The sweet potato is highly nutritious, with loads of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. It is lower in starch and carbohydrates than its classic white potato counterpart and very high in Vitamin A. Many people also do not know that sweet potatoes are only distantly related to the white potato, as sweet potatoes are part of the morning glory family, while white potatoes are part of the nightshade family. Sweet potatoes are “root tubers,” meaning they store water and energy underground. Sweet, soft, and delicious, sweet potatoes also have anti-inflammatory benefits. It is therefore no surprise that the “loaded” sweet potato has become such a popular snack or addition to your favorite meal.
For any loaded sweet potato to taste right, they will need to be baked correctly. Make sure to choose similar sized sweet potatoes for the most consistent cook-through in the oven. After pricking the sweet potatoes with a fork, bake them in the oven for about 45-55 minutes at 400 degrees. Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise and they will be ready to be loaded with flavor!
From savory to sweet, you’d be surprised at how many unconventional combinations come together to create an incredible loaded dish that is not only delicious, but also highly nutritious. You will see that the baked sweet potato is nearly endlessly versatile. Below are 14 delectable ideas to add a little flair to your already delicious sweet potato.
1. Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato
Everyone looks buffalo chicken! You would be amazed at how delicious and spicy the result is when you stuff a sweet potato with buffalo chicken. For this you will need Frank’s Red Hot sauce, which is my personal favorite for making buffalo chicken. You also need to prepare the sweet potato the proper way in order for the result to come out right. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Prick the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and then rub them with olive oil. Cook for 45-55 minutes depending on sizes of sweet potatoes. Then, we move on to the chicken. You combine 1 cup of chicken with about 4 tablespoons of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and stuff into the opening of the sweet potato. Drizzle with ranch dressing and chives.