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Sweet potatoes, with their vibrant orange hue and naturally sweet flavor, have gained immense popularity as a nutritious and versatile ingredient. Not only are they delicious, but they also pack a powerful nutritional punch, making them a staple in many kitchens around the world. From simple baked options to more elaborate dishes, sweet potatoes can be prepared in a myriad of ways. One particularly creative method that stands out is stuffing them, allowing for endless flavor combinations and textures that elevate this humble vegetable to new culinary heights.

Green Chili Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Discover the irresistible Spicy Green Chili Stuffed Sweet Potatoes—a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a spicy, savory filling. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, black beans, and zesty green chilies, this meal is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy meal prep option, these stuffed potatoes promise to elevate your dining experience while keeping things wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients
  

4 medium sweet potatoes

1 cup cooked quinoa (can be prepared in advance)

1 cup green chilies (choose fresh, roasted, or canned), diced

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 avocado, diced (for topping)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the sweet potatoes.

    Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Rinse the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold water, then dry them with a towel. Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato several times to allow steam to escape during baking. This step helps prevent them from bursting.

      Bake the Sweet Potatoes: Arrange the pierced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they are soft and tender when poked with a fork. The exact baking time will vary depending on the size of your potatoes.

        Make the Filling: While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced green chilies, black beans, corn, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a uniform distribution of flavors.

          Add Cheese: Once the filling ingredients are well mixed, fold in half of the shredded cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps bind the filling together, making it creamier.

            Stuff the Potatoes: After the sweet potatoes have finished baking and are cool enough to handle, carefully cut them open lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create a pocket for the filling, taking care not to break the skins. Generously fill each potato with the spicy green chili mixture.

              Bake Again: Place the stuffed sweet potatoes back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese atop each potato. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delightful golden layer.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, top each potato with diced avocado and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side to add an extra zesty flavor to each bite.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4

                    Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes on a colorful plate, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch. Consider drizzling some olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top for an added gourmet touch.