Introducing a savory twist on a classic side, the Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes recipe. A delightful combination of hearty sweet potatoes, crisp vegetables, and zesty southwestern flavors that is perfect for a filling lunch, dinner, or a unique side dish.
This recipe includes a few ingredients you might not typically have in your pantry like queso fresco and pickled jalapenos. Queso fresco is a Mexican cheese that's crumbly and mild in flavor, often found in the specialty cheese or international food aisle. Pickled jalapenos, on the other hand, are jalapeno peppers that have been preserved in vinegar and salt. They add a pop of tangy heat and can be found in the pickle or international food aisle as well.
Ingredients for Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
sweet potatoes: High in vitamins and fiber, sweet potatoes form the hearty base of this dish. olive oil: Used for sautéing the veggies, it adds a light, savory layer to the dish. red onion: Brings a sharp bite and aromatic flavor. green bell pepper: Adds a crisp texture and mild, sweet flavor. black beans: Provide protein and are a staple in southwestern cuisine. sweet corn: Adds a touch of sweetness to contrast the savory components. queso fresco: A Mexican cheese that adds a mild, creamy element. salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors. fresh cilantro: Gives a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. browned chorizo: Mexican sausage that adds a spicy, meaty dimension. pickled jalapenos: Bring tangy heat to the dish. sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy balance to the spice. diced scallions: Their light oniony flavor gives a fresh finish.
One reader, Brier Witte says:
I recently tried the twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes recipe and it was a game-changer! The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and queso fresco was absolutely delicious. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the dish was so satisfying. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try!
Techniques for Making the Perfect Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
How to cook the sweet potatoes: The sweet potatoes can be baked in the oven or microwaved. If baking, poke holes in them with a fork and bake at 375°F for 45 to 60 minutes until tender. If microwaving, poke holes in them and microwave for two 5-minute intervals on high.
How to make the filling: In a skillet, cook the onions, bell pepper, black beans, and sweet corn in olive oil over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
How to stuff the sweet potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, split them open with a knife and use a fork to mash up the sweet potato flesh. Then, add queso fresco to each potato and divide the sautéed filling among the potatoes.
How to bake the sweet potatoes: Bake the stuffed sweet potatoes for 20 minutes at 350°F.
How to serve: Serve the sweet potatoes with optional ingredients such as browned chorizo, pickled jalapenos, sour cream, diced scallions, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in the fridge for 4 to 5 days and reheated in the oven.
How To Make Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
These sweet potatoes are baked twice for softer and more creamy sides that’s loaded with filling beans, corn, and queso fresco!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4½medium sweet potatoes
- 1tbspolive oil
- ½medium red onion,diced
- ½green bell pepper,diced
- 1cupblack beans,rinsed well
- ½cupsweet corn,fresh or frozen
- 1cupqueso fresco,crumbled
- ¼tspsalt
- ¼tspblack pepper
- fresh cilantro,for garnish
- chorizo,browned
- pickled jalapenos
- sour cream
- scallions,diced
Instructions
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Poke some holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork.
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Bake them at 375 degrees F for 45 to 60 minutes until they are very tender and give easily to a fork poke.*
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In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, followed by onions, bell pepper, black beans, and sweet corn.
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Season with salt and pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften, but aren’t browned at all. Remove from heat.
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When sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, split them open with a knife and use a fork to mash up the sweet potato flesh.
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Once the sweet potato flesh is mashed, add some queso fresco to each potato and divide the sautéed filling among the potatoes. Top with any extra cheese, if desired.
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Bake the sweet potatoes for 20 minutes at 350 degrees F.
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Serve with chorizo, jalapeno, sour cream, or just a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- *Alternatively, microwave the potatoes for two 5-minute intervals on high. They will be very hot after they come out, and the skin won’t be quite as good as the baked version, but it works well for this recipe.
- Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes will store well in the fridge for 4 to 5 days and reheat best in the oven.
Nutrition
- Calories: 437.27kcal
- Fat: 11.71g
- Saturated Fat: 4.69g
- Trans Fat: 0.26g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.43g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.11g
- Carbohydrates: 66.14g
- Fiber: 12.87g
- Sugar: 9.94g
- Protein: 19.24g
- Cholesterol: 21.04mg
- Sodium: 462.34mg
- Calcium: 283.91mg
- Potassium: 1362.74mg
- Iron: 3.65mg
- Vitamin A: 1118.82µg
- Vitamin C: 18.19mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
When preparing the sweet potatoes, ensure you poke enough holes in them before baking or microwaving. This allows the heat to penetrate evenly, ensuring the potatoes cook thoroughly and evenly. Additionally, when mashing the sweet potato flesh, try to keep some texture rather than making it completely smooth. This will add an interesting texture to the final dish. Lastly, when reheating the leftover stuffed sweet potatoes, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out while the inside heats up.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Southwestern Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and sautéed vegetables in advance, so when it's time to assemble and bake the sweet potatoes, you can simply stuff and bake them without the extra prep work.
Uniform size: Choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size to ensure they cook evenly and are ready at the same time. This will help streamline the cooking process and save time.
Microwave shortcut: Use the microwave method for cooking the sweet potatoes if you're short on time. It's a quick alternative to oven-baking and can expedite the overall cooking process.
Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of the stuffed sweet potatoes and store the extras for later. This way, you'll have ready-made meals that can be quickly reheated, saving time on future meal preparation.
Prep organization: Organize and prepare all the ingredients and kitchen tools before starting the recipe. This will help streamline the cooking process and make it more efficient.
Multi-task: While the sweet potatoes are baking, use that time to prepare the filling and other toppings. This way, you can make the most of your time in the kitchen and have everything ready to go when the sweet potatoes are done.
Substitute Ingredients For Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes Recipe
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor and can be prepared in the same way as sweet potatoes in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to red onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can add a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color, making them a great substitute for green bell peppers in this recipe.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable alternative to black beans in this recipe.
sweet corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh sweet corn in this recipe, providing a similar sweet and crunchy texture.
queso fresco - Substitute with cotija cheese: Cotija cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a good substitute for queso fresco in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt can add a savory flavor with a hint of garlic, enhancing the overall seasoning of the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick and depth of flavor similar to black pepper in this recipe.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, especially for those who prefer an alternative to cilantro.
chorizo - Substitute with soyrizo: Soyrizo is a plant-based alternative to chorizo, offering a similar spicy and flavorful profile for those seeking a vegetarian or vegan option.
pickled jalapenos - Substitute with fresh jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos can be used as a substitute for pickled jalapenos, providing a spicy and vibrant flavor to the dish.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can offer a creamy and tangy alternative to sour cream, adding a rich texture and flavor to the dish.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color, serving as a suitable substitute for scallions in this recipe.
Presentation Ideas for Southwestern Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate the plating: When presenting the twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use fresh cilantro and diced scallions to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate artistic elements: Create a visually stunning presentation by incorporating artistic elements into the plating. Consider using the sweet potatoes as a base and arranging the browned chorizo and pickled jalapenos in an aesthetically pleasing manner on top of the stuffed sweet potatoes.
Balance the composition: Pay attention to the balance of the dish by arranging the components thoughtfully. Ensure that the sweet corn and black beans are distributed evenly, and the queso fresco is crumbled delicately on top to create a harmonious composition.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the precision of the plating, ensuring that each element is placed with care and attention to detail. Use a steady hand to sprinkle the queso fresco and garnish with a precise amount of sour cream to achieve a polished presentation.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the textures of the dish by layering the ingredients strategically. The creamy sweet potato, tender black beans, and crunchy corn should be highlighted to create a delightful textural experience for the diners.
Emphasize the aroma: Before serving, ensure that the aroma of the dish is enticing. The fragrance of the browned chorizo and the aromatic fresh cilantro should be noticeable as the dish is presented to the judges.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting the sweet potatoes until they are tender and the skin is dry and crackly.
