Sunday Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Herbs
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I love how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting and hearty dish like these stuffed sweet potatoes. On Sundays, I often prefer meals that are both nourishing and satisfying, and this recipe delivers just that. The sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, and I fill them with a mixture of fresh herbs, cheese, and spices to bring out their natural sweetness. It’s a dish that warms the soul and fills the kitchen with amazing aromas, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
When I first made these stuffed sweet potatoes, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. Roasting the sweet potatoes allows their natural sweetness to shine through, while the herb stuffing adds a delightful burst of earthy taste. I recommend using fresh herbs whenever possible; they elevate the dish to another level of freshness that dried herbs simply can’t provide.
One of my favorite combinations is a mix of parsley, thyme, and a hint of garlic. This not only infuses the filling with flavor but also complements the sweet potatoes perfectly. I also encourage you to experiment with different cheeses for the stuffing—each type brings its unique touch!
3 Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and naturally sweet, making it a guilt-free dish.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Perfectly balancing savory and sweet flavors in every bite.
Perfectly Cooking Sweet Potatoes
When preparing the sweet potatoes, the goal is to achieve a tender, fluffy interior. To ensure even cooking, select similarly sized potatoes to prevent some from becoming overcooked while others remain firm. After preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), bake the potatoes for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when a fork easily pierces the skin and the flesh feels soft. If you have larger potatoes, they may require an additional 10-15 minutes—just keep an eye on them.
Don’t rush the cooling process after baking. Allowing the sweet potatoes to rest for a few minutes helps them firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle when you slice them open. Use a clean kitchen towel to protect your hands, and take care not to slice all the way through, as this keeps the potato intact for filling.
Creating the Flavorful Filling
The filling mixture is what elevates stuffed sweet potatoes into a truly delicious meal. Combining cooked quinoa with feta cheese not only adds protein and creaminess but also brings a savory contrast to the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme contribute vibrant flavors and aroma, enhancing the dish. Be sure to taste your filling before stuffing it; the right balance of salt and pepper will complement the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
If you want to customize your filling, consider adding other ingredients. Sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach can introduce additional textures and flavors. For a vegan option, replace the feta with a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit it, using avocado or a dollop of hummus for creaminess instead.
Serving and Storing Leftovers
Once your stuffed sweet potatoes are out of the oven and garlicky aromas fill your kitchen, they make for a beautiful presentation on a platter. Garnish them with extra herbs for a pop of color, and consider serving them alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal. The contrast of savory and sweet flavors in each bite ensures every serving is satisfying and delicious.
Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in foil or in an airtight container, which will keep them fresh for about three months. This makes for an easy meal option for busy weeks ahead!
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potatoes under running water, then towel dry them. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, sprinkling salt over them. Bake for 45 minutes or until soft.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, thyme, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully slice each potato down the center without cutting all the way through. Use a fork to fluff the insides and create room for the filling. Spoon the quinoa mixture generously into each potato.
Final Bake
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes until heated through. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients such as black beans, corn, or your favorite cheese. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness!
Key Technique Tips
When it comes to baking the sweet potatoes, pricking them with a fork is essential. This small step prevents them from bursting in the oven by allowing steam to escape. It’s easy to forget this part, but doing so can save you from a messy kitchen. Perform this step thoroughly across the top of each potato before placing them in the oven.
While you can use any type of cheese in the filling, feta provides a unique tanginess that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. If you can’t find feta, crumbled goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella can work as substitutes, although be mindful they will change the flavor profile. Just keep in mind the moisture content—opt for drier cheeses to avoid sogginess.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe allows for endless variations. You can swap quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or even a mix of cooked lentils for a different flavor and texture. This flexibility accommodates dietary preferences while keeping the dish hearty. Additionally, incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika into the filling can add depth and complexity, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
For a bit of a kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling. Alternatively, for a sweeter profile, mix in some dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey. Such additions can transform the dish into a unique culinary experience tailored to your taste buds.
Final Touches Before Serving
Drizzling olive oil over the stuffed potatoes just before serving not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a beautiful, glossy finish, making them visually appealing. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a pinch of salt can elevate the finished appearance further. Presentation matters, especially for gatherings, so consider placing your stuffed sweet potatoes on a colorful platter to create an inviting dining experience.
If you want to add a crunch to your dish, top the stuffed sweet potatoes with toasted nuts or seeds, like pine nuts or sunflower seeds, just before serving. This added texture contrasts nicely with the soft sweet potatoes and creamy filling, creating a well-rounded meal that's delightful to eat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these stuffed sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and filling in advance. Just keep them separate in the refrigerator and assemble before baking.
→ What can I substitute for quinoa?
You can use brown rice or couscous as a substitute for quinoa in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze stuffed sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Ensure they are wrapped tightly or placed in freezer-safe containers.
Sunday Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Herbs
I love how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting and hearty dish like these stuffed sweet potatoes. On Sundays, I often prefer meals that are both nourishing and satisfying, and this recipe delivers just that. The sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, and I fill them with a mixture of fresh herbs, cheese, and spices to bring out their natural sweetness. It’s a dish that warms the soul and fills the kitchen with amazing aromas, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potatoes under running water, then towel dry them. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, sprinkling salt over them. Bake for 45 minutes or until soft.
In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, thyme, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully slice each potato down the center without cutting all the way through. Use a fork to fluff the insides and create room for the filling. Spoon the quinoa mixture generously into each potato.
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes until heated through. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients such as black beans, corn, or your favorite cheese. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 9g