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Casseroles have long been a staple in many households, beloved for their comforting nature and versatility. These one-dish meals can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Among the myriad of casserole recipes, the Sweet Potato & Sausage Casserole Boats stand out, combining the rich flavors of savory sausage and the subtle sweetness of sweet potatoes into a delightful meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Sweet Potato & Sausage Casserole Boats

Transform your dinner routine with these Sweet Potato & Sausage Casserole Boats! This flavorful dish pairs the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with savory Italian sausage, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a nutritious one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, these individual servings promise satisfaction with every bite. Discover how to craft this delicious casserole that’s as healthy as it is hearty!

Ingredients
  

2 large sweet potatoes

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)

1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

1 cup diced onion

1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)

1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Prick them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until tender. Remove and let cool slightly.

      Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

        Add Vegetables: Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced bell peppers, onion, corn, black beans, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to combine all the flavors.

          Make the Sweet Potato Boats: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create a boat, leaving enough on the skin for stability. You can mix the scooped-out sweet potato flesh into the sausage mixture for extra flavor.

            Assemble the Casserole Boats: Spoon the sausage and vegetable mixture into each sweet potato half, evenly distributing it. Top each stuffed sweet potato with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

              Bake: Return the stuffed sweet potato boats to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: After removing from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hour 5 mins | 4 servings