- Microwave: A quick alternative for cooking the sweet potatoes when time is limited. It can be used to cook the sweet potatoes in short intervals until they are tender.
- Skillet: Used for sautéing the onions, bell peppers, black beans, and sweet corn to create the flavorful filling for the sweet potatoes.
- Knife: Necessary for splitting open the sweet potatoes and for various other kitchen tasks.
- Fork: Used for poking holes in the sweet potatoes before cooking and for mashing the sweet potato flesh when preparing the filling.
- Baking dish: Used to hold the sweet potatoes while they are being baked in the oven.
- Mixing spoon: Essential for stirring and combining the ingredients in the skillet while sautéing the filling for the sweet potatoes.
- Cutting board: Used for chopping and preparing the vegetables and other ingredients for the recipe.
- Oven mitts: Necessary for handling the hot baking dish and sweet potatoes when removing them from the oven.
- Serving platter: Used for presenting and serving the twice-baked southwestern sweet potatoes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
- To store leftover twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
- When ready to reheat, unwrap the sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the twice baked sweet potatoes. Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped potatoes in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and label with the date. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen twice baked sweet potatoes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, unwrap the potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Note: The texture of the sweet potatoes may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious. If you find the potatoes a bit dry after reheating, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil to restore some moisture.
How To Reheat Leftover Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
- The best way to reheat leftover twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the stuffed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- If the filling seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top of each potato before reheating. This will help keep the filling moist and creamy.
- Cover the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the tops of the potatoes from burning or drying out too much.
- Bake the sweet potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and the filling is warm and bubbly. The exact reheating time will depend on the size of your potatoes and how cold they were to begin with.
- If you want to add some extra flavor and texture to your reheated sweet potatoes, you can sprinkle some additional queso fresco, chopped cilantro, or diced scallions on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- Alternatively, if you're in a hurry, you can reheat the twice baked sweet potatoes in the microwave. Place one or two potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery or dry.
- Whichever reheating method you choose, be sure to let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot. Enjoy your leftover twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes as a tasty and satisfying lunch or dinner!
Interesting Trivia About Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
The sweet potato is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Additionally, sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Is Making Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes at Home Cost-Effective?
This twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, black beans, and bell peppers, are affordable and readily available. The addition of queso fresco and chorizo may slightly increase the cost, but they add a delicious flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, this recipe offers a balance of affordability and flavor, earning a solid 8 out of 10.
Are Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes Healthy?
This twice baked southwestern sweet potato recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Black beans provide protein and additional fiber, while vegetables like onions and bell peppers offer vitamins and minerals. Queso fresco is a lower-fat cheese compared to many other varieties, making it a healthier choice.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional value:
- Use low-fat or fat-free sour cream to reduce the overall fat content
- Opt for turkey or vegetarian chorizo instead of traditional pork chorizo to decrease saturated fat and calories
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the filling for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Choose reduced-sodium black beans to help control sodium intake
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these suggestions:
- Incorporate additional nutrient-dense vegetables like chopped spinach or kale into the filling
- Swap out half of the cheese for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor along with B vitamins and protein
- Serve the sweet potatoes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a protein boost and a similar tangy flavor
Editor's Opinion on This Southwestern Sweet Potato Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this twice baked southwestern sweet potatoes recipe to be a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, queso fresco, and fresh vegetables creates a harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes. The addition of browned chorizo and pickled jalapenos adds a delightful kick, while the sour cream and scallions provide a refreshing finish. This recipe offers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, making it a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.
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Why trust this Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional baked sweet potatoes, incorporating flavorful Southwestern ingredients such as black beans, sweet corn, and queso fresco. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, while the addition of browned chorizo and pickled jalapenos adds a touch of heat and depth. The use of fresh cilantro and diced scallions provides a vibrant finish, elevating the dish with a burst of freshness. With a balance of savory, spicy, and creamy elements, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable dining experience.
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