The Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is a brilliant fusion of comforting chili and a classic baked casserole. Packed with bold spices, tender chunks of sweet potato, juicy ground beef, and savory black beans, this dish hits every satisfying note. Finished with a layer of melty cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s a one-pan meal that will keep you coming back for more.
This recipe is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week. The best part? You only need one skillet and about 50 minutes to get this on the table. It’s hearty, healthy, and incredibly customizable — substitute the beef with turkey, or go vegetarian by skipping the meat altogether. Either way, the flavors shine and the result is pure comfort.
Full Recipe:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
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1 1/2 cups frozen corn
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2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Fresh cilantro, optional for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
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Stir in chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
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Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), corn, and sweet potatoes. Combine thoroughly.
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Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors develop and sweet potatoes begin to soften.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Transfer skillet to oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Delicious Twist on Classic Chili: Sweet Potato Chili Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes offer the same warm, hearty satisfaction as a good chili. Now imagine elevating that timeless favorite by blending it with the soul-soothing nature of a casserole. That’s exactly what the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole does—it brings together the best of both worlds into a one-pan meal that’s as nutritious as it is comforting.
This dish is an ideal weeknight dinner solution, meal prep champion, or family gathering favorite. It’s simple, full of flavor, and loaded with wholesome ingredients that satisfy on every level. From its warming spices to the sweet undertones of roasted sweet potatoes, every bite is a comforting blend of hearty and healthy.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
The concept for this casserole is rooted in blending nutritional balance with robust flavor. Chili is beloved for its ability to pack a punch, both in taste and substance. However, traditional chili is often heavy on the meat and beans. By incorporating sweet potatoes, this version brings in a naturally sweet and earthy flavor that balances the heat of the spices while boosting the dish’s fiber and vitamin content.
Sweet potatoes have long been used in various cuisines for their flexibility and nutritional value. In this dish, their creamy texture perfectly complements the beans and ground meat (if used), soaking up the chili seasoning like a sponge and helping to round out the spiciness with subtle sweetness.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
There’s a reason casseroles have stood the test of time in family kitchens. They’re a one-dish wonder—easy to make, even easier to clean up, and endlessly adaptable. The Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is no exception. The combination of ingredients in this dish was chosen not only for flavor but for texture and cooking time compatibility.
Sweet potatoes cook at a similar rate to other common chili ingredients when diced small, making them the perfect addition. They also hold their shape during baking, giving the casserole a delightful bite without turning mushy. Meanwhile, the use of frozen corn, canned beans, and tomatoes keeps the prep work minimal while ensuring maximum flavor and nutrient retention.
Adding cheese over the top before baking offers that golden, gooey finish that elevates the dish from everyday chili to irresistible comfort food. The cheese not only seals in moisture but adds a richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Chili Casserole
One of the most appealing aspects of this casserole is how nourishing it is. While it feels like indulgent comfort food, it’s packed with ingredients that offer a host of health benefits:
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Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes support healthy vision, gut health, and immune function.
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Black Beans: These legumes are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
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Tomatoes: High in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, tomatoes contribute to heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
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Ground Beef (or substitute): A solid source of complete protein, iron, and vitamin B12. You can easily swap with lean turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option.
When combined, these ingredients create a nutritionally balanced meal that provides protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential micronutrients—all in one dish.
Customizing the Recipe to Fit Your Needs
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to experiment with new flavors, the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole can easily be modified:
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat altogether and add more beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based meat and swap dairy cheese for your favorite vegan cheddar. Make sure your chili seasoning is free of animal-derived ingredients.
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Spice Level: Prefer it milder? Dial back the chili powder or skip the paprika. Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
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Low-Carb Option: Use a smaller amount of sweet potato or replace it partially with cauliflower florets or chopped zucchini.
These variations make the recipe a great canvas for creativity, especially if you’re cooking for a family with mixed dietary needs.
How to Make It a Meal
Although the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a standalone dish, you can easily round out the meal with a few sides:
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Salad: A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
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Cornbread: Classic or jalapeño-infused cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili flavors.
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Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Adds a creamy, cooling element.
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Rice or Quinoa: Serve over grains to stretch the casserole and add another layer of texture.
For drinks, a chilled lager or a zesty homemade lemonade can balance the spice and refresh your palate.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This casserole holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezer, making it a stellar option for busy weeks. After cooking, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing:
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (wrapped well) for up to 3 months.
When reheating, simply pop individual servings into the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
It’s also a great candidate for doubling. Make one for dinner and freeze one for later—your future self will thank you.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Even picky eaters are likely to enjoy this dish. The sweet and savory profile, familiar chili base, and melty cheese topping appeal to all ages. It’s a great way to sneak in vegetables for kids or anyone who’s veggie-averse. Plus, it’s filling enough to satisfy growing appetites and hearty enough to serve at casual gatherings or potlucks.
For entertaining, consider topping the casserole with sliced green onions, dollops of sour cream, or a sprinkling of fresh herbs right before serving to add color and freshness.
Conclusion: A Casserole You’ll Crave Again and Again
The Sweet Potato Chili Casserole is more than just a cozy dinner—it’s a celebration of comfort food done right. It hits every mark: bold flavor, nutritional value, one-pan convenience, and flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
It’s also a great reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. With just a few accessible ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy a meal that feels indulgent, warms the soul, and fuels the body.
Give this casserole a try, and it just might earn a permanent place in your weekly meal rotation. After all, the only thing better than a great meal is knowing there’s some left for lunch tomorrow.
