There is nothing quite like the vibrant flavors and comforting textures of this Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe. Sweet potatoes serve as the perfect base, roasted to tender perfection, then loaded with a zesty medley of ground turkey, spicy peppers, black beans, and roasted corn. Topped with melted pepper jack cheese and a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, this dish brilliantly balances smoky, spicy, and fresh notes all in one bite. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying, colorful feast that’s sure to become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of cooking ingredients on a white marbled surface. Four large sweet potatoes sit in the middle, lined up horizontally with their smooth, orange skin visible. Around them, several small white bowls hold different ingredients: shredded cheese with a pale yellow color in one, cooked corn kernels with a golden hue in another, finely chopped white onions in a third, and black beans in a bowl with ribbed sides. A small bowl contains a greenish-yellow oil, another holds a brownish spice, and a separate small bowl has salt. There is a block of uncooked pale pink ground meat on a white plate near the top left. Some fresh green cilantro sprigs and two cloves of garlic rest near a large shiny green poblano pepper on the top right side. A fresh, dark green jalapeño pepper is placed below the sweet potatoes. The ingredients are neatly spaced in a clean, organized way. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These carefully chosen ingredients come together effortlessly to deliver layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes to the bold spices and fresh cilantro that brighten the filling.

6 medium sweet potatoes (8 ounces each, scrubbed clean): The hearty, naturally sweet foundation for this dish that roasts up tender and comforting.
1 teaspoon avocado oil: A mild, healthy oil perfect for sautéing the veggies without overpowering their essence.
1 poblano pepper (seeded and diced): Adds a subtle smoky heat that complements the other peppers beautifully.
1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and diced): Brings a brighter, sharper kick to awaken your taste buds without overwhelming the palate.
½ yellow onion (diced): Gives sweetness and depth that’s essential in rounding out the filling’s flavor.
1 pound 93% ground turkey: Lean and flavorful, it adds protein while keeping the dish light and healthy.
3 cloves garlic (chopped): Delivers that unmistakable punch of aroma and savory goodness in every bite.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring every ingredient shines through.
1 ½ teaspoons cumin: A warm, earthy spice that anchors the Southwest profile of this pillow-soft filling.
½ cup black beans (rinsed and drained): Adds creamy texture and boosts fiber, making this dish even more satisfying.
½ cup frozen roasted corn: Sweet and slightly charred, it gives delightful bursts of flavor and color contrast.
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish): Brings a fresh, citrusy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
¾ cup shredded pepper jack cheese: Melts down with a wonderful hint of spice, creating irresistible gooeyness on top.
Greek yogurt (for serving): A creamy, tangy topping that balances the spices and adds a cool richness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheating your oven to 400° F is the first step toward sweet potato perfection. Prick each sweet potato a few times to allow steam to escape, then roast them on a lined baking sheet. This slow roasting for 45 to 60 minutes will coax out their natural sugars and render them irresistibly soft and tender—perfect to be filled.

Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion

While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the poblano, jalapeño, and onion for gentle cooking until they soften just right. This step develops their flavors and melds those spicy, smoky, and sweet notes into a foundation worth layering your protein on.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey and Garlic

Add the ground turkey and chopped garlic to your softened veggie mix and season with kosher salt and cumin. Stir and break the meat apart so it cooks evenly, turning from pink to golden brown. This mixture is soon to be the hearty filling you’ll load into those baked sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans, Corn, and Cilantro

Once your turkey is cooked through, stir in the black beans and frozen roasted corn. These add lovely textures and a bite of sweetness that balances the heat. Finish by folding in chopped cilantro, which adds the fresh, herbal zing that brightens this filling beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

After your sweet potatoes’ve cooled enough to handle, carefully slice them lengthwise and gently open them to make room for the filling. Use a measuring cup or spoon to stuff as much filling as the potatoes can hold, pressing slightly to compact it. Top each with shredded pepper jack cheese and broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely until you have luscious bubbly cheese melting on top.

Step 6: Finish with Toppings

Remove from the oven and add a generous dollop of creamy Greek yogurt atop each potato. Sprinkle a bit more fresh cilantro for color and an herbal contrast that makes each bite sing with flavor and freshness. These Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are now ready to impress.

How to Serve Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Four sweet potato halves are placed vertically on a brown parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Each sweet potato half is filled with layers: the bottom layer is orange sweet potato flesh, topped with a mix of green peas and small corn kernels, and finished with a generous layer of shredded white cheese evenly covering each sweet potato. The texture of the sweet potato is soft and slightly rough, while the cheese looks smooth and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe even more, consider garnishes like bright lime wedges for a citrus splash, extra chopped cilantro for fresh herbal notes, or thinly sliced radishes for crunch and color contrast. These finishing touches enhance the dish’s vibrant personality.

Side Dishes

This meal stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider light, crunchy salads, a simple avocado and tomato salad, or even a fresh corn salsa. These sides keep the meal balanced and refreshing without stealing the spotlight from your stuffed sweet potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating your Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe on rustic wooden boards or colorful, patterned plates to match the Southwest vibe. For parties, cut smaller sweet potatoes for bite-size portions and serve as festive appetizers. You can also drizzle a chipotle crema for a smoky, spicy twist that dazzles guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your stuffed sweet potatoes in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the yogurt separate ensures the best texture and freshness when reheating. This makes for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner the next day without losing any of the original magic.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the filling and sweet potatoes separately. Wrap the roasted sweet potatoes tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze the filling in portioned airtight containers. When ready, thaw overnight and reheat for a convenient meal anytime the craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat stuffed sweet potatoes either in the oven at 350° F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quicker option, though the oven helps maintain that lovely texture. Add fresh dollops of Greek yogurt and cilantro after reheating to revive their creamy, fresh finish.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken for ground turkey in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully and provides a similar lean protein option while absorbing the spices beautifully. Just adjust cooking time as needed since chicken can cook slightly faster.

How spicy is this Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe?

The heat is moderate thanks to the poblano and jalapeño peppers, which offer a nice kick without being overwhelming. You can dial the spice up or down by adjusting or omitting the jalapeño based on your preference.

Are these sweet potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it friendly for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure all your ingredients—especially any packaged ones—are labeled gluten-free if you have sensitivity concerns.

What if I don’t have pepper jack cheese?

You can easily substitute mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Pepper jack adds a subtle spicy note, but these alternatives provide excellent meltiness and flavor to complement the filling.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and increase the amount of black beans or use a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to maintain a hearty filling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with bold Southwest flavors, the Southwest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a must-try. From the tender sweet potato base to the vibrant, spicy filling and melty cheese topping, every bite feels like a warm hug. Don’t wait to make this colorful, nutritious, and downright delicious recipe part of your regular rotation — your taste buds will thank you!