If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting dish that brings a delightful twist to classic chili, then this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines hearty ground meat, tender sweet potatoes, vibrant beans, and warm spices into a bubbling casserole perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and creamy texture that balances the smoky chili spices, making every bite an absolute joy. Whether you’re new to casseroles or looking to add a fresh spin to your meal rotation, this recipe is a star on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create complex flavors and satisfying textures. Each element plays a key role, from the sweetness of the potatoes to the savory depth brought by the spices and ground meat.
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Provides a rich, protein-packed base to the casserole with a hearty bite.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of savory warmth to the flavor profile.
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced: The star ingredient that lends sweetness and creaminess.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds fiber, protein, and a beautiful texture contrast.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and juiciness to balance the richness.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained): Adds bursts of sweetness and bright color.
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce: Thickens the sauce and enriches the chili’s depth.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The essential spice to bring authentic chili flavor and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Contributes an earthy, slightly smoky undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky layers and enhances color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and seasoning all flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts into a gooey, savory topping that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Meanwhile, dice your onion, peel and chop the sweet potato into bite-sized pieces, and mince the garlic. Having your ingredients ready upfront makes the cooking flow smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef or turkey along with the diced onion until the meat has browned and the onion turns tender. This process builds the savory base of your casserole. Just before the meat finishes cooking, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its wonderful aroma. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Add Spices and Veggies
Next, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices infuse the dish with those classic chili flavors we all love. Add the diced sweet potato, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and tomato sauce. Let everything simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the sweet potatoes to start softening and lets the flavors meld into a delicious, hearty mixture ready for baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the savory chili mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly so every bite will be perfectly balanced. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese all over the top. This blanket of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly topping that adds richness and a fun texture to each serving.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to become tender and the flavors to deepen. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. Your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is now ready to bring warmth and comfort straight to your table.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top to add a fresh, slightly citrusy note that brightens the entire casserole. Now you’re all set to dive into this comforting, colorful dish!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro offers a lovely contrast to the rich and spicy casserole. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of fresh avocado to introduce creaminess and balance to the hearty flavors. A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty touch that perfectly complements the spices.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, warm cornbread, or steamed vegetables. The freshness and crunch of a salad provide balance, while cornbread echoes the chili’s southwestern vibe and adds a comforting carb element. Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or green beans add color and extra nutrients to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also spoon it atop baked tortillas or tostadas to turn it into a layered Mexican-inspired dish. If you want to impress guests, garnish each serving with colorful diced peppers, jalapeño slices, or a sprinkle of queso fresco for an extra pop of flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meals even more satisfying. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole to enjoy later by transferring fully cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months for the best flavor and texture. Label with the date and simply thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to reheat a comforting homemade meal without the fuss.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through, or place the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes to restore all the cheesy goodness and warmth. Remove the foil at the end for a bubbly, fresh-out-of-the-oven melt that will have you smiling all over again.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works perfectly in this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe without sacrificing flavor. Just brown it the same way and enjoy the lighter twist.
What if I don’t have black beans? Can I substitute?
Yes, you can swap black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas depending on your preferences. Each will add a slightly different texture and flavor, but all will work wonderfully.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the ground meat and add extra beans or diced vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to keep it hearty. Adding a plant-based ground meat alternative also works well.
Is it possible to prepare this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure the sweet potatoes cook through.
What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar and Mexican blend cheeses melt beautifully and offer rich flavor. You can also try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar for different tastes. Feel free to mix and match to suit your palate!
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together warmth, comfort, and vibrant flavors all in one dish. It’s easy to prepare but feels special enough for any occasion, making it a delightful addition to your go-to recipes. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how sweet potatoes transform a classic chili into something wonderfully cozy and satisfying. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef or turkey with sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices. Baked to perfection with a cheesy topping, it makes a comforting and nutritious 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)
Canned Goods and Sauces
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 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 and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion softens. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Spices and Ingredients: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Then add diced sweet potato, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and tomato sauce. Simmer everything together for 5-7 minutes until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting Sweet Potato Chili Casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or keep it vegetarian by removing meat and adding extra beans.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Make sure to dice the sweet potato small enough so it cooks through during baking.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and reheated for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
