This Apple Pecan Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal side dish or a light meal. It’s incredibly easy to make, healthy, and packed with comforting flavors. You’ll love how quickly these come together for a delicious addition to any table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Sweet Potatoes: Look for medium-sized, evenly shaped sweet potatoes. You can substitute with regular baking potatoes, but the flavor profile will change.
- Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work wonderfully for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Pears can be used as a substitute for a different twist.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. Walnuts or chopped almonds can be used instead.
- Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for natural sweetness. Agave nectar is a good alternative.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth and classic apple pie spice. Nutmeg or allspice can be added for more complexity.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
* 4 medium sweet potatoes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil)
* 1 medium apple, cored and diced
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
* A sprinkle of brown sugar (for extra sweetness)
* A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, mixing bowl, small saucepan, fork
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Pierce them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
2. Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Place the sweet potatoes directly on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until they are very tender when squeezed. The cooking time will depend on their size.
3. Sauté the Apple and Pecan Filling
While the sweet potatoes bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced apple and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until everything is combined and fragrant.
4. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are done, carefully slice each one lengthwise down the middle, but don’t cut all the way through. Fluff the flesh with a fork, creating a pocket.
5. Fill and Serve
Spoon the warm apple pecan mixture generously into each sweet potato. You can drizzle with a little extra maple syrup or sprinkle with brown sugar if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting apple pecan stuffed sweet potatoes!
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Apple Pecan Stuffed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the apple pecan filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before stuffing the potatoes.
Q: How do I know when the sweet potatoes are fully cooked?
A: A sweet potato is fully cooked when it feels very soft to the touch and a fork can easily slide through the flesh.
Q: Can I use different nuts?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews would make great substitutes for pecans.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, you can bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the filling separately. Assemble them just before serving or portion them into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Q: Can I make this a savory dish?
A: While this recipe leans sweet, you can adjust by reducing the maple syrup and adding savory elements like herbs (rosemary, thyme) or even crumbled feta cheese.
Q: What if I don’t have maple syrup?
A: You can use brown sugar, honey, or another liquid sweetener as a substitute, adjusting to your preferred level of sweetness.