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
Scale
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
