Description
Hearty Southwestern Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes deliver a fiesta of flavors that dance across Mexican-inspired comfort cuisine. Roasted sweet potatoes become delicious vessels for zesty seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings that invite warm and satisfying bites.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 4 sweet potatoes
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1/2 cup water
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Toppings:
- Shredded mozzarella
- Diced tomatoes
- Mashed avocado
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Pierce sweet potatoes thoroughly with a fork to allow steam release during cooking. Position in a microwave-safe container with a small water base and cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through. Check tenderness by inserting a knife; continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments if needed.
- Prepare the meat filling by heating a skillet over medium-high temperature. Crumble ground beef into the pan with diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until meat transforms from pink to brown, approximately 6-7 minutes, ensuring complete protein breakdown.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet, then incorporate a robust blend of spices – chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Pour salsa and a splash of water, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop deeper flavor profiles for 4-5 minutes.
- Remove sweet potatoes from microwave and let rest for 2-3 minutes to prevent burning. Carefully slice lengthwise without completely separating, creating a pocket for filling.
- Generously load each potato with the seasoned meat mixture, ensuring even distribution and maximum coverage.
- Crown the stuffed potatoes with melted mozzarella cheese, fresh diced tomatoes, creamy mashed avocado, and a dollop of tangy sour cream. Serve immediately while ingredients remain warm and textures are optimal.
Notes
- Steam sweet potatoes carefully to prevent overcooking by checking doneness with a fork after initial 10-minute microwave cycle.
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to reduce excess fat and prevent soggy potato filling.
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier protein option that maintains similar flavor profile.
- Experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg