Air fryers make it easy to enjoy the taste and texture of baked sweet potatoes in a fraction of the time. This air fryer recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a savory filling of spinach and feta cheese.
Let’s dive into this easy air fryer recipe and make some delicious stuffed sweet potatoes.
Ingredient
Here’s what you’ll need to make these air fryer baked spinach and feta stuffed sweet potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Choose similar-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Baby spinach is tender and ideal for this recipe, but regular spinach works too.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese: Feta adds a salty, tangy note that complements the sweet potato.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the spinach.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the savory flavor of the filling.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
- Optional garnish: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add color and flavor.
This recipe makes two stuffed sweet potatoes, ideal for two servings. If you need more, feel free to double the ingredients.
How to Make Spinach and Feta Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these air fryer stuffed sweet potatoes:
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes for Air Frying
Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Use a scrub brush to remove any dirt from the skin. Then, pat them dry with a towel.
Next, use a fork to pierce each sweet potato several times. This will help the steam escape during cooking and allow the sweet potatoes to cook more evenly.
Step 2: Air Fry the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching each other for optimal air circulation.
Cook the sweet potatoes for 35–40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the specific air fryer model you’re using. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
The sweet potatoes should be soft when pierced with a fork and have a slightly crispy skin.
Step 3: Prepare the Spinach and Feta Filling
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, make the filling. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Next, add the spinach to the skillet. Sauté the spinach until it wilts, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the spinach for seasoning.
Once the spinach is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for a minute.
Add the crumbled feta cheese to the spinach and gently stir until well combined. The feta will stay somewhat firm, adding a lovely texture and burst of flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the Sweet Potatoes
When the sweet potatoes are finished cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. Allow them to cool for a few minutes so they’re easier to handle.
Using a knife, slice each sweet potato lengthwise down the middle, creating an opening but not cutting all the way through.
Use a fork to gently mash the sweet potato flesh, creating a little well for the filling. Season with a small pinch of salt and pepper.
Spoon the spinach and feta mixture into each sweet potato, packing it generously.
The bright green spinach and crumbly feta look beautiful against the orange of the sweet potato, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
To add a little extra flavor and color, garnish your stuffed sweet potatoes with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Here are a few tips to help you make the best air fryer stuffed sweet potatoes:
- Choose similar-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking. If they’re very different in size, some may cook faster than others.
- Flip halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
- Check for doneness early if your air fryer runs hot. Sweet potatoes vary in size and density, so they may cook faster or slower than expected.
- Use a light olive oil spray instead of regular olive oil to coat the air fryer basket if sticking is a concern.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe is a fantastic combination of flavors and textures, and it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making them a great choice for healthy skin and immunity.
- Spinach provides iron, calcium, and vitamin K, giving you an extra boost of nutrients.
- Feta cheese adds protein, calcium, and a savory tang, bringing balance to the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
The best part? You can have this impressive, delicious meal ready in under an hour, with minimal prep and easy cleanup thanks to the air fryer.
Recipe Variations and Ideas
If you want to experiment with this recipe or adjust it to your dietary needs, here are some ideas:
- Make it vegan: Substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese or cashew cheese for a vegan option.
- Add extra protein: Mix in cooked chickpeas or white beans with the spinach and feta for added protein and texture.
- Try different greens: Kale or Swiss chard can replace spinach for a slightly different taste.
- Use different cheese: Goat cheese or ricotta would also work wonderfully with sweet potatoes if feta isn’t your favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed sweet potatoes on their own for a light meal, or pair them with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a heartier meal.
They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main dish or a side, making them a great option for dinner parties or family meals.
