These easy black bean sweet potato tacos are packed with flavor and goodness! Soft sweet potatoes and hearty black beans make a tasty combination that’s sure to please.
I love how they are simple to make—just roast the sweet potatoes, mix in the black beans, and fill your favorite tortillas. Perfect for a cozy dinner night! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the black beans and spices. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can do the trick too!
Black Beans: Canned black beans make things easy and are packed with protein. If you’re looking for a substitute, pinto or kidney beans can work. For a vegetarian option, make sure to check that your beans are not cooked with meat.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas lend a nice flavor, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Consider trying lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Queso Fresco: This cheese adds a nice creaminess and tang. If you can’t find it, feta cheese is a great substitute. You could also try shredded cheddar or even omit it for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes to get them perfectly tender and a bit crispy is key. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into equal-sized cubes (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
- Toss them with olive oil and spices to enhance the flavor.
- Roast on a baking sheet in a single layer—this helps them cook evenly and get crispy edges.
- Turn them halfway through roasting to avoid sticking and ensure all sides get nice and browned.
- Keep an eye on them! Once they are fork-tender and golden, you know they’re ready.
Easy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
For Assembly:
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
- 1/3 cup salsa verde or green salsa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious tacos in about 35 minutes total—quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure your sweet potatoes roast perfectly while you prepare everything else.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful oil and spices.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until they are tender and have crispy edges. You’re looking for that lovely golden brown color!
4. Heat the Black Beans:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, grab a small pan and warm the black beans over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they’re heated through, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
It’s time to warm the tortillas! You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in a damp cloth and microwave them for about 30 seconds until they’re nice and pliable.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Take a warm tortilla and start adding your filling. Begin with a portion of roasted sweet potatoes, then add some black beans. Top it off with a spoonful of salsa verde, a few slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
7. Add Garnish:
If you’re a cilantro fan, add some fresh chopped cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious tacos immediately while they are warm and enjoy every bite of this tasty meal!
FAQ: Easy Black Bean Sweet Potato Tacos
Can I Use Different Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans complement the sweet potatoes nicely, you can substitute them with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed if using canned beans!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potatoes before roasting. You can also serve them with a spicy salsa for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can! Roast the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, warm them up in the oven or microwave before assembling your tacos.
What Should I Do with Leftover Ingredients?
Leftover black beans and sweet potatoes can be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use them in salads, grain bowls, or wraps for another tasty meal!
