Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dinner that brings vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients to the table, this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is an absolute gem. It’s a perfect blend of tender sweet potatoes, rich spiced beef or turkey, hearty beans, and melty cheese that comes together in a cozy casserole form. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness, warmth, and savoriness that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe are straightforward but crucial for building layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays its role from the sweetness of the potatoes to the smoky spices that give the dish its signature kick. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Provides the hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious spices.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced: Offers natural sweetness and a comforting texture contrast.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and a boost of fiber and protein.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides a juicy, tangy element that balances the richness.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained): Brings bursts of sweetness and chewy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, saucy base for the casserole.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Infuses the dish with a warm, smoky spice kick.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy undertones that deepen the chili flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smokiness with a subtle sweet pepper taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully into a golden, bubbly topping.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness right before serving.
How to Make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. This sets the stage for an easy bake and cleanup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or turkey with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onion has softened into sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just for another minute to release its fragrance before draining off any excess fat for a cleaner taste.
Step 3: Add Spices and Vegetables
Stir in your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper so every bit of meat is coated with those warm, inviting spices. Then, fold in the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes — this is when the sweet potatoes start to soften and the flavors meld into that comforting, chili casserole goodness.
Step 4: Transfer and Top
Once your filling is simmered to perfection, pour it evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula, then generously sprinkle the shredded cheese all over. This cheesy layer will melt into a mouthwatering crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake Covered and Then Uncover
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, giving enough time for the sweet potatoes to become tender without drying out the casserole. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes to let the cheese bubble up and get that irresistible golden finish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe comes out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top for a fragrant, vibrant touch. Serve it warm and get ready for those first comforting bites full of flavor and heartiness.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro really brightens each serving, cutting through the richness with its crisp, herbaceous notes. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or some sliced avocado for an extra creamy dimension that balances the spices.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch. Or try warm, crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side to scoop up every last bit of the cheesy chili mixture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins topped with additional cheese and cilantro, turning it into personal comfort food portions. Alternatively, serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors with every forkful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it a convenient option for next-day meals without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly or divide into portions before freezing. You can store it for up to 2 months, which means you can always have a delicious homemade meal ready whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place the entire casserole back in a 350°F oven covered with foil to retain moisture, baking for about 20 minutes. Remove foil at the end to re-melt the cheese and regain that fresh-baked taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and keeps the casserole light while still absorbing all those wonderful spices. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the vegetables.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t on hand, regular paprika or a touch of chipotle powder can work as great substitutes, adding either mild sweetness or a smoky heat respectively to your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and add more beans or even cooked lentils for protein. You can also toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep it hearty and satisfying.
Is this casserole spicy?
The chili powder and spices lend warmth but aren’t overly spicy. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to tailor it exactly to your taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tomato sauce and spices. Always double-check labels if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is a total winner when you want a rich, satisfying meal that combines the best of spicy chili and comforting casserole vibes. It’s not just easy to make but also fun to customize and perfect for any occasion that calls for a little kitchen magic. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to comfort food treasure!
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Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish combining ground beef or turkey with sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheese, it makes for a comforting and wholesome meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cook the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its flavor. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Spices and Vegetables: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Then add the diced sweet potato, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and tomato sauce. Let this mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sweet potatoes begin to soften, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cooked mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or vice versa based on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables as desired.
- Using fresh sweet potatoes gives the best texture, but frozen diced sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch.
- Adjust the chili powder and spices to your preferred level of heat and flavor.
- Leftovers taste great reheated and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
