Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (approx. 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (5 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (1.25 ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (227g), softened
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (113g)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (57g)
  • 1/2 cup milk (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, diced (60ml)
  • 1 tablespoon jalapeño brine (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin (5 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (2.5 ml)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 pound ground beef (454g) or plant-based ground beef substitute
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (150g)
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced (150g)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (approx. 1 oz / 28g)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • Diced avocado (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato rounds with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on baking sheets.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until tender and slightly browned.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine cream cheese, Monterey Jack, cheddar cheese, milk, diced jalapeños, jalapeño brine, cumin, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and melted.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef (or plant-based substitute) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange baked sweet potato rounds on a serving platter. Spoon queso evenly over each round. Top with ground beef mixture.
  6. Garnish with your favorite toppings (sour cream, avocado, cilantro, green onions, hot sauce). Serve immediately.