Get ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey with our Loaded Baked Sweet Potato with Pulled Pork! This mouthwatering dish combines the natural sweetness of perfectly baked sweet potatoes with the savory goodness of tender pulled pork, all drizzled in zesty BBQ sauce. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With a crispy skin and a soft, fluffy interior, these loaded sweet potatoes are not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious—your family will be begging for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 cups pulled pork
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
- Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato multiple times around its surface to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub each sweet potato with a light coating of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place sweet potatoes directly on the middle oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. The skin should be slightly crispy and the interior soft.
- While potatoes are baking, warm the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat. Mix in BBQ sauce and stir until heated through and well-coated.
- Once potatoes are done, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Carefully slice each potato lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- Gently push the ends of each potato to open and create a pocket for filling.
- Generously fill each potato with the warm BBQ pulled pork.
- Top with shredded cheese (if using) and return to oven for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your loaded baked sweet potato with pulled pork.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Allowing the sweet potatoes to bake at a high temperature ensures they become tender with a crispy exterior. Make sure to pierce them well to let steam escape.
- Enhance the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. A smoky or spicy sauce can elevate the dish even more!
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, don’t skip the shredded cheese! It adds a creamy texture that complements the pulled pork beautifully.
- Garnish for Greatness: Fresh green onions and a dollop of sour cream not only add flavor but also a pop of color to your dish. Don’t be shy with the toppings!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pulled pork ahead of time. Just warm it up before assembling your loaded sweet potatoes for a quicker meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side salad or some roasted veggies for a complete and balanced meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
