Name: Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ground turkey or beef; 1/2 white onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3/4 cup salsa; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Juice from one lime; Guacamole; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Corn; Salsa; Jalapeños

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you are looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s both comforting and vibrant, this Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe will become your new weeknight favorite. Perfectly roasted sweet potatoes create a naturally sweet and soft base that pairs wonderfully with a spiced ground meat filling bursting with classic Mexican flavors. Every bite offers a delightful contrast between creamy, savory, and tangy elements, making it a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish brings warmth and zest to the table in the most delicious way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients placed on a light pink tiled surface with a white marbled texture. In the center left, there is a white plate with ground turkey or beef, pinkish with a slightly grainy texture. Below it are two raw sweet potatoes, brownish-orange and rough. To the right of the sweet potatoes is a small white bowl filled with salsa, red with chunks of vegetables. Above it is a small white bowl with four spices segmented: chili powder (reddish-brown), salt (white), garlic powder (light yellow), and cumin (light brown). At the bottom left, a white bowl holds chopped red bell pepper and white onion pieces. Next to it, another small white bowl contains fresh green cilantro leaves. On the bottom right, there’s another white bowl with a small amount of golden yellow olive oil. The scene is bright and clear, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that combine to deliver layers of texture, spice, and freshness. Each component plays a crucial role, from the naturally sweet and tender potatoes to the aromatic blend of spices that bring the filling to life.

4 medium sweet potatoes: The star of the dish, providing a naturally sweet and creamy base that balances the spicy filling.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps cook the meat evenly and adds a subtle richness.
1 lb ground turkey or beef: Your protein choice; ground turkey offers a lean option while beef delivers robust flavor.
1/2 white onion, diced: Adds sharpness and crunch to the savory filling.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
3/4 cup salsa: Infuses the meat mixture with moisture, spice, and depth.
2 teaspoons cumin: Provides warm, earthy undertones essential to Mexican cuisine.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overwhelming.
2 teaspoons chili powder: Adds heat and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Brightens all the flavors and balances the spices.
1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Tosses in fresh, herbal brightness.
Juice from one lime: Adds acidity to cut through the richness.
Toppings of choice: Such as guacamole, shredded cheese, sour cream, corn, salsa, and jalapeños to customize each bite.

How to Make Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees. This high heat ensures a beautifully tender sweet potato with a caramelized exterior. Wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly, then pierce them all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape during roasting. Place them on a lined baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes to an hour, or until you can easily slide a fork through the flesh. The perfectly roasted sweet potato is the foundation of this dish, tender and naturally sweet.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

While the potatoes roast, warm olive oil over medium heat in a pan. Add your choice of ground turkey or beef and brown it, breaking it up into small pieces so it cooks evenly. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling from becoming soggy, then stir in the diced onion and red bell pepper. These add essential texture and a balance of sweetness and pungency.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Add salsa, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt to your meat and veggie mixture. Stir it all together and let it simmer on medium heat for another 4 to 5 minutes. This step lets the flavors harmonize while softening the onions and peppers just enough to retain a bit of bite. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is nothing short of irresistible.

Step 4: Freshen With Cilantro and Lime

Remove the pan from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice. The cilantro injects herbal brightness while the lime’s acidity lifts the dish, preventing it from feeling too heavy. Depending on your lime love, use half or the whole lime here for that perfect tang.

Step 5: Assemble Your Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Once your sweet potatoes are roasted and tender, slice them in half lengthwise. Gently press the edges from both sides to create a well where the filling will nestle comfortably. Spoon the spicy, savory mixture into each sweet potato half, piling it generously. Add your favorite toppings like creamy guacamole, shredded cheese, or sour cream to balance the heat and add a final burst of flavor.

How to Serve Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

In a grey pan with two handles, there is a base layer of cooked ground meat with a crumbly texture in light brown color. On top of this, there is a layer of diced red bell peppers and white onions scattered evenly, showing bright red and white colors with a crisp texture. A thick, chunky red sauce with green bell pepper pieces sits in the center on top. Finally, there are several different spices sprinkled in small piles over the vegetables and meat, showing light brown and reddish hues. A beige spatula with a black head is resting in the pan against the ingredients. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Toppings are where you get creative and add a personal touch. Cool guacamole or tangy sour cream pairs beautifully with the warm spices, while shredded cheese melts into the hot filling for extra richness. Fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of corn kernels add crunch and an extra pop of flavor. These garnishes take your Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe to the next level and make each serving feel special.

Side Dishes

Serve your stuffed sweet potatoes alongside a simple green salad or black beans for a complete meal. A side of Mexican street corn or a crisp coleslaw can complement the flavors nicely and add a refreshing contrast. These sides keep the meal balanced and colorful, perfect for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or add fun to family dinners, try topping your stuffed potatoes with a drizzle of chipotle crema or a sprinkle of toasted pepitas. Serving them in small ramekins or on a platter with multiple toppings lets everyone build their own perfect bite. Presentation can transform this comfort dish into something festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings separate if possible to maintain freshness and texture. When ready to eat, reheat gently to avoid drying out the potatoes or filling.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, especially the prepared filling. Spoon the filling and cooked sweet potato halves into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the components separately when possible, then assemble after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat stuffed sweet potatoes in a 350-degree oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and cover with foil to prevent the potatoes from drying out. A quick zap in the microwave works too but may sacrifice some of the original texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat alternatives work beautifully in this Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe, providing flexibility to suit your dietary preferences.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat level?

This recipe has a moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and salsa. Feel free to reduce or increase the chili powder or omit jalapeños to make it milder or hotter according to your taste.

Can I prep parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the meat filling ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve for quick weeknight dinners.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro or lime?

You can substitute dried cilantro or leave it out entirely, though fresh adds the best flavor. Lime juice can be replaced with a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and texture. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers, and it’s so satisfying to make something that feels indulgent yet wholesome. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own spin on those tasty toppings. Once you do, this will surely become one of your favorite recipes to turn to time and time again.