Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes | Easy Air Fryer Side Dish

Indulge in the perfect side dish for your next meal with our irresistible Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe. These delectable sweet potatoes are roasted to caramelized perfection, then mashed and combined with a medley of mouthwatering ingredients. The result? A creamy, sweet, and savory delight that's sure to steal the spotlight at your dinner table.

Why You'll Love Sweet Potatoes This Way

• Quick and Easy. These Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are ready in under 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of your air fryer. This means you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying side dish with minimal effort.
• Sweet and Savory. The combination of sweet potatoes, creamy fillings, and savory toppings creates a delightful contrast of flavors that's simply irresistible. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
• Crispy Exterior. The air fryer gives these sweet potatoes a wonderfully crispy skin that pairs beautifully with the creamy interior. It's like enjoying the best of both worlds in one bite.
• Versatile. While these sweet potatoes make an excellent side dish for any meal, they're also a great option for holiday gatherings or as a cozy comfort food dish.

Does Baking Sweet Potatoes Make Them Sweeter?

Yes, baking sweet potatoes can make them taste sweeter. When sweet potatoes are baked, the natural starches in the potatoes convert into sugars, particularly as the potatoes caramelize during baking.

This caramelization process enhances their sweetness and results in a richer, more intense flavor compared to when they are raw or boiled.

Do Potatoes And Sweet Potatoes Cook At The Same Rate?

Potatoes and sweet potatoes do not necessarily cook at the same rate. The cooking time for both types of potatoes can vary depending on their size, variety, and the cooking method you use. Here are some general considerations:

• Size- Larger potatoes, whether regular or sweet, will generally take longer to cook than smaller ones. When cooking a mix of sizes, some may be ready before others.
• Variety- Different potato and sweet potato varieties can have varying cooking times. Some sweet potatoes are denser and may take longer to cook, while others are lighter and cook more quickly.

Why Are My Twice Baked Potatoes Gummy?

If your twice-baked potatoes are turning out gummy, it could be due to a few reasons. Here are some common causes and solutions to prevent gummy twice-baked potatoes:

• Overmixing- Overmixing the potato filling can lead to a gummy texture. When you mash the potatoes or mix in other ingredients, like cheese or sour cream, be gentle and avoid excessive stirring. Use a potato masher or a fork instead of an electric mixer.
• Overcooking- If you initially cook the potatoes for too long before baking them a second time, they can become overcooked and gummy. Boil or bake the potatoes until they are just tender, not mushy.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Sweet Potatoes- You'll need 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes as the star of the show. They provide a natural sweetness and a nutritious base for the filling.
• Olive Oil- A touch of olive oil is used to brush the sweet potatoes before air frying, ensuring they crisp up nicely.
• Salt and Black Pepper- These seasonings are added to taste to enhance the overall flavor of the sweet potatoes.
• Creamy Filling- To make the creamy filling, you'll need sour cream, softened butter, and milk. These ingredients create a luscious, velvety texture and add richness to the sweet potatoes.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese- Cheese lovers will appreciate the generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese, which melts into the filling and adds a satisfying cheesy goodness.
• Crispy Bacon- Crumbled bacon provides a salty, smoky flavor and a delightful crunch to contrast with the creamy filling.
• Green Onions- Thinly sliced green onions add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
• Seasonings- Garlic powder and paprika are used to season the creamy filling, adding depth of flavor and a touch of smokiness.
• Fresh Parsley- Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, offering a burst of freshness and a lovely green hue to the finished sweet potatoes.

How to Make Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes. Start by washing and scrubbing the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Dry them, then lightly brush each one with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. This sets the stage for a crispy exterior.
2. Air Fry. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This ensures even cooking and a crispy skin.
3. Prepare the Filling. While the sweet potatoes are air frying, prepare the creamy filling. Combine sour cream, softened butter, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and the filling is creamy and smooth.
4. Scoop and Fill. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer. Carefully slice off the top third of each sweet potato lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer to support the skin. Add the scooped-out flesh to the creamy filling mixture and blend until it's fully incorporated.
5. Refill and Air Fry Again. Stuff each sweet potato skin with the creamy filling mixture, mounding it slightly. Return the filled sweet potatoes to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and the filling is nicely melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle the twice baked sweet potatoes with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot as a delightful side dish or a standalone snack.

Tips And Tricks

Twice-baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish. Here are some tips and tricks to make the best sweet potatoes:

• Piping or Scooping. You can choose to pipe the mashed sweet potato mixture back into the skins using a piping bag for an elegant presentation, or you can simply scoop it in with a spoon.
• Mix-Ins. Add your choice of mix-ins like chopped pecans, chopped dried cranberries, mini marshmallows, or even crispy bacon bits for additional flavor and texture.
• Scoop Carefully. When scooping out the flesh, leave a thin layer attached to the skin to help the potatoes maintain their shape.

Variations

These Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can adjust the seasonings, add your favorite toppings, or experiment with different fillings to suit your taste preferences.

• Cinnamon and Brown Sugar- For a sweeter twist, skip the savory fillings and mix the sweet potato flesh with cinnamon, brown sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup before refilling the skins.
• Vegetarian- Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese to the filling for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spicy- Add a kick of spice with diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the filling for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Mediterranean- Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by mixing in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.

What To Serve With Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

These Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them a versatile side. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Protein- Serve them alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak for a well-rounded meal.
• Salad- Pair them with a fresh green salad or a colorful vegetable medley for a healthy and balanced plate.
• Soup- Enjoy them as a side dish with your favorite soup, such as tomato soup or butternut squash soup, for a comforting combination.
• Holiday Feast- Include them as a side dish for your holiday feasts, whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

How Long Do They Last?

Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are best enjoyed immediately when they are at their crispiest and the filling is piping hot. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

To reheat, use the air fryer or oven until they are heated through.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze twice-baked sweet potatoes for later use. Freezing them is a convenient way to enjoy this dish at a later time. Twice-baked sweet potatoes can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen twice-baked sweet potatoes, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Unwrap the thawed sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are heated through and the tops are lightly browned.

More Perfect Potato Recipes

• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
• Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
• Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
• Instant Pot Potato Salad
• Savory Potato Patties
• Grilled Sweet Potatoes
• Homemade French Fries

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