Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes work excellently and pair well with the same spices, though the dish will lack the unique sweetness that plays so well with chipotle.

They do have a noticeable smoky heat thanks to the chipotle. If you prefer milder flavors, use less chipotle powder or skip the chipotle in adobo. Feel free to taste as you mix and adjust to your comfort level.

What’s the best way to make these ahead for a party?

Bake and stuff the potatoes as instructed, then stop before the second bake. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, sprinkle on cheese and bake 20–25 minutes so they're piping hot and the cheese is melted.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite vegan shredded cheese and skip any animal-based toppings. The natural creaminess of sweet potato keeps the filling rich and satisfying.

Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Name: Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 sweet potatoes; 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Looking for a dish that’s as bold in flavor as it is easy to make? These Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are pure comfort with a kick. With fluffy, spiced sweet potato filling, melty cheese, earthy spinach, and a swirl of smoky chipotle heat, each bite is sweet, spicy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Even better, this is a fantastic make-ahead option—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and special but don’t want to spend your whole evening in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Prep, Big Flavor: With a few pantry staples, some fresh veggies, and a single baking sheet, you’re well on your way to a super flavorful meal.
Satisfying and Nutritious: Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Combined with spinach and cheese, this dish is as nourishing as it is comforting.
Flexible for Any Night: Make them ahead or pop them in the oven while you do other things—either way, dinner is sorted.
A Crowd Pleaser: Whether serving vegetarians, spice lovers, or picky eaters, you can easily adjust the flavors to win everyone over.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this dish together—and why each is essential:

Sweet potatoes (the star): Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with chipotle’s smoky heat. Choose firm, evenly sized potatoes for consistent cooking.
Lime juice: Adds tangy brightness that wakes up all the flavors.
Minced garlic: Deep, savory flavor that absolutely can’t be skipped.
Ground cumin: Gives earthy warmth and ties together the Tex-Mex profile.
Chipotle chili powder: Adds earthy, smoky heat. Start with less if you prefer mild spice.
Chipotle in adobo sauce: This is where that signature smoky, spicy depth comes from.
Baby spinach: Wilts into the filling for a hit of greens without overwhelming the potato.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a melty, creamy finish. (Feel free to mix in other cheeses you love.)
Fresh cilantro: For a pop of herbal freshness right on top.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Why not put your own spin on these twice-baked sweet potatoes?

Add Protein: Fold cooked black beans or shredded rotisserie chicken into the filling for extra heartiness.
Cheese Swap: A sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack would be delicious if mozzarella isn’t your thing.
Spice It Up or Down: Like it even hotter? Add jalapeños or more chipotle. Prefer a milder flavor? Use smoked paprika instead of chipotle powder and go light with the adobo.
Go Vegan: Use vegan cheese and add a splash of coconut milk to make the filling creamy.
Extra Veggies: Dice up some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn kernels for extra flavor and texture.

How to Make Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub those sweet potatoes until they’re spotless, then dry them thoroughly. Line a baking sheet with parchment or give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the potatoes on the sheet and roast for 40-60 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Thin sweet potatoes? Closer to 40 minutes. Really big ones? Aim for an hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Let the baked potatoes cool for 5 minutes so you don’t burn your hands. Slice each one in half lengthwise. Gently scoop out the fluffy insides, leaving a thin border so the skins hold their shape.

Transfer the potato flesh to a mixing bowl and mash it until smooth. Stir in the lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chipotle chili powder, and chopped chipotle in adobo. While the mixture is still warm, fold in the fresh baby spinach so it wilts right into the hot filling.

Step 3: Assemble

Set your potato skins back onto the baking sheet. Generously fill each with the spicy, mashed sweet potato mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in! Sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella and a good handful of chopped fresh cilantro.

Step 4: Bake Again

Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. That’s when you know it’s time to eat!

If you’re a fan of crispy cheese, give them an extra few minutes under the broiler—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Microwave Shortcut: If you’re in a rush, microwave the sweet potatoes until just tender, then finish in the oven for flavor and texture.
Prep Ahead: Scoop and mash the potato filling up to a day in advance. Keep the skins and filling separate, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.
Uniform Potatoes: Use similar-sized sweet potatoes so they roast evenly.
Cheese Perfection: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded.

How to Serve

These Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them:

With a Simple Salad: A tangy green salad with avocado and tomatoes brightens the plate.
Alongside Grilled Protein: Serve as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or a plant-based protein.
Topped Up: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and some extra chopped cilantro for a cooling contrast.
Turn It Into a Bowl: Scoop the twice-baked filling over crisp greens, top with salsa and crushed tortilla chips for a fresh lunch bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sweet potato halves will hold up beautifully in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Wrap potatoes tightly in foil and place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and cheese is bubbly—about 15 minutes. In a pinch, microwave on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes work excellently and pair well with the same spices, though the dish will lack the unique sweetness that plays so well with chipotle.
Are these spicy?

They do have a noticeable smoky heat thanks to the chipotle. If you prefer milder flavors, use less chipotle powder or skip the chipotle in adobo. Feel free to taste as you mix and adjust to your comfort level.
What’s the best way to make these ahead for a party?

Bake and stuff the potatoes as instructed, then stop before the second bake. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, sprinkle on cheese and bake 20–25 minutes so they’re piping hot and the cheese is melted.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite vegan shredded cheese and skip any animal-based toppings. The natural creaminess of sweet potato keeps the filling rich and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe truly hits the sweet spot between flavor-packed comfort, dependable simplicity, and wholesome goodness. Whether you need a new weeknight favorite or a standout dish for guests, give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together—and once you taste that perfect, smoky, cheesy bite, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! Enjoy your kitchen adventure!