Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious base for a wide variety of savory meals, and this stuffed version truly showcases their potential. Filled with a delicious combination of sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and creamy feta cheese, these stuffed sweet potatoes strike the perfect balance between comfort food and wholesome eating. The savory filling contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while fresh herbs and a hint of lemon juice brighten every bite. French fried onions add an irresistible crunch, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes it over the top—though it’s just as good without it.
This recipe is a satisfying vegetarian main course or a hearty side dish, perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold flavor and texture. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also loaded with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals or just looking for something new to add to your dinner rotation, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to please. They’re comforting yet fresh, rich yet balanced—a meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based goodness that leaves you satisfied.
- Flavor-Packed: The mix of sautéed mushrooms, tangy feta, herbs, and lemon delivers bold, balanced flavor.
- Simple to Prepare: No fancy tools or complicated steps—just straightforward, wholesome cooking.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs or ingredient swaps.
- Visually Impressive: Beautiful enough to serve guests, but easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes
- Yellow onion
- Mushrooms
- Fresh spinach
- Lemon juice
- Feta cheese (crumbled)
- French fried onions
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- Butter
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
- Fresh thyme
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Variations
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and replace feta with a plant-based alternative or a scoop of hummus.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or shredded mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes, pierce them a few times with a fork, and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the potatoes bake, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the mushrooms, oregano, garlic powder, and thyme. Sauté until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Lemon
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Squeeze in the lemon juice, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes
Once baked, carefully slice the sweet potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and mix lightly to mash the inside.
Step 5: Stuff the Potatoes
Spoon the sautéed veggie mixture into the sweet potatoes. Top with crumbled feta and a handful of French fried onions.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Choose sweet potatoes of similar size so they cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the lemon—it adds brightness and balances the richness.
- Pre-slice the potatoes slightly before baking to make stuffing easier.
- For extra crispiness, broil the stuffed potatoes for 2–3 minutes before serving.
- Make the filling ahead to save time on busy weeknights.
How to Serve
Serve these stuffed sweet potatoes as a main dish with a simple green salad or roasted veggies on the side. They also pair well with a light soup or a grain-based salad like quinoa or couscous. For a fancier presentation, garnish with microgreens or additional crumbled feta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings (feta, fried onions) separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing
While sweet potatoes freeze well, the filling (especially with feta and spinach) may change in texture. If freezing, do so before adding the toppings. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. To maintain crispiness of the fried onions, add them after reheating. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, but the flavor will be more neutral. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory filling.
2. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the filling up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge until ready to use.
3. What’s the best way to mash the sweet potato inside?
Use a fork or spoon to gently mix and fluff the flesh without tearing the skin.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes—just use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese or a spoonful of tahini or hummus.
5. How can I add more protein?
Include cooked chickpeas, lentils, or even tofu crumbles to the filling.
6. Is it okay to skip the balsamic glaze?
Totally optional—it adds a sweet-tangy flavor, but the dish is delicious without it.
7. Can I microwave the sweet potatoes instead of baking?
Yes. Microwave on high for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until soft. Baking enhances flavor, but microwaving saves time.
8. How do I keep the French fried onions crispy?
Add them just before serving or store them separately if making ahead.
9. What other cheeses can I use?
Goat cheese, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar all work well.
10. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Simply scale up the ingredients and use a large baking sheet for the potatoes.
Conclusion
Stuffed sweet potatoes with spinach, mushroom, and feta are a delicious, nourishing, and easy-to-make dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining. This recipe brings together a satisfying mix of textures and flavors—from the sweetness of the potato to the savory sautéed vegetables and tangy cheese. Whether you’re vegetarian, looking for healthier meal ideas, or just craving something different, this dish is a winner. Customize it to your taste, enjoy it warm, and savor every bite.
PrintStuffed Sweet Potatoes with Spinach, Mushroom, and Feta
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savory, satisfying, and wholesome—these stuffed sweet potatoes are loaded with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, creamy mashed sweet potato, and tangy feta. Finished with crunchy French fried onions and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this vegetarian dish makes the perfect cozy dinner or hearty side.
Ingredients
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2 medium sweet potatoes
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½ sweet yellow onion, chopped
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2 cups mushrooms, sliced
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3 cups fresh spinach
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Juice of ½ lemon
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⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese
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French fried onions (to taste)
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
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1 tbsp butter (plus 1 tbsp for mashing)
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1 tbsp dried oregano
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1 tbsp garlic powder
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Fresh thyme (to taste)
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Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Wash sweet potatoes and pierce each several times with a fork. Bake directly on the oven rack for 45–60 minutes, until fork-tender.
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While potatoes bake, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté until soft and golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.
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Add spinach, garlic powder, oregano, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cook until spinach wilts. Remove from heat.
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Once sweet potatoes are cooked, carefully slice them open lengthwise. Scoop out a portion of the flesh and mash with 1 tbsp butter, salt, and pepper to taste. Return mashed filling to each potato base.
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Top with the mushroom-spinach mixture and crumbled feta cheese.
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Garnish with French fried onions and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if using. Add fresh thyme to taste.
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Serve warm.
Notes
Swap spinach for kale or arugula if desired.
For a vegan version, skip the feta and butter or replace with plant-based alternatives.
You can prep the filling while the potatoes bake to save time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired