Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating dishes that are both healthy and colorful, and these Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats are a perfect example. The vibrant colors of fresh vegetables paired with the hearty sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes make this dish a feast for the eyes and the palate. Each boat is loaded with flavor, and the best part is that you can personalize the toppings according to your taste. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:16:26.363Z

When I first decided to make these Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats, I was surprised at just how versatile they could be. I experimented with different vegetable combinations and found that bell peppers, spinach, and cherry tomatoes create a wonderful balance of flavors. Roasting the sweet potatoes until they’re tender allows the natural sugars to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness.

What I learned during this process is that the key to a great veggie boat is to not overload them. If you keep the vegetable mix light and flavorful, the sweet potatoes shine through, making every bite a perfect harmony of tastes. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese right before serving takes it to another level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and nutritious, packed with vitamins
Versatile recipe that can adapt to your favorite veggies
A colorful and fun dish that kids will love

      

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When selecting sweet potatoes for your Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. The size of the sweet potatoes can affect cooking time; larger ones may require additional baking time, around 40-45 minutes instead of 30. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, opt for orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Garnet, as they caramelize beautifully during roasting, enhancing the overall dish.

If you have any leftovers after filling the sweet potato boats, consider refrigerating the filling separately in an airtight container for up to three days. Both the sweet potatoes and veggie filling can be heated together in the oven or microwave; just ensure to cover them in the microwave to retain moisture.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

While the basic ingredients are satisfying, you can enhance this dish with additional seasonings. For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

For those looking to infuse a little more freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the dish. Mixing in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of tahini before assembling the boats can introduce a delightful tanginess, making each bite even more addictive.

Ingredients

For the Veggie Boats

2 large sweet potatoes
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and poke a few holes in them with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, until tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for about 3 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes.

Season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Assemble the Boats

Once the sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a bit of the flesh to create a boat. Fill each sweet potato half with the sautéed vegetable mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese.

Finish and Serve

Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat through and allow the cheese to slightly melt. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the veggies based on your season and preference. Adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or herbs can also enhance the flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats are not only delicious fresh but also make great leftovers! To store, simply place the filled sweet potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For best results when reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the textures gummy. Instead, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

If you want to freeze them, it’s best to store the vegetable filling and sweet potato halves separately. This way, you can reheat them freshly assembled, ensuring the texture remains intact. Both components can be frozen for up to two months; just remember to thoroughly thaw them before reheating.

Customizing Your Veggie Filling

One of the biggest advantages of the Baked Sweet Potato Veggie Boats is their adaptability. Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand or prefer. Zucchini, mushrooms, and corn can all be excellent substitutes for the bell pepper and spinach, while black beans add protein and an earthy taste. Just keep in mind that different vegetables will have varying cooking times; ensure they are adequately cooked before filling the sweet potatoes.

If you're looking for a more indulgent version, consider adding cooked quinoa or lentils to the vegetable mix, giving it a hearty texture while boosting the protein content. Cheddar or goat cheese can also substitute feta if you're in the mood for a different flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can pre-cook the sweet potatoes and prepare the veggie filling in advance. Just assemble before serving.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can use ingredients like black beans, corn, or avocado. The options are endless!

→ Are these suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They hold up well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.