Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. I adore this recipe because it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve at family gatherings. The creamy burrata and nutty walnuts paired with the aromatic sage pesto create a wholesome dish that everyone will love.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this dish is versatile and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that warms the soul and brings people together around the table, making it one of my all-time favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes in the oven, you can whip this up on even the busiest nights!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into these loaded sweet potatoes!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the sage pesto in advance, saving you time when it’s time to eat.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of creamy burrata, crunchy walnuts, and fresh sage pesto creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and healthy fats from walnuts, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for our delicious stuffed sweet potatoes:

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

Variations

The beauty of these stuffed sweet potatoes lies in their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors:

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale into your sage pesto for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change up the nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds based on what you have on hand.
• Make it vegan: Omit the burrata or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative to fit any dietary needs.
• Add spices: Sprinkle some chili flakes or smoked paprika on top before serving for an added kick!

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

Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by washing your sweet potatoes thoroughly. Prick them several times with a fork so they can steam while baking. Rub them lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Placing them directly on the oven rack allows them to cook evenly. Bake for about 45 minutes until they’re tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Sage Pesto

While your sweet potatoes are baking, let’s whip up that fresh sage pesto! In a food processor, combine fresh sage leaves, pine nuts (or walnuts), grated Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic cloves, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. This vibrant green sauce adds an incredible depth of flavor!

Step 3: Assemble Your Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Once your sweet potatoes are baked and cool enough to handle, slice them open lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently fluff up the insides with a fork. Spoon generous amounts of sage pesto into each potato followed by pieces of creamy burrata cheese.

Step 4: Top with Walnuts & Serve

Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over each stuffed potato for that delightful crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, add a bit of fresh parsley on top for color! Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these comforting Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto! I can’t wait for you to try them—happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto

Creating delicious Stuffed Sweet Potatoes is all about the little details that bring out the best flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you make this dish shine!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that feel firm to the touch. This ensures they cook evenly and have a delightful sweetness once baked.

• Don’t rush the baking: Baking the sweet potatoes at a lower temperature allows them to caramelize naturally. This enhances their sweetness and gives them a beautiful, soft texture.

• Toast those nuts: Toasting the walnuts brings out their natural oils and deepens their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet can make all the difference in taste!

• Make your pesto fresh: Freshly made sage pesto elevates this dish significantly. The vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients will stand out much more than store-bought versions.

• Serve warm: For the best experience, serve your stuffed sweet potatoes warm, allowing the burrata to become wonderfully creamy and blend seamlessly with the other flavors on your plate.

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

Serving these stuffed sweet potatoes is all about presentation and pairing. With their rich colors and textures, they can be a stunning centerpiece for any meal or gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra toasted walnuts: Adding some extra walnuts on top not only looks appealing but also enhances the nutty flavor.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkling some chili flakes can provide an exciting contrast to the creaminess of the burrata.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of stuffed sweet potatoes while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy bites add texture and their slightly bitter flavor balances well with the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf cooked with vegetable broth and herbs serves as a wholesome side that enhances this Mediterranean-themed meal.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides an excellent contrast in flavor and texture, making for a delightful combination with both sweet potatoes and burrata.

Enjoy crafting this cozy dish that’s perfect for dinner gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts, and Sage Pesto are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes.
• Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. If reheating directly from the fridge, bake for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind while preparing this delicious dish!

Can I use different cheese instead of burrata in Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, you can substitute burrata with ricotta or goat cheese. Both options will provide a creamy consistency that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.

What can I substitute for sage pesto in Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts & Sage Pesto?

If sage isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out with basil or parsley pesto. Each variation brings its unique flavor profile while still keeping the dish fresh and vibrant!

How do I know when my sweet potatoes are done baking?

Baked sweet potatoes should be tender to the touch and easily pierced with a fork. If they feel soft all around, they are ready to be stuffed!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Burrata, Toasted Walnuts, and Sage Pesto as much as I do! This recipe is not only delicious but also visually stunning and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings that speak to you. Happy cooking, and may this dish bring warmth and joy to your meals!