If