Ah, sweet potatoes—a humble root that’s somehow become the rockstar of comfort food. You know, I never really thought much of them until that one time at a summer BBQ, where a friend casually tossed a plate of loaded sweet potato fries onto the table. It was like a revelation, a culinary awakening, with flavors dancing around like they were at a fiery summer festival.
Now, I can’t resist the crispy, golden edges and the explosion of toppings—cheese, bacon bits, jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, but with a spicy kick that keeps you guessing. So, if you’re ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride, buckle up—and let’s get started with this ultimate recipe.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into fry shapes. Toss them with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the sweet potato fries for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they become tender and slightly browned.
- While the fries are baking, prepare the toppings: drain and rinse the black beans, slice the scallions, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the cilantro. Dice the avocado as well.
- In a small bowl, mix the plain Greek yogurt with minced garlic and lime juice. Add salt to taste, and thin the sauce with water if needed.
- Once the fries are cooked, scatter the black beans, scallions, and tomatoes over them. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese on top.
- Return the fries to the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
- Add the final toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and the lime yogurt sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 scallions, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
- Sweet potatoes (quantity not specified, usually around 2-3 medium)
- Olive oil (enough to coat fries)
- Chili powder, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1734kcal | Carbohydrates: 195g | Protein: 75g | Fat: 78g | Saturated Fat: 27g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 39g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 1533mg | Potassium: 4527mg | Fiber: 60g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 66807IU | Vitamin C: 90mg | Calcium: 1206mg | Iron: 15mg
FAQ
- How can I prepare sweet potatoes for fries?
- To make sweet potato fries, peel and slice the sweet potatoes into fry shapes. You can check out tutorials on slicing techniques if you need guidance.
- What are some alternative toppings for loaded sweet potato fries?
- In addition to black beans, scallions, and tomatoes, you can try adding jalapenos, corn, radishes, salsa, mango, jicama, or shredded lettuce. For non-vegetarian options, consider bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef.
- When should I add the toppings to the fries?
- Add the beans, tomatoes, and green onions before the final cheese layer and bake them briefly. Save toppings like avocado, cilantro, and yogurt sauce for after the fries come out of the oven to keep them fresh.
- What is the best method for reheating leftover sweet potato fries?
- Leftover sweet potato fries are best reheated on a lined baking sheet in the oven at 300 degrees F for about 15 minutes. Avoid adding toppings like avocado or yogurt sauce before reheating to prevent sogginess.
- Can loaded sweet potato fries be served as a main dish?
- Yes, loaded sweet potato fries can be enjoyed as a main dish, serving 2 to 3 people. They also make a great side for tacos, burgers, or wings.
Tips
- Sweet Potato Cutting: If you’re not sure how to slice sweet potatoes into fries, it might be helpful to look up a step-by-step guide for precise and even cuts, which will ensure consistent cooking.
- Topping Suggestions: Feel free to get creative with additional toppings. Consider adding ingredients like salsa, jalapeños, corn, or radishes. For a non-vegetarian option, you can include cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef.
- Topping Order: When layering your toppings, place the beans, tomatoes, and green onions under the cheese before returning the fries to the oven. Save the avocado, cilantro, and yogurt sauce for after baking to maintain their freshness.
- Reheating Tips: If you plan to save leftovers, store them without toppings that could become soggy, such as avocado or yogurt sauce. Reheat the fries on a baking sheet at 300°F for about 15 minutes before adding these fresh toppings.
Equipment
- Silicone Baking Mat – Useful for lining the baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Parchment Paper – An alternative to a silicone baking mat for lining baking sheets.
- Large Baking Sheet – Necessary for spreading out the sweet potato fries to bake evenly.
- Chef’s Knife – If you do not have a good quality knife for slicing sweet potatoes and other toppings.
- Cutting Board – For preparing the sweet potatoes and toppings.
- Mixing Bowls – For tossing the sweet potatoes with oil and spices, and for preparing the lime yogurt sauce.