Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; Olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Avocado and lime crema for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Inspirations

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for dinner because they are satisfying and packed with flavor. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and seasoned ground beef is a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. I often experiment with different spices and toppings, which adds an extra layer of excitement to this dish. Whether it's for a weeknight family meal or a weekend gathering, these stuffed potatoes are always a hit and never disappoint!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:29:35.820Z

When I first decided to make Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, I didn't anticipate just how delicious they would turn out. After experimenting with spices, I found that a bit of smoked paprika and cumin really elevated the flavors, creating a dish that was hearty and satisfying. I suggest roasting the sweet potatoes until they're perfectly tender for the best texture.

This dish became a family favorite, especially when topped with fresh avocado and a drizzle of lime crema. The combination of creamy toppings with the spiced beef fills each bite with flavor, making it a true comfort meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory beef perfectly.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings.
A wholesome, filling meal perfect for any night of the week.

Mastering the Sweet Potatoes

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture in this dish. Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. The sweetness intensifies when they are roasted, making the baking time crucial. Bake them until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 40 minutes. If you notice that they are too firm after this time, give them an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven to ensure they are soft and easy to scoop out.

The skin of sweet potatoes is both nutritious and flavorful. When preparing them, I recommend leaving the skin on to complement the dish’s texture. Once baked, you can easily fluff the insides while leaving the skins intact, creating a sturdy base to hold the beef filling. This simple technique not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful chewiness that contrasts with the tender filling.

Beef Filling Specialties

The choice of ground beef impacts the overall flavor of the filling. While I often use a standard ground beef with about 80% lean content for optimal juiciness, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you're looking for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as lean meats tend to cook faster. This also allows for versatility in flavor – adding different seasonings can enhance your filling even further.

Don’t skip out on the spices! The smoked paprika and cumin are essential for providing depth and warmth to the ground beef. If you prefer a little heat, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder. Experimenting with herbs like oregano or thyme can also introduce a new flavor profile. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure a well-balanced filling.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is beautifully customizable! Besides cilantro, feel free to top your stuffed sweet potatoes with other fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added freshness. If you're using avocado and lime crema, consider mixing Greek yogurt with lime juice for a tangy twist, or swap with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option. Chopped tomatoes, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream can also elevate the experience – it’s all about what makes your taste buds happiest.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is a great choice! The beef filling can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave before stuffing the sweet potatoes. You can also freeze the beef mixture in portions. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking the potatoes, and you'll have a delicious home-cooked meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

4 medium sweet potatoes
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Beef Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Avocado and lime crema for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and poke a few holes in each with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on a baking sheet and bake for about 40 minutes, or until tender.

Cook the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Spices and Beans

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, black beans, and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Stuff the Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, carefully slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork. Fill each sweet potato with the beef mixture, topping with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings you love.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with avocado and a drizzle of lime crema if desired. Enjoy your deliciously stuffed sweet potatoes!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the beef filling like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the dish's nutritional value. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter dry or tough sweet potatoes, it may be due to overbaking. To prevent this, keep an eye on their tenderness starting around the 35-minute mark. To ensure softness, consider covering them with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process, creating steam to aid in their cooking. Remember, every oven is unique; if you find your sweet potatoes are often inconsistent, you may want to invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

When cooking the ground beef, be attentive to the cooking times mentioned. If you overcook the beef, it might become tough instead of remaining tender. Always drain excess fat to maintain the balance of rich flavors without a greasy finish. If the filling feels too dry, adding a splash of beef broth or a touch of olive oil during the cooking process can help improve the moisture and silkiness of the mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning for a busy week, consider making the stuffed sweet potatoes ahead of time. After assembling them, you can cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, they're ready to go in the oven after a long day of work, and you can enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss. Just adjust the baking time as needed since they will need a few extra minutes to heat through from the fridge.

For leftovers, store the stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or the oven to retain their texture and flavors. If you freeze them, I recommend wrapping each potato individually in foil to preserve their quality. They can be frozen for up to three months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. The flavors often develop even more, making the next serving delightful!

Additional Flavor Combinations

Feel free to experiment with different proteins aside from ground beef. Ground lamb or pork could also work beautifully, providing their unique flavor dimensions. You might want to complement these meats with some herby notes to accentuate their richness. Moreover, consider adding veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini into the filling for an added crunch and nutrition boost.

For a twist on toppings, consider a southwestern flair by adding jalapeños and a sprinkle of queso fresco instead of cilantro. You can also transform them into a Mediterranean delight with feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. Don't hesitate to get creative – this recipe serves as a fantastic base for many different flavor profiles!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the sweet potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can bake the sweet potatoes a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just reheat before stuffing.

→ What if I don't like ground beef?

You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes?

Yes! Once fully assembled, you can wrap and freeze them. Bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.