Pin it
Stuffed sweet potatoes with spinach and feta have become my go-to for both cozy weeknights and casual dinner parties. Each bite is loaded with earthy roasted sweet potato, savory sautéed vegetables, creamy feta, and a burst of fresh rosemary. Whether you eat plant-based or just want a hearty crowd-pleaser, these are always a win.
I first made these for a vegetarian friend and was surprised how the whole table devoured them now I fall back on this recipe when I need something that feels special but comes together with pantry basics.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: the star and base for a naturally sweet and nutritious filling pick medium-sized ones with firm smooth skins
- Olive oil: brings richness and enhances the flavors choose extra virgin for best results
- Onion and garlic: create the aromatic flavor foundation look for sweet yellow onions and fresh garlic
- Mushrooms: add umami depth and heartiness button or cremini both work well choose mushrooms that are firm and dry
- Fresh spinach: brings green color and a tender bite baby spinach will wilt faster and stay more delicate
- Rosemary: gives a peppery earthiness use fresh for best flavor and chop finely
- Salt and black pepper: for seasoning
- Feta cheese: delivers creaminess and tang opt for good quality feta in brine for better flavor
- Lemon zest: brightens everything with fresh citrus aroma use unwaxed lemons if possible
- Chopped walnuts (optional): for crunch and nutty flavor choose fresh walnuts for no bitterness
- Red pepper flakes (optional): for a gentle kick look for bright red flakes for freshest spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
- Scrub each sweet potato and pierce several times with a fork. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a hot oven until tender inside. The skin will wrinkle and a little caramel will bubble out that means they are perfect.
- Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
- Warm olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat and add diced onion. Cook patiently until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and keep the heat gentle so it does not burn. Add the sliced mushrooms and allow them time to brown stirring occasionally until they release their moisture and become golden.
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Scatter in fresh spinach by handfuls letting each batch wilt down before adding more. Stir until all the leaves are tender but still bright green. This usually only takes a couple of minutes. Sprinkle in chopped rosemary salt pepper and if you like a bit of heat a pinch of red pepper flakes. Give the mixture just another minute to draw out the rosemary’s aroma.
- Finish the Filling:
- Take your pan off the heat. Immediately add crumbled feta and lemon zest folding gently into the warm vegetables so the feta stays chunky and creamy rather than melting entirely.
- Stuff the Sweet Potatoes:
- When the potatoes are cool enough to handle cut lengthwise down the center but keep the bottom skin connected. Press the ends together so the potato opens and forms a pocket. Generously spoon the warm veggie feta mixture into each sweet potato pressing down slightly to fit in as much as possible.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If you like finish with chopped walnuts and a drizzle of your best olive oil for a glossy look and little crunch. Serve immediately while hot.
Pin it
Sweet potatoes bring out the natural sweetness in this dish making every mouthful comforting and nostalgic. I always look forward to the moment the kitchen fills with the earthy aroma of rosemary during the sauté step it reminds me of late autumn dinners with the windows fogged from baking.
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers to room temperature and wrap each stuffed potato in foil or store in a reusable container in the fridge. They keep well for up to four days. Warm through in the oven or microwave before eating and add a splash of fresh olive oil just before serving to reawaken flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a vegan version swap out feta for a coconut-based alternative or sprinkle in nutritional yeast for a similar savory note. Sunflower seeds can replace walnuts if you have a nut allergy. Baby kale or chard works well in place of spinach.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed sweet potatoes are hearty enough on their own but pairing with a crisp green salad or tangy yogurt sauce takes things up a notch. For a dinner spread add olives a handful of fresh herbs and a bright lemon wedge for squeezing.
Pin it
Mediterranean Roots
Sweet potatoes are not traditional to the Mediterranean but the combination of greens cheese herbs and olive oil is a classic flavor base in Grecian and Turkish cooking. This meal brings together that regional spirit with a modern twist adding nutritional heft and a stunning presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best type of sweet potato to use?
Opt for medium orange-flesh sweet potatoes, as they bake evenly and have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with savory ingredients.
- → Can other greens replace spinach?
Yes, kale or chard work as alternatives. Sauté until just wilted to maintain color and nutrition.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Swap feta for a plant-based cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Omit walnuts if needed for allergies.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check packaged goods for gluten-containing additives.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or simple cucumber tomato salad for a complete, balanced meal.