness.
- → Are there variations for different diets?
Indeed, use vegan cheese and dairy-free cream alternatives to keep it plant-based and suitable for lactose intolerance.
- → What additional toppings complement this dish?
Fresh cilantro, green onions, and diced avocado add freshness, while an extra sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream provides creaminess.