Save to Pinterest 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 loaded baked sweet potatoes for a busy Tuesday night and was amazed at how little prep was needed for a meal that felt so satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: 4 medium, scrubbed
- Black beans: 1 cup canned, drained and rinsed
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Avocado: 1, diced
- Green onions: 2, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Cheddar cheese (optional): 1/2 cup shredded (use vegan cheese for dairy-free)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): 1/4 cup (plant-based alternative if desired)
- Olive oil: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prep sweet potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare sweet potatoes:
- Pierce each with fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle salt. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake 45 to 50 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced.
- Warm toppings:
- Combine black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper in saucepan. Warm on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring.
- Assemble potatoes:
- Let cool slightly. Slice each open and fluff the flesh with fork.
- Top potatoes:
- Layer with black beans, cherry tomatoes, cheese, avocado, onions, cilantro, dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, add more toppings if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids love assembling their own potatoes, turning dinner into a personalized, hands-on experience we all look forward to.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, small saucepan, fork, knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy unless using vegan alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for safety.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 375 calories, 11 g total fat, 60 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein
Save to Pinterest This loaded sweet potato recipe is sure to become a regular weeknight favorite in your home.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How long should sweet potatoes be baked?
Bake sweet potatoes for about 45-50 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- → What toppings complement the baked sweet potatoes?
Black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt add vibrant flavor and texture.
- → Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, by using vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream or yogurt alternatives, the dish can easily accommodate dairy-free diets.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
A blend of ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper creates a warm, smoky seasoning for the beans and potatoes.
- → Are there ways to add protein to the meal?
You can boost protein by adding grilled or shredded rotisserie chicken or increasing the portion of black beans.