Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto are a delightful dish that combines creamy, nutty, and savory flavors in one satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe showcases tender sweet potatoes filled with rich burrata cheese and topped with aromatic sage pesto. With its vibrant colors and comforting taste, this dish is sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The creamy burrata paired with the earthy toasted walnuts creates a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Serving Options: These stuffed sweet potatoes can be served as a main dish or a hearty side, fitting perfectly into any meal plan.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from sweet potatoes and walnuts, this recipe offers great nutrition without compromising on taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prepping your lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious stuffed sweet potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Food processor (optional)
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking of the sweet potatoes while providing enough space for them to bake properly.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife allows for easy cutting and preparing of ingredients like garlic and sage leaves.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients to make the sage pesto smoothly.
• Food processor (optional): Using a food processor can save time when blending the pesto ingredients into a creamy mixture.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Filling

• 2 balls of burrata cheese (about 6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Sage Pesto

• 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a non-vegan version)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean

How to Make Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Sage Pesto

While the sweet potatoes are baking:
1. In a food processor (or mixing bowl), combine fresh sage leaves, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Once baked:
1. Carefully cut each sweet potato down the middle lengthwise.
2. Gently fluff the insides with a fork.
3. Add a ball of burrata cheese into each potato half.
4. Top generously with sage pesto and sprinkle with toasted walnuts.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto warm!

How to Serve Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts, and Sage Pesto are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy a communal dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the sweet potatoes into smaller pieces and serve as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering. Top each piece with burrata and sage pesto for easy eating.

Topped with Extra Nuts

• Enhance the crunch by sprinkling additional toasted walnuts or pine nuts over the top just before serving.

How to Perfect Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

To achieve the best flavor and texture from your stuffed sweet potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose firm sweet potatoes – Select sweet potatoes that feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin for optimal baking.
• Bake until tender – Ensure you bake the sweet potatoes long enough until they are soft by testing them with a fork; this enhances their natural sweetness.
• Use fresh sage leaves – Fresh sage offers a more vibrant flavor compared to dried, elevating your sage pesto significantly.
• Toast nuts lightly – Lightly toasting walnuts or pine nuts before adding them gives an enhanced nutty flavor that complements the dish well.
• Experiment with herbs – Feel free to mix in other herbs like basil or parsley in your pesto for added depth of flavor.
• Serve warm – Enjoying this dish warm helps maintain the creaminess of the burrata cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

For a complete meal experience, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with stuffed sweet potatoes.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy for a flavorful side.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta adds texture and brightness.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice complements the richness of the sweet potatoes beautifully.
4. Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread as a comforting addition that everyone loves.
5. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous combined with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs provides additional Mediterranean flair.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping the meal balanced.
7. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic makes for a fresh and low-carb side option.
8. Cauliflower Mash – Creamy cauliflower mash seasoned well can serve as a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for when making Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts, and Sage Pesto.

• Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: This leads to mushy potatoes that won’t hold their shape. Bake them until tender but firm for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Make sure to season each component, including the sweet potatoes and pesto, for maximum flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold burrata or nuts can affect the overall warmth of the dish. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature before assembling.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts: Raw walnuts don’t provide the same depth of flavor. Always toast your walnuts to enhance their nuttiness and crunch.
• Neglecting Pesto Consistency: A too-thick or too-thin pesto can alter the balance of flavors. Adjust with olive oil or more sage as needed for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

• Wrap each stuffed sweet potato individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check halfway and stir if necessary.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover. Steam gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto?

Stuffed sweet potatoes are baked sweet potatoes filled with creamy burrata cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and topped with a flavorful sage pesto.

Can I customize my Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can swap burrata for other cheeses or change up the nuts and herbs in the pesto based on your taste preferences.

How do I make sage pesto?

Blend fresh sage leaves, garlic, nuts (pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan cheese (optional), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Are Stuffed Sweet Potatoes healthy?

Yes! They are packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and healthy fats from walnuts. Plus, they offer a balanced meal option that is both filling and nutritious.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the burrata cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The dish remains delicious without compromising flavor!

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts, and Sage Pesto are not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily customize them to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Give this delightful recipe a try today!