Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Bake

This hearty chili cheese sweet potato casserole brings together the warmth of roasted sweet potatoes with a spicy black bean chili all under a blanket of gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners when you want something comforting yet satisfying. This dish is fully vegetarian but packs a punch in flavor and texture to make you and your loved ones feel totally content.

I first made this casserole when I was craving something cozy in the middle of a chilly week. My family was reluctant about vegetarian dishes then, but this one won them over fast and it’s become a regular request especially on busy nights.

Ingredients

• Neutral oil: use something mild like canola or vegetable oil for roasting and sautéing because it won’t overpower the spices
• Sweet potatoes: peeled and cubed for sweetness and a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the chili
• Kosher salt: to season layers evenly and bring out natural flavors, adjust if using fine salt
• Yellow onion: chopped finely adds a sweet base flavor when gently cooked
• Red bell pepper: finely chopped for a touch of sweetness and color that brightens the dish
• Garlic: finely chopped intensifies the savory notes and adds depth
• Chili powder: the main spice that gives the chili its warm, smoky flavor, use your favorite blend
• Ground cumin: adds earthiness and a little warmth, freshly ground is best if you can
• Dried oregano: gives a subtle herbal note that complements the chili spices well
• Canned black beans: drained and rinsed for protein and a hearty texture
• Canned diced tomatoes: bring acidity and juiciness that balance richness
• Canned tomato sauce: adds a smooth, saucy base to the chili
• Fresh or frozen corn kernels: add sweetness and pops of texture throughout
• Shredded colby Jack cheese: melts beautifully for a creamy, gooey layer, substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack for variation
• Scallions: thinly sliced for a fresh, mild onion finish
• Sour cream: served alongside to cool the spice and add creaminess

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Add the chopped onion with half a teaspoon of kosher salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 6 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Next, stir in the chopped red bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes until the peppers soften just slightly and the spices become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.

Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit with a rack in the center position. Rub a 13-by-9-inch glass baking dish with neutral oil to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and cover tightly with foil, crimping the edges to seal. Place the sheet in the oven and let the potatoes roast for 20 minutes as the oven heats up. Remove the foil and continue roasting for about 10 more minutes, or until the potatoes are caramelized on the edges and tender in the middle.

Make the Chili:

To the skillet with the sautéed aromatics, add the drained black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn kernels, and the remaining half teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chili is heated through which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour half of the chili mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly scatter half of the roasted sweet potatoes over the chili. Layer the remaining chili on top, spreading it evenly, then top with the last of the sweet potatoes.

Bake and Add Cheese:

Cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes or until it is bubbling around the edges and hot in the center. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded colby Jack cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 4 to 6 minutes until the cheese melts into a beautiful golden, gooey layer.

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the sliced scallions over the casserole for a fresh pop of mild onion flavor. Serve individual portions with a dollop of sour cream on the side for a cool creamy contrast.

Bookmark

My favorite part has to be the sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized and tender because they add a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the smoky chili spices. I remember making this recipe for a family gathering and watching kids and adults alike go back for seconds and thirds without ever missing the meat.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, store leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or place the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350-degree oven until heated through. You can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a different cheese, try mozzarella for a stringier melt or sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. You can swap the black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans for variations in flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños to the chili mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with bright, crunchy sides like a kale salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a tangy red cabbage slaw. For a comforting meal, serve with classic cornbread to soak up any extra sauce from the casserole. A simple green salad also complements the hearty flavors well.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I add meat to this dish?

While you can add meat, the combination of black beans, corn, and sweet potatoes provides hearty texture and flavor, making meat optional.

→ What cheeses work well for topping?

Colby Jack is ideal for meltiness, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack also complement the flavors nicely.

→ How can I prepare this bake ahead of time?

Assemble the layers without the cheese topping, cover, and refrigerate up to 3 days before baking as directed.

→ Is freezing this dish possible?

Yes, freeze before baking without cheese or freeze leftovers cooled in an airtight container. It keeps well for about 3 months.

→ What side dishes pair well with this bake?

Fresh kale salad, tangy red cabbage slaw, or classic cornbread balance the rich and savory elements perfectly.

→ How do I get the sweet potatoes perfectly roasted?

Roast them first under foil at high heat, then remove foil to caramelize until tender and golden for best texture.