
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are everything I crave when I need quick comfort food that tastes bold but keeps me energized. The mix of savory taco filling and naturally sweet roasted potatoes is a game changer for busy nights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Each bite is spicy creamy and totally satisfying.
I remember the first time I tried this after a long day of hiking. The combination of spicy meat and creamy sweet potatoes made everyone at the table happy and nobody believed it started in the microwave.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: for classic taco savoriness and filling protein be sure to choose beef with minimal fat so the dish is lighter
- White onion: adds sweetness and depth look for ones that feel heavy and firm for best flavor
- Fresh garlic: gives richness and a punchier flavor always select cloves that are plump and without sprouting
- Chili powder: brings smoky spicy taco flavor use a fresh jar for boldness
- Ground cumin: for earthy undertones choose preground or freshly crushed for bigger impact
- Sea salt: enhances all the other flavors I like flaky or fine grain
- Ground black pepper: for just enough heat and warmth grind fresh for best results
- Ground paprika: another smoky note Spanish paprika is especially nice but use what you have
- Garlic powder: boosts flavor if you love garlic go for granulated rather than extra fine
- Onion powder: deepens the taco profile
- Crushed red pepper flakes: for subtle heat add more if your crowd loves spice
- Dried oregano: balances with a little herbal sharpness choose Mediterranean or Mexican style if you can
- Chunky salsa: keeps everything juicy buy one with clean ingredients and your preferred heat level
- Water: helps thin the mixture so every bite of potato has saucy meat
- Sweet potatoes: are creamy and naturally sweet choose small to medium for quick even cooking and smooth skin for easiest prep
- Shredded mozzarella: makes the topping melty and rich go for whole milk if possible
- Diced tomatoes: add brightness and a fresh finish pick juicy ripe ones for contrast
- Mashed avocado: brings cool creaminess use avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure
- Sour cream: tangy and classic full fat works best
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Cook Sweet Potatoes:
- Microwave the sweet potatoes by first poking them all over with a fork which keeps them from bursting as they cook. Place them in a bowl or on a plate with a splash of water. Microwave on high for ten minutes. If they are not tender through the center continue microwaving in five minute bursts. Depending on your microwave size you may need to cook two potatoes at a time for best results.
- Brown the Taco Filling:
- While the potatoes cook heat a skillet to medium high. Add the ground beef chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for five to seven minutes stirring often until the beef is fully browned and onions are soft. When everything looks cooked through drain off any excess fat to keep the filling light and not greasy.
- Season Everything:
- Return the skillet to low heat then stir in the chili powder ground cumin sea salt black pepper paprika garlic powder onion powder red pepper flakes and oregano. Give it a thorough mix to evenly coat the meat. Pour in the salsa and water stirring again. Let this bubble together over low heat for about five minutes so all the flavors marry and the sauce thickens up around the beef.
- Stuff the Potatoes:
- When the sweet potatoes are soft and slightly cooled make a long cut down the center of each potato being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently press the sides to reveal a pocket for the filling.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the taco beef mixture into each potato loading it up generously. Top with mozzarella cheese tomatoes a scoop of mashed avocado and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy the combination of spicy juicy tender creamy all in one bite.

My favorite addition is a sprinkle of smoked paprika in the meat just before stuffing the potatoes. My kids love helping set up a topping bar for this recipe and those build your own nights turn even a random Tuesday into something special.
Storage Tips
These stuffed sweet potatoes store beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. To reheat simply microwave until steaming or warm in a low oven. If you want to freeze them leave off the fresh toppings and add those right before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or plant based meat for the beef with no trouble. For a dairy free version use a vegan cheese and skip the sour cream or use a dairy free alternative. Not a fan of spicy Try using mild salsa and keep out the red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these with a big green salad or a bowl of corn salad. Top with chopped green onion extra cilantro hot sauce or just keep it classic with the suggested toppings. Small plates and napkins are handy since these are deliciously messy in the best way.

Cultural Context
Taco stuffed sweet potatoes combine the flavors of Mexican American tacos with a nourishing twist. Sweet potatoes are a staple food in many cultures for good reason providing nutritious and filling meals that adapt well to different toppings and flavors. This recipe reimagines taco night to be both health focused and fun.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.
- → How do I know when the sweet potatoes are cooked through?
The sweet potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and easy to split open without falling apart.
- → Are there alternative toppings I can use?
Try queso fresco, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for added flavor and texture variety.
- → Can I bake instead of microwave the sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 40-50 minutes until soft, if you prefer over microwaving for convenience.
- → Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Yes, cooked potatoes and filling can be stored separately and assembled fresh as needed during the week.