These Sweet Potato Loaded Nachos are a fun twist on the classic snack! Crispy sweet potato slices are topped with gooey cheese, black beans, and a sprinkle of jalapeños for a little kick.
Let’s be honest, you might find yourself snacking on these for dinner—they’re just that good! I love to add some avocado on top for an extra creamy touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I love their natural sweetness and vibrant color. If you need an alternative, you could use regular potatoes, but they won’t have the same sweetness. You can also use butternut squash for a different flavor.
Cheese: I usually go with cheddar for that classic nacho taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a low-fat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is another great way to bring in a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber! If you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute pinto or kidney beans for a similar texture. Canned chickpeas can work too if you’re feeling adventurous!
Veggies: The colorful toppings add crunch and freshness. I recommend using whatever you have—corn, spinach, or jalapeños can also add a fun twist!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Crispy?
Getting sweet potatoes crispy can be a challenge, but a few tips will help. First, slice them evenly; thin rounds (about 1/8 inch) work best. Next, toss them well with olive oil and seasonings to ensure they coat evenly.
- Bake them in a single layer, which helps them roast instead of steam.
- Flipping halfway through cooking allows both sides to crisp up nicely.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for the best results.
These small steps will have you enjoying crispy sweet potato chips in no time!
Sweet Potato Loaded Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Nachos:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for drizzling)
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, satisfying snack or a fun dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, get a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some oil to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and slice them into rounds about 1/8 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy!
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure every slice is evenly coated to enhance those delicious flavors!
4. Arrange and Bake:
Lay the sweet potato slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure they crisp up nicely on both sides!
5. Add the Toppings:
After baking, remove the sweet potato rounds from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Evenly distribute the black beans and black olives over the cheese layer.
6. Final Bake:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese has melted beautifully and everything is heated through.
7. Top with Fresh Ingredients:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and add the cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and sliced avocado on top for that fresh crunch.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top. Serve right away with optional lime wedges for that zesty kick!
Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Sweet Potato Loaded Nachos! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and sweetness, you can use regular potatoes, or even butternut squash for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese, or you can sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Low-fat cheese is also a great substitution if you’re watching calories!
Can I Make These Nachos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato rounds and toppings ahead of time. Store the sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge and assemble the nachos before you’re ready to bake them for optimal crispiness.
How to Store Leftover Nachos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crispiness.
