Save to Pinterest Hearty sweet potatoes are baked until tender, then filled with a robust, bean-packed chili for a flavorful, wholesome weeknight meal that requires minimal hands-on prep.
This recipe has quickly become a family favorite because it combines comforting sweet potatoes with a spicy, savory chili that's both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients
- Sweet Potatoes: 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Chili Filling: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 (15 oz 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz 425 g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (14 oz 400 g) can diced tomatoes; ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable broth; Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Toppings (optional): ¼ cup shredded cheddar or vegan cheese; ¼ cup sour cream or plant-based alternative; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 1 avocado, diced; Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until very tender.
- Step 3:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in garlic and bell pepper cook another 3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 6:
- Add beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7:
- Once sweet potatoes are cooked, let cool slightly. Slice open lengthwise and gently fluff flesh with a fork.
- Step 8:
- Spoon the chili filling generously into each sweet potato. Top with cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado, or green onions as desired.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, with extra toppings on the side.
Save to Pinterest Preparing these chili boats has become a cherished family moment, especially on chilly weeknights when everyone gathers around for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
Swap beans for ground meat or a plant-based crumble if preferred. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, large skillet, knife and cutting board, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using cheese or sour cream substitute with vegan options if needed. Dish is naturally gluten-free always check labels on canned goods and toppings for possible cross-contamination.
Save to Pinterest These chili boats are perfect for a nutritious dinner that doesn't sacrifice flavor or time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I bake sweet potatoes evenly?
Prick each sweet potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape, then rub with olive oil and salt before baking on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F until tender, about 40–50 minutes.
- → Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the chili filling can be prepared up to four days in advance and refrigerated, making meal prep convenient and quick.
- → What spices give the filling its flavor?
A blend of chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper creates a smoky, mildly spicy flavor profile for the beans and vegetables.
- → Are there any common allergens in this dish?
The dish may contain dairy if cheese or sour cream toppings are used; vegan alternatives can be substituted to avoid allergens.
- → Can this dish be adapted for non-vegetarian eaters?
Yes, beans can be swapped for ground meat or plant-based crumbles according to preference, keeping the filling hearty and satisfying.
- → What toppings complement this dish best?
Toppings like shredded cheddar or vegan cheese, sour cream or plant-based alternatives, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced green onions add texture and freshness.