Imagine a mouthwatering dish that combines the creamy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the hearty richness of black beans, and the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired spices—all baked into a cheesy, saucy casserole that will have your family begging for seconds! This Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchilada Casserole is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular dinner that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet, sauté diced sweet potatoes over medium heat with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes until potatoes are slightly tender and beginning to caramelize, stirring occasionally.
- Add black beans and corn to the skillet with sweet potatoes. Stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to combine flavors and warm the ingredients.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer half of the sweet potato and bean mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the remaining enchilada sauce over the mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the first layer.
- Add the remaining sweet potato and bean mixture as a second layer, then top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips
- Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best texture and caramelization.
- Make sure to drain and rinse black beans thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for better caramelization of sweet potatoes.
- For extra flavor, consider roasting your corn kernels before adding them to the mixture.
- Don't skip letting the casserole rest after baking—this helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use a hot enchilada sauce.
- Customize your cheese blend with a mix of cheddar and pepper jack for more complexity.
- Fresh cilantro is key—chop it just before garnishing to maintain its vibrant flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 258kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 33mg
