These Sweet Potato Loaded Nachos are a fun twist on a classic snack! Crispy sweet potato chips get piled high with cheese, black beans, and fresh toppings for a flavor explosion!
I love how colorful and tasty these nachos are. They feel like a party on a plate! Perfect for game day or just a cozy night in. Who can resist such goodness? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and a lovely texture. If you want a different flavor, you can use regular potatoes or butternut squash instead.
Black Beans: They add protein and creaminess. If you’re not a bean fan, try using lentils or crumbled tofu as an alternative.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic here, but feel free to use pepper jack for some spice! Vegan cheese can also be used if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
Guacamole: It’s a must for creaminess! If you don’t have avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even hummus can work.
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potato Chips Are Crispy?
Crispy sweet potato chips are key to these nachos! To achieve the perfect crunch, follow these tips:
- Cut sweet potatoes into thin, even slices—aim for about 1/4 inch thick so they bake evenly.
- Toss them well with olive oil and spices to ensure every slice is coated. This helps with crispiness.
- Bake at a higher temperature and flip halfway to brown both sides. Keep an eye out to avoid burning!
- Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal crunch.
Sweet Potato Loaded Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Oil & Spices: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Beans & Cheese: 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Veggies: 1/2 red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced, 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped, 1 medium tomato, diced, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Toppings: 1/2 cup guacamole, divided into dollops, 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving), Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious, finger-licking dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thin sweet potato slices with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated with the oil and spices.
3. Bake the Sweet Potato Chips:
Spread the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
4. Reduce Temperature and Add Toppings:
Once the sweet potatoes are golden and crisp, take them out of the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Evenly sprinkle the black beans and shredded cheddar cheese over the baked sweet potatoes.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
6. Top and Serve:
Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately top them with the diced red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, tomato, and chopped cilantro. Finish it off with dollops of guacamole on top.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your sweet potato loaded nachos warm, with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt and some lime wedges for squeezing on top. Dive in and enjoy this colorful, delicious, and healthier spin on nachos!
These nachos are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or just as a tasty treat for yourself!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a lovely flavor, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different twist. Just ensure they are cut to a similar thickness for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, try placing the nachos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture. A microwave will make them softer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even scrambled eggs. Tofu or tempeh would also be great plant-based options that would work well with the flavors.
