Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

I absolutely love this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe because it combines comfort with a little fiesta in every bite. The blend of savory ground beef seasoned just right, paired with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both filling and healthy. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to whip up without any fuss, which I know we all need sometimes.

When I first tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to customize and how my whole family went crazy for it. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a cozy meal that tastes like a celebration, you’ll find that this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe hits the spot every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy & Filling: Sweet potatoes packed with seasoned beef make this a nutritious and satisfying meal.
  • Easy Weeknight Dinner: Simple steps and common ingredients keep this recipe doable after a busy day.
  • Customizable Flavors: Make it mild or spicy and swap out toppings to suit your taste preferences.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats beautifully and keeps well for quick lunches or dinners all week long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe work so well together because they balance hearty, savory elements with fresh, zesty accompaniments. Shopping tip: pick sweet potatoes that are wide rather than skinny—they’re easier to stuff and hold all your flavorful filling perfectly.

  • Sweet potatoes: Choose medium-sized, wide ones for easy stuffing and even baking.
  • Grass-fed ground beef: I love this for its rich flavor and better nutritional profile.
  • Onions (diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the taco filling.
  • Garlic (minced): A must for that iconic savory aroma.
  • Tomato sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought; it adds moisture and a mild tang.
  • Cumin powder, coriander powder, onion powder, smoked paprika: This blend gives the filling a warm, smoky taco flavor.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: For seasoning to taste.
  • Olive oil: For sautéing and added richness.
  • Water or beef broth: Keeps the filling juicy as it simmers.
  • Tomatoes (for salsa): Fresh and diced for a refreshing touch.
  • Red onion (for salsa): Adds crunch and a mild bite.
  • Green bell pepper: Brings sweetness and color.
  • Jalapeño: Optional heat — remove seeds if you prefer it milder.
  • Fresh cilantro: I add this for brightness, but it’s totally optional.
  • Fresh lime juice: A splash of acidity to elevate the salsa.
  • Small garlic clove: Adds punch to the fresh salsa.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how versatile this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is—you can easily swap the beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein to fit different diets or preferences. Feel free to adjust the spice level or add whatever toppings you like best!

  • Protein swap: I once tried ground turkey instead of beef, and it still tasted fantastic—lean and just as flavorful!
  • Vegetarian option: Use black beans or lentils seasoned with the same spices for an equally tasty meatless version.
  • Spice it up: Add chipotle powder or extra jalapeño if you love a little smoky heat.
  • Cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.

How to Make Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Roast Your Sweet Potatoes to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Give your sweet potatoes a good scrub and dry them thoroughly—this helps the skin get nice and tender but not soggy. Prick them all over with a fork (don’t skip this—it keeps steam from building up inside). Place them on a lined baking sheet, and roast for 50-60 minutes until the potatoes feel soft when you press them gently or can be pierced easily through the center with your fork.

Step 2: Cook the Taco Beef Filling

While your sweet potatoes are roasting, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned with no pink showing. Then, reduce the heat to medium and toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Next, add the cumin, coriander, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper—this spice mix is key to that deep taco flavor.

Pour in your tomato sauce and half a cup of water or beef broth, stir everything to combine, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through so nothing sticks to the pan, and let those flavors marry beautifully.

Step 3: Make Your Fresh Salsa

While your filling simmers, mix up the fresh salsa by combining diced tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, jalapeño, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This salsa adds a fresh and zesty crunch that pairs perfectly with the warm, savory filling.

Step 4: Assemble Your Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and soft, slice each one down the center lengthwise, fluff the inside a little with a fork, and generously fill them with your taco beef mixture. Top with a big spoonful of fresh salsa and any extra garnishes you like. Serve immediately and enjoy that amazing blend of sweet, spicy, and fresh flavors!

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Pro Tips for Making Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

  • Choose the Right Sweet Potato: I discovered that wider sweet potatoes are so much easier to stuff and hold up better during baking—look for ones about the size of your hand.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let your cooked beef mixture simmer low and slow to really deepen those flavors—I used to rush this, but it’s totally worth the extra 20 minutes.
  • Fresh Salsa Magic: Making your own salsa adds a fresh crunch and brightness that cuts through the richness—a store-bought salsa works in a pinch, but fresh wins every time.
  • Store Separately for Best Texture: Avoid soggy sweet potatoes by storing the baked potatoes and filling separately if you’re meal prepping.

How to Serve Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

A halved sweet potato with its deep orange flesh forms the base layer, resting on a white plate on a white marbled surface. On top of the sweet potato is a thick layer of seasoned ground meat, rich brown and crumbly in texture. Above the meat is a fresh, chunky salsa made of diced green avocado, red tomato, and white onion, all speckled with bits of chopped green herbs. Slices of bright green jalapeño peppers lay beside the sweet potato on the plate. The colors are vivid and the textures contrast from soft to crisp. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping mine with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Sometimes, I throw on some shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco to add a creamy, cheesy touch. Avocado slices or a few pickled jalapeños also make fantastic additions if you want to mix things up.

Side Dishes

I usually keep sides simple with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies—think seasoned broccoli or sautéed zucchini. On occasion, I pair these stuffed sweet potatoes with homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for a fun taco night vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I’ve served these in small cast-iron skillets or placed them on colorful platters surrounded by bowls of toppings to let everyone build their own “stuffed” masterpiece. It’s a fun way to make the meal interactive and vibrant!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After making this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe, I usually store leftover filling and sweet potatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the potatoes from getting mushy and the filling fresh. It’s a great way to enjoy quick lunches all week without compromising texture.

Freezing

I’ve found that freezing the beef filling and sweet potatoes separately works best. Wrap the potatoes tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag along with the filling in airtight containers or bags. They keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, microwave works beautifully—heat the filling and sweet potato separately, then assemble just before eating. If you want crispy edges, pop the sweet potatoes under the broiler for a few minutes after warming. This little trick keeps things tasting fresh.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe vegetarian?

    Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just season and cook them the same way for a delicious meat-free version.

  2. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done baking?

    Sweet potatoes are done when you can easily pierce through the center with a fork or knife without resistance and the skin feels soft to the touch. Usually, 50-60 minutes at 400°F does the trick.

  3. Can I use a store-bought salsa for this recipe?

    Yes, store-bought salsa is a fine shortcut—just make sure it’s fresh and flavorful. However, homemade salsa brings a bright, fresh taste that really elevates the dish.

  4. How long can I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep sweet potatoes and filling separate to maintain the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe quickly became one of my go-to comfort meals that I’m happy to share with friends because of its simplicity and versatility. If you want a meal that feels special without hours in the kitchen, this is it. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy the balance of sweet and savory flavors along with the fresh pop of salsa. I promise, once you make it, it’ll be on repeat for busy weeknights and casual dinners alike.

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Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 102 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Description

These Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes combine tender, oven-baked sweet potatoes with a flavorful ground beef taco filling and a fresh, zesty homemade salsa. This wholesome and satisfying meal is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, offering a delicious twist on traditional tacos with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes balancing the savory spices.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Sweet Potatoes

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes

Taco Beef Filling

  • 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
  • 1 cup onions, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 teaspoons cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth

Salsa

  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon jalapeno, chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, preparing it for baking the sweet potatoes.
  2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them completely with a towel. Using a fork, poke holes all over each sweet potato to allow steam to escape while baking. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Bake Sweet Potatoes: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until they are tender and can be easily pierced through to the center with a fork.
  4. Cook Taco Ground Beef: While the sweet potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Reduce heat to medium, then add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent.
  5. Add Spices and Sauce: Stir in cumin, coriander, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to combine evenly. Pour in the tomato sauce and water (or beef broth). Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure flavors meld.
  6. Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, chopped jalapeno, minced garlic, lime juice, and chopped cilantro (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside. Refrigerate if preparing in advance.
  7. Assemble Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are baked and warm, slice them lengthwise down the center. Gently fluff the interior with a fork and fill each potato with the prepared taco beef mixture. Top generously with the fresh salsa.
  8. Serve or Store: Serve immediately for best flavor, or store the stuffed sweet potatoes and salsa separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave until hot before serving.

Notes

  • Choose wide sweet potatoes for easier stuffing compared to long, thin varieties.
  • Store-bought salsa can be used as a convenient alternative to homemade salsa.
  • Make sure to scrub and dry the sweet potatoes well before baking to remove dirt and improve skin texture.
  • Leftovers should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The stuffing and sweet potatoes can be stored together or separately.
  • To reheat, use a microwave until the filling and sweet potatoes are heated through.
  • You can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes or the taco filling separately or together in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed sweet potato
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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