Name: Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided); ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for seasoning potatoes); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus extra for seasoning potatoes); ½ small onion, diced; 1 clove garlic, minced; ½ lb ground lamb; 1 tablespoon gyro seasoning; ½ teaspoon sea salt (for filling); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for filling); 2 tablespoons pine nuts; 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped; 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled; Pomegranate syrup or pomegranate molasses (optional, for drizzling)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 90 reviews

If you have a craving for a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and a comforting texture, you absolutely need to try this Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe. It combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a savory ground lamb filling, perfectly spiced with gyro seasoning, and topped with fresh mint, tangy goat cheese, and crunch from toasted pine nuts. The optional drizzle of pomegranate syrup adds an exquisite fruity finish that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you want a cozy dinner for yourself or a dish to impress friends, this recipe brings Mediterranean magic right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface for a dish. There is a white bowl on the top left filled with raw ground lamb that is pink mixed with bits of white fat, next to a small clear glass bowl filled with dark brown pine nuts. Near the pine nuts, there is a small purple glass bowl holding brown gyro seasoning powder. Below the pine nuts and seasoning, fresh green mint leaves with a leafy texture rest on the surface. Two whole sweet potatoes with an orange-brown rough skin are placed in the center. On the left side, a whole onion with light brown skin and a garlic bulb sit side by side. At the bottom left, a white packet of plain goat cheese is visible with a soft crumbly texture. A tall glass bottle of olive oil with a silver dispenser cap shows rich golden yellow oil inside. To the bottom right, there are two clear glass salt and pepper shakers filled with white salt and black pepper, respectively. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe plays a vital role, contributing distinct flavors and textures. From the sweet, tender potatoes to the aromatic herbs and savory lamb, these simple ingredients come together flawlessly for a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

2 large sweet potatoes: The naturally sweet, creamy base that holds all the delicious fillings.
1 tablespoon olive oil (divided): Adds richness and helps the potatoes roast to a perfect tenderness and slight crispness.
½ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for seasoning potatoes): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus extra for seasoning potatoes): Adds a gentle bite that complements the spiced lamb.
½ small onion (diced): Provides a sweet and savory base for the filling.
1 clove garlic (minced): Gives a punch of aromatic warmth that melds perfectly with the lamb.
½ lb ground lamb: Rich, tender, and full of Mediterranean character.
1 tablespoon gyro seasoning: The key spice blend that adds authentic Mediterranean flair.
2 tablespoons pine nuts: Toasted to add a buttery crunch.
2 tablespoons mint (chopped): Brings fresh, cooling notes that brighten the dish.
2 ounces goat cheese: Adds creamy tanginess that beautifully contrasts with the lamb and sweet potatoes.
Pomegranate syrup (optional): A sweet and tangy glaze that elevates every bite with a burst of flavor.

How to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by scrubbing your sweet potatoes until they’re clean. Slice them in half lengthwise for the perfect ‘boat’ shape. Lightly drizzle or spray them with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper. Place each cut side down on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast them in a preheated 425°F oven for about 40 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. This roasting step not only softens the potatoes but also intensifies their natural sweetness, creating a beautiful foundation for the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the sweet potatoes roast, heat half of your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its fragrant aroma. Now, add your ground lamb, seasoning it with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and the gyro seasoning. Cook the lamb until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to break up any large chunks. This savory mixture is the heart of the Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe, bringing umami and spice together deliciously.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a small dry skillet, gently toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn a lovely golden brown and release their nutty aroma—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Toasted pine nuts add that irresistible crunch and a buttery depth, elevating the texture of the stuffed potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potato Boats

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and cool enough to handle, carefully scoop out a bit of the flesh from each half to create some space for the filling—save the scooped sweet potato for another use or mix it back in if you prefer. Generously fill each sweet potato boat with the savory lamb mixture. Top with crumbled goat cheese, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and chopped mint over everything. For an extra finishing touch, drizzle with pomegranate syrup or a balsamic glaze if preferred. This final assembly blends creamy, crunchy, fresh, and tangy elements that bring this Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe to life.

How to Serve Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Four halves of roasted sweet potato are placed in a row on a foil-lined tray with a silver textured spoon adding a layer of cooked ground meat on the third sweet potato from the left; the sweet potatoes have bright orange flesh with some dark browned edges, and the foil reflects light slightly; a woman's hand with pink nail polish holds the spoon, and the surface beneath the tray is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs are your best friends here—extra chopped mint or even a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley can brighten the dish visually and add a refreshing note. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also amplify those Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lamb and goat cheese. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or grilled flatbreads to soak up any leftover juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these stuffed sweet potatoes on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of the various toppings on the side, letting guests customize their own. Another lovely idea is to turn the filling into individual portions inside mini sweet potatoes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s packed with flavor in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.

Freezing

To freeze, place the assembled but unheated sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat stuffed sweet potatoes in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, usually 15 to 20 minutes. This helps keep the sweet potatoes tender with a slight crisp on top, while the filling stays juicy and aromatic.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of lamb in the Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground beef is a fine substitute if you prefer a milder flavor or cannot find lamb, though lamb gives the dish its signature Mediterranean richness. Just adjust seasoning to taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe?

Yes! Swap the ground lamb with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute, and keep the wonderful spices and toppings for a fulfilling vegetarian alternative.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

For sure! The lamb filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just reheat gently before assembling the stuffed sweet potatoes to save time on a busy day.

What if I don’t have pomegranate syrup? Is there a substitute?

If you can’t find pomegranate syrup, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can provide a similar tangy-sweet finish to complement the dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your gyro seasoning and any additional sauces or glazes are free from gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Making this Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a joyful experience that brings a little taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with textures that range from creamy to crunchy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners, entertaining friends, or simply enjoying a nourishing and beautiful meal any day of the week.