Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a hearty, wholesome comfort food that ticks all the right boxes, look no further than this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole. It brings together tender sweet potatoes, protein-packed beans and lean ground turkey, all mingling with zesty southwestern spices and a touch of gooey cheddar. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or you’re just craving something nourishing, this casserole doesn’t disappoint — plus, it’s simple enough for busy evenings and colorful enough to impress at potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Wonderful recipes start with wonderful ingredients! Each component here plays an important part in creating the bold flavors, vibrant colors and comforting bite that make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole unforgettable.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps soften the veggies and gives a subtle richness to the base.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down, forming a flavor foundation for the chili.
- Garlic: Bright and aromatic, garlic wakes up all the other ingredients and perfumes the entire casserole.
- Ground turkey or beef: Choose your favorite for hearty protein and richness; turkey keeps things lighter, beef amps up the flavor.
- Chili powder: Brings spicy warmth and color—don’t skimp if you like a bold chili kick.
- Cumin: Classic in chili, cumin gives a savory, earthy note reminiscent of your favorite Tex-Mex meals.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness that takes this dish from good to irresistible.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the casserole from tasting flat.
- Black pepper: A little subtle heat to round out the spice blend.
- Black beans: Adds creaminess and fiber, for a chili that’s as filling as it is tasty.
- Diced tomatoes: Their juices and acidity lighten everything up and balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Frozen corn: Pops of sweetness and color in every bite; no need to thaw before using.
- Sweet potatoes: The star of the show! Dice for softness and natural sweetness after baking.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, melty finish—totally optional, but irresistible.
- Chopped cilantro: Fresh and herbal, perfect for a final bright garnish.
How to Make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your largest skillet and warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for a couple of minutes until they’re soft, fragrant, and just starting to turn golden. This step is quick, but it sets the whole casserole up for major flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Next, add your ground turkey (or beef) to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break up the meat as it cooks to get those little crispy edges, and keep stirring until there’s no more pink showing. This is where the chili starts to take shape!
Step 3: Build the Spice Foundation
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper right over the browned meat. Stir well so all those spices coat every morsel. You’ll notice an immediate burst of that warm, southwestern aroma that signals chili is on the menu.
Step 4: Add Beans, Veggies, and Sweet Potatoes
Pour in your rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes (juice included!), frozen corn, and diced sweet potatoes. Give everything a thorough mix, letting the flavors start to meld together. Let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes. This helps the sweet potatoes start to soften and the mix to get gloriously saucy.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the simmered mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and everything smells irresistible.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
If you’re using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top, and return the casserole to the oven for another 5–10 minutes. Watch for the cheese to melt and bubble, adding a gooey finish that makes each bite extra crave-worthy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
As soon as the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is out of the oven, scatter chopped fresh cilantro over the top. This final touch brings a pop of color and freshness that’s the perfect contrast to the warm, smoky chili underneath.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Chili Casserole
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches! Aside from fresh cilantro, try topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of green onions for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. Each garnish brings something new to the table, making your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole extra special.
Side Dishes
This casserole is satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For something extra-cozy, cornbread makes a classic companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or meal prep, scoop the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole into individual ramekins or ovenproof bowls before baking. You can even use the leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or serve over baked potatoes for a fun, hearty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Sweet Potato Chili Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping or easy lunches.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your casserole, simply let it cool completely, then wrap the dish or portion into freezer-safe containers. Sweet Potato Chili Casserole freezes well for up to three months. When the craving strikes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole (or individual servings) in a microwave or oven-safe dish. In the microwave, cover loosely and heat in one-minute bursts until piping hot. For oven reheating, cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if you want it saucier.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just leave out the ground meat and add another can of beans or some diced bell peppers for extra texture. The bold spices and sweet potatoes are more than enough to make it hearty and satisfying.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is naturally gluten-free, as long as you double-check your canned products for any hidden gluten ingredients. It’s a great fit for families or gatherings where you need an allergen-friendly meal.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey or beef?
Definitely. Ground chicken is a lean, mild option that works just as well as turkey or beef. Brown it thoroughly and follow the recipe as written, enjoying a slightly lighter version of this favorite casserole.
Can I prep Sweet Potato Chili Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What are some fun topping ideas beyond cilantro?
Get creative! Chopped avocado, pickled jalapeños, a squeeze of lime, or even some tortilla chips for crunch will all liven up your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole. Let everyone customize their own serving for maximum dinnertime fun.
Final Thoughts
If you love warm, comforting dinners that don’t skimp on flavor, you’ve got to try this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again—whether you’re feeding a family, sharing with friends, or just seeking a cozy solo meal. Dig in and enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of chili. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Cook the meat: Add the ground turkey (or beef) to the skillet and cook until browned. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add remaining chili ingredients: Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and sweet potatoes. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer to baking dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese (if using), and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add an extra can of beans.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated for easy weeknight meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
