The Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes are a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings together the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a creamy filling of black beans and corn. Topped with fresh pico de gallo, avocado, and a hint of lime, these sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This dish is simple to whip up, making it great for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of sweet potato, black beans, and corn creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream or additional veggies to make it your own.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sweet potatoes are a healthy option for any meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make preparing your Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ziploc bag (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the sweet potatoes evenly in the oven.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the filling ingredients smoothly.
- Ziploc bag: Great for piping the filling back into the potato skins neatly.
Ingredients
The sweet potato filling is smooth and creamy, combined with corn and beans, all topped with pico de gallo, avocado, lime, sour cream, and red pepper flakes.
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 1 large sweet potato (or 2 small)
- olive oil
- tsp chili powder
- salt & pepper (to taste)
For the Filling
- 1 cup black beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 boursin cheese puck
For the Toppings
- 2 tomatoes
- 1/2 purple onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 lime juiced
- handful fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado
- sour cream
- red pepper flakes
How to Make Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Begin by washing the sweet potato thoroughly and then carefully cutting it in half. Place both halves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over each half and season generously with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub in the seasonings well before placing them face down on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Toppings
While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your toppings. Chop the tomatoes and purple onion into small pieces. Finely mince the garlic cloves and cilantro. Combine all these ingredients in a mixing bowl along with the juice from one lime. Season your pico de gallo with salt and pepper according to taste. Mix everything well and set aside in the fridge to chill.
Step 3: Create the Filling
After 40-45 minutes, check if your sweet potatoes are soft by gently squeezing them. Once they are ready, carefully scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl while keeping the skins intact. Add in black beans, corn, and boursin cheese to this mixture. Season everything to taste with salt and pepper before mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Broil for Perfection
Spoon your creamy filling back into each sweet potato skin. If you’d like a more polished look, transfer your filling into a Ziploc bag to pipe it back in neatly (optional). Place them under the broiler for about 5-8 minutes or until they become slightly browned on top.
Step 5: Plate Your Dish
To serve your Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes, place them on plates alongside generous portions of fresh pico de gallo, sliced avocado, dollops of sour cream, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Feel free to drizzle extra lime juice or add more salt & pepper as desired before enjoying!
How to Serve Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Double baked loaded sweet potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Fresh Greens
- Mixed Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the sweet potatoes.
- Spinach and Arugula: Toss together fresh spinach and arugula, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a peppery contrast.
For Extra Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken on the side for a protein boost that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Shredded Beef: Serve with shredded beef or pork for a hearty option that makes the meal even more filling.
Toppings Galore
- Extra Pico de Gallo: Serve with additional pico de gallo on top for a vibrant and zesty flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for varied taste profiles.
As a Snack
- Mini Versions: Cut smaller sweet potatoes and fill them for mini appetizers, perfect for gatherings or parties.
- Game Day Treats: These loaded sweet potatoes make great snacks during game day, served alongside your favorite beverages.
How to Perfect Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Creating the ideal double baked loaded sweet potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success.
- Choose Quality Sweet Potatoes: Select firm sweet potatoes without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Bake Thoroughly: Ensure you bake the sweet potatoes until they are very soft; this enhances their natural sweetness.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning both the potatoes and the filling; it elevates the overall taste.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different ingredients like jalapeños or other spices to customize your filling.
- Broil for Crispiness: Broil your filled skins at the end to achieve a nice golden crust on top, adding texture.
- Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs and colorful toppings like avocado and cilantro to make your dish visually appealing.
Best Side Dishes for Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Pairing your double baked loaded sweet potatoes with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances the flavors of the sweet potato filling.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad provides crunch and sweetness that pairs well with this dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and acidity, enhancing your meal’s taste.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve a mix of grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the savory flavors of double baked loaded sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad filled with fresh veggies adds protein and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the taste and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the sweet potatoes and filling can lead to bland flavor. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and spices.
Overbaking the sweet potatoes – Baking for too long can cause them to dry out. Keep an eye on them, aiming for a soft but not mushy texture.
Ignoring toppings prep – Preparing toppings in advance ensures they stay fresh and vibrant. Don’t wait until the last minute; make pico de gallo and other toppings ahead of time.
Not using ripe avocado – Using an unripe avocado can result in a hard texture. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best creamy topping.
Forgetting about customization – Sticking rigidly to the recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow sweet potatoes to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
- Wrap each double baked potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes?
Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes are sweet potatoes that are first baked until soft, then scooped out, mixed with delicious fillings like beans and cheese, and baked again for a crispy finish.
Can I customize my Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can add various toppings such as grilled chicken, different cheeses, or even switch out the beans and corn for your favorites. The recipe is highly versatile!
How do I ensure my pico de gallo is fresh?
To keep your pico de gallo fresh, prepare it just before serving or store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Use it within 2 days for the best flavor.
Are Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes healthy?
Yes! They are packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes, beans, and vegetables. They offer a great balance of carbs, fiber, and protein while being deliciously satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes are a delightful dish that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences—whether you prefer more spice or extra toppings. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try!
Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Double Baked Loaded Sweet Potatoes are the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition that your taste buds will adore. These delightful twice-baked treats begin with the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, which are then filled with a creamy mix of black beans, corn, and boursin cheese. Topped with vibrant pico de gallo, fresh avocado, and a drizzle of lime juice, this dish not only satisfies cravings but also serves as a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues, these loaded sweet potatoes are customizable to suit your preferences and are sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato (or 2 small)
- 1 cup black beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 boursin cheese puck
- Fresh pico de gallo (tomatoes, onion, garlic, lime juice)
- Avocado
- Olive oil
- Chili powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Halve the sweet potato and place it cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bake for 40-45 minutes until soft.
- While baking, prepare pico de gallo by chopping tomatoes, onion, garlic, and cilantro; mix in lime juice and season to taste.
- Once sweet potatoes are baked, scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Mix with black beans, corn, and boursin cheese until smooth.
- Spoon the filling back into the skins and broil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve topped with pico de gallo, avocado slices, sour cream, and red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
