Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving (optional); Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely love this recipe for Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the combination of savory beef and sweet potatoes makes for a comforting and nutritious meal. Each bite is packed with flavor, and it’s the perfect way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize the toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this dish has become a favorite in my home.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:45:35.538Z

When I first made Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, the goal was to create a hearty yet healthy dinner option that blends comfort food with balanced nutrition. I’ve experimented with different fillings, but the tender, spiced ground beef paired with the natural sweetness of the potatoes has become my go-to. The method of baking the potatoes beforehand ensures they’re perfectly soft and flavorful, serving as the ideal vessel for the seasoned beef.

One essential tip I learned is to let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes it easier to scoop them out without compromising their structure. Adding your choice of toppings like cheese or sour cream elevates the dish further. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress, whether it’s family dinner or a casual gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors
High in protein and packed with nutrients
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
A comforting dish perfect for any occasion

      

The Versatility of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can opt for a variety of sweet potatoes, such as orange-fleshed or purple-fleshed, each with its own slight flavor profile. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. It's essential to wash them thoroughly before baking as they can carry dirt from the farm.

Baking sweet potatoes until tender brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the savory ground beef perfectly. If you prefer a quicker cooking method, consider microwaving the sweet potatoes. Just pierce them with a fork and cook on high for about 5-8 minutes, turning halfway through. This method will save time but may result in slightly less caramelization.

Perfecting the Beef Filling

When cooking the beef mixture, make sure to break up the meat well while browning to ensure even cooking and to avoid clumps. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini to the mixture for extra veggies and flavor. These ingredients also add moisture, making the filling even more delectable.

Using a non-stick skillet will help prevent the beef from sticking and allow you to achieve that perfectly browned texture. Pay attention to the spices; toasting the cumin and paprika in the pan for a minute can elevate their flavors, making the filling more aromatic and savory. Always taste the mixture towards the end of cooking and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

For serving, consider offering a variety of toppings to customize each dish according to personal taste. Besides shredded cheese and sour cream, try adding avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. Each topping can enhance the overall eating experience and make the meal more satisfying.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! The stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quick meal, although the skin won’t retain the crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious stuffed sweet potatoes:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

These ingredients will yield deliciously stuffed sweet potatoes that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:

Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife.

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Stuff the Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a little bit of the flesh to create space for the beef mixture. Fill each potato half with the cooked ground beef mixture.

Add Toppings and Serve

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve warm, garnished with sour cream and chopped green onions, and enjoy!

Your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, top the stuffed potatoes with avocado, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to cut down on fat content, consider substituting lean ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. This will provide a similar texture while reducing calories. Additionally, if you're vegetarian or want to add more fiber, use black beans or lentils seasoned with the same spices.

To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also replace sour cream with an avocado puree or cashew cream, which will add creaminess without the dairy.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests. If you want to serve more people, increase the number of sweet potatoes and adjust the amount of ground beef accordingly. Each sweet potato typically serves one person, so plan for about 1/4 pound of beef per potato.

For smaller portions, you can halve the recipe without sacrificing taste. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, particularly for the sweet potatoes if they are smaller or fewer in number, keeping an eye on them towards the end of baking to ensure they don't overcook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before stuffing the cooked sweet potatoes.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option work great as substitutes.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro.