Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado, diced, for topping; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating colorful and nutritious meals, and these Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats are a favorite in my kitchen. Each boat is not only bursting with flavor but also packed with vitamins and minerals. What I find particularly delightful is how versatile they are; you can switch up the fillings based on what’s in season or your personal taste. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a simple lunch, these sweet potato boats offer a wholesome option that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:19:12.351Z

When I first made these Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats, I wasn’t entirely sure how they would turn out. To my surprise, the sweet potatoes roasted to perfection, creating a lovely sweetness that perfectly complemented the savory filling. I learned that baking them at a high temperature makes all the difference in texture!

The best part is how customizable these boats are. I’ve experimented with different veggies and spices, and each time, they come out wonderfully. My go-to filling is a mix of black beans, corn, and spices; it’s both hearty and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love These Boats
        Naturally sweet and savory flavor combination
Packed with nutrients and fiber
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings
Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

      

The Sweet Potato Base

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is essential for the best flavor and texture in your veggie boats. Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes with vibrant orange flesh, as they'll be sweeter and more nutritious. I recommend medium-sized potatoes for even cooking. Roast them until they're fork-tender, which usually takes about 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

After roasting, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before cutting them. This step is crucial for safety and ease when scooping out the flesh. You want to create a sturdy boat that holds the filling without falling apart. You can save the scooped-out flesh for mixing with the filling or use it in other recipes, like smoothies or mashed sweet potatoes.

Customizing Your Filling

The beauty of these veggie boats is their adaptability. While black beans and corn are a classic combination, feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling. Peanut or almond butter can also complement the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, adding creaminess and depth to your filling.

Additionally, if you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, there are plenty of substitutes you can make. Swap black beans for quinoa or chickpeas for a protein boost and a different texture. For a vegan option without avocado, try a drizzle of tahini or a vegan yogurt sauce to add creaminess without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, diced, for topping
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

These ingredients provide a delicious and nutritious base for your sweet potato boats.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Veggie Boats:

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.

Make the Filling

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the black beans, corn, bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Boats

Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a boat. Mix the scooped-out sweet potato with the filling and then spoon it back into the potato skins.

Finish and Serve

Top the filled sweet potatoes with diced avocado and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your nutritious veggie boats!

These steps will guide you through making a delicious and healthy meal that can be enjoyed at any time.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping your veggie boats with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Storage and Reheating

These Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats are an excellent option for meal prep; you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain moisture. For weekday lunches, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Keep a close watch while reheating in the oven to prevent them from drying out.

If you want to make them ahead of time and store them longer, consider freezing the stuffed sweet potatoes. Wrap each boat tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap and store them in a zip-top bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat according to the methods described above.

Serving Suggestions

These veggie boats can serve as a delightful centerpiece for your dinner table. To elevate the presentation, consider serving them on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a colorful salad. Adding a squeeze of lime juice over the top can enhance the flavors and provide a fresh zesty finish that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.

If you're looking to turn these into a heartier meal, pair the boats with a side of quinoa or brown rice. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese can transform them into a satisfying dish. Experiment with various toppings like crushed tortilla chips for crunch or a drizzle of your favorite salsa for an added burst of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes and filling in advance, then assemble and bake them when you're ready to eat.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use a variety of vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, or even add quinoa or rice for extra substance.

→ Are these boats gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.