Looking for a warm and comforting dish that the whole family will love? This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home. Packed with hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients, this one-skillet meal will become a household favorite in no time. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
**Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option)
– 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, chopped green onions
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
4. Stir in diced sweet potato and red bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and corn kernels to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Season the chili mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili mixture in the skillet.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
10. Serve the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like sliced avocado, dollop of sour cream, or chopped green onions.
This Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for an added nutritional boost. You can also make it vegetarian-friendly by swapping the ground meat for plant-based protein alternatives like lentils or tofu.
Prepare this hearty casserole ahead of time and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. The flavors of the chili will only deepen and improve with time, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy days.
With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delicious aromas wafting from your kitchen as you create this comforting dish that is bound to warm both heart and soul. Cheers to cozy nights in with good food and great company!
