Introduction
Sweet potato enchiladas are a delightful twist on the classic Mexican dish, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory spices, beans, and cheese. This vegetarian-friendly recipe is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a meatless Monday dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress.
Why Sweet Potato Enchiladas?
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When paired with protein-packed black beans, flavorful spices, and a tangy enchilada sauce, they create a dish that’s both wholesome and delicious. Plus, this recipe is easy to customize and can be made ahead of time for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
For the enchilada sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling:
- 8-10 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream, lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for baking the enchiladas.
- Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of the sweet potato and bean mixture, sprinkle with a little cheese, and roll tightly. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, making sure they’re fully covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the enchiladas cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Enchiladas
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add a diced jalapeño to the filling for extra spice.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Enchiladas
This dish is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
- High in Fiber: Both sweet potatoes and black beans are high in fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Plant-Based Protein: Black beans provide a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish filling and nutritious.
More Sweet Potato Recipes to Try
If you love sweet potatoes as much as we do, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious recipes:
- Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet: A hearty and savory dish that combines sweet potatoes with ground beef for a satisfying meal. Perfect for dinner or meal prep!
- Easy Cake Recipes: If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your enchiladas, explore this collection of easy cake recipes for a delightful dessert.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side dish that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, baked sweet potato fries that are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Great as a snack or side dish.
Conclusion
Sweet potato enchiladas are a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or prepping them for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet potatoes, beans, and spices in every bite!