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; 500g ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Traditions

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for family dinners. This dish not only looks vibrant and inviting but also combines flavors perfectly. The tender sweetness of the baked potatoes pairs magically with savory, seasoned ground beef, creating a meal that's not just filling but also wholesome. I often add my favorite toppings, like cheese and green onions, to elevate the experience. In under an hour, you can have a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:29:35.603Z

When I first tried Ground Beef Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances the savory beef perfectly, creating a taste sensation. I found that seasoning the beef with garlic and cumin really enhances the dish.

What I love most is how versatile this recipe is. You can easily swap in different proteins or add your favorite spices. Each time I make it, I experiment with toppings—sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cilantro, which brings the whole dish together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Naturally sweet and creamy sweet potatoes with a savory beef filling
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and seasonings
Perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings

Preparation Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Selecting sweet potatoes of medium size is crucial for this recipe as they provide enough flesh to hold the flavorful beef filling without being overwhelming. Look for potatoes with smooth, unblemished skins and avoid any that feel too firm, which could indicate they're undercooked or too starchy. I recommend letting the sweet potatoes rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps them become easier to handle and allows the flavors to settle.

When you mash the insides of the baked sweet potatoes, be gentle to avoid tearing the skin. This creates a base for the beef mixture while preserving the structural integrity of the potato. Also, if you want an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of olive oil, sea salt, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika into the cavities before adding the beef.

Flavor Variations and Topping Ideas

One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is its versatility. To add a different flavor profile, consider mixing in ingredients like diced bell peppers or corn when sautéing the ground beef. For a spicy kick, you can also add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper based on your family's heat preference. Experimenting with various herbs like oregano or cilantro can further enhance the dish, making it uniquely yours.

As for toppings, while shredded cheese is a classic choice, think beyond that! Sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even guacamole can add a refreshing contrast to the savory beef. If you're looking for a healthy twist, top your stuffed sweet potatoes with a dollop of tzatziki sauce, which pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes and beef mixture.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

4 medium sweet potatoes
500g ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preference.

Instructions

Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes until soft.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Stuff the Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are done, cut them open lengthwise. Using a fork, mash the insides slightly and spoon the beef mixture into each potato. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

Serve

Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can bake the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them individually wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to three days. The beef filling can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated in an airtight container. Just remember to reheat the filling on the stovetop or microwave before stuffing the potatoes, ensuring everything is hot and flavorful when you assemble the dish.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed sweet potatoes. After you stuff them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with stuffed sweet potatoes is the filling being too dry. If you find your ground beef filling lacks moisture, consider adding a splash of broth or letting it simmer with diced tomatoes. This not only adds moisture but also provides a richer flavor to the beef. Additionally, make sure your sweet potatoes are completely soft by testing them with a fork at the 40-minute mark before stuffing.

If you're having trouble with the sweet potatoes not cooking evenly, it may help to rotate them halfway through baking. Every oven is different, and some may have hot spots that prevent even cooking. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent burning while the insides finish baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Can I prep this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and bake the sweet potatoes ahead of time, then assemble when ready to serve.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Sour cream, avocado, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs all add great flavor.