When the chill of winter settles in, my craving for warmth and comfort reaches new heights. One evening, I found myself staring at a couple of sweet potatoes and some pantry staples, pondering what to make. That’s when the inspiration struck! I created the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole—a fusion that transforms the hearty, robust flavors of traditional chili into a cozy casserole topped with bubbling, melted cheese.

As it bakes in the oven, the comforting aroma of spices and sweet potatoes fills my home, wrapping me in its embrace like a warm blanket. It's not just a dish; it’s a celebration of togetherness and comfort, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it's remarkably simple to whip up! With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful balance of rich chili and sweet potato, making it a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into making this heartwarming recipe!

Why is Sweet Potato Chili Casserole a must-try?

Comforting: This dish brings warmth and joy to chilly nights, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Hearty & Nutritious: Packed with fiber-rich beans and sweet potatoes, it’s a wholesome balance of nutrients.
Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients or add extras for a personalized touch—try adding corn or jalapeños!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Embrace the cozy vibes and check out how to make it easier with our expert tips!

Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

For the Casserole

Ground Beef – Adds protein and richness to the casserole; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Black Beans – Provide fiber and help bulk up the dish; can be swapped with kidney beans or omitted for a meatier version.
Yellow Onion – Adds depth of flavor through sweet and savory notes; shallots can be used as an alternative.
Garlic – Enhances the dish's aroma and taste; use minced garlic or garlic powder as options.
Red Bell Pepper – Offers color and sweetness; green bell pepper is a suitable substitute but has a slightly different flavor.
Chili Powder – Contributes spice and warmth; adjust quantity based on your preferred heat level, or use smoked paprika for extra depth.
Ground Cumin – Provides a warm, earthy tone; omit if unavailable, but keep in mind it adds critical flavor.
Oregano – Adds a hint of herbal freshness; use Italian seasoning as a substitute if needed.
Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the base of the chili with acidity and moisture; diced tomatoes can be a substitute.
Low Sodium Beef Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Sweet Potatoes – Offer a natural sweetness and texture; can substitute with butternut squash or regular potatoes, noting sweetness will vary.
Shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and enhances flavor; any cheese blend can work, including mozzarella.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to taste.

With these ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a delightful Sweet Potato Chili Casserole that warms not just your home, but your heart too!

How to Make Sweet Potato Chili Casserole

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial, as a hot oven will ensure the casserole cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.
Brown the ground beef in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain the excess grease but leave about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced sweet potatoes, and spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano) to the skillet. Cook while stirring for about 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, black beans, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Transfer the cast iron skillet into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and everything is bubbling delightfully.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top, and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and just begins to brown.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately for a deliciously warm family meal.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Chili Casserole?

Bring your dinner table to life with delightful accompaniments that enhance this cozy casserole experience.

Cornbread: The sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread perfectly complements the spicy notes of the chili, adding a soft, comforting texture.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the casserole.
Guacamole: The creamy, cool texture of guacamole offers a delightful contrast to the warm chili, plus those flavors pair beautifully together.
Mexican Rice: Serve it over a bed of seasoned Mexican rice to soak up the flavors, providing a hearty base without overshadowing the dish.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a refreshing touch.
Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add a smooth, buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the spicy sweet potato chili.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side adds an extra layer of warmth and flavor, making it a perfect partner to the casserole.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine enriches the dining experience, adding depth and sophistication that complements the spices beautifully.
Dessert Option: Consider serving a slice of warm apple pie for dessert, contrasting the savory casserole with a sweet finish to the meal.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Chili Casserole

Uniform Chopping: Ensure sweet potatoes are cut into evenly-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and tender bites throughout the casserole.
Beef Substitute: For a healthier twist, consider swapping ground beef with ground turkey or even lentils to keep your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole hearty yet lighter.
Layering Flavors: Don’t rush the step of browning the ground beef; allowing it to develop a nice color adds depth to the overall flavor of your dish.
Adjusting Spice: Start with less chili powder to gauge your desired heat level; you can always add more later for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps it set and makes for easier slicing and serving.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance; assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight before baking for convenience on busy nights.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Chili Casserole preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can chop and sauté the vegetables (onion, garlic, bell pepper, and sweet potatoes) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and combine it with the spices, allowing for quick assembly later. When you're ready to cook, simply mix your prepped ingredients with the canned tomatoes and beans, then bake according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and still enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that feels just as delicious as if made from scratch!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Chili Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while avoiding any unnecessary moisture.

Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This is perfect for make-ahead meals!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth will help retain moisture.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole ahead of time and freeze before baking for a convenient weeknight dinner.

Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this cozy dish for a delightful twist on flavor and texture!

Corn Addition: Stir in a cup of corn to introduce a sweet crunch that beautifully complements the chili base.
Heat Up: Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an additional kick, perfect for heat lovers!
Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and a vibrant pop of green; they’ll wilt beautifully into the casserole without compromising the flavor.
Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese blends such as pepper jack or feta for a unique flavor profile that adds creaminess and zest.
Sweeten It Up: For a hint of sweetness, consider adding diced apples or pears, which infuse the casserole with a unique, subtle flavor harmony.
Swap the Beans: Use white beans or chickpeas instead of black beans for a different texture and taste. They’ll still provide a comforting heartiness!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be sprinkled on top just before serving, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich chili flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Top with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or walnuts, for an unexpected delightful crunch.

These simple variations will take your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole to new heights, making it a dish you’ll want to prepare again and again!

Sweet Potato Chili Casserole Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Choose sweet potatoes that are firm to the touch, with no dark spots or blemishes. A good sweet potato should feel heavy for its size, and the skin should be smooth and well-defined. If you find sweet potatoes with dark spots all over, they may be past their prime.

How long can I store leftovers of Sweet Potato Chili Casserole?
After preparing, the Sweet Potato Chili Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Chili Casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze the casserole, first cool it completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.

What if my casserole is too watery after baking?
If you encounter a watery texture, it's likely due to excess moisture in the cooked sweet potatoes or tomatoes. To remedy this, you can try adding a thickening agent, like cornstarch mixed with a bit of water, and simmer the mixture on the stove until thickened before baking again. Ensure sweet potatoes are cut uniformly next time to help them cook evenly.

Does this recipe cater to specific dietary needs?
Very much so! The Sweet Potato Chili Casserole can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that all your ingredient labels are checked for gluten-free status, particularly when selecting broth and any pre-packaged goods. Additionally, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based protein for a lighter, vegetarian option. Always double-check for allergies related to beans or dairy when adjusting ingredients.

How can I reheat the casserole without drying it out?
To reheat your Sweet Potato Chili Casserole without drying it out, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with aluminum foil. This helps trap moisture. Alternatively, if you're using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can also help maintain moisture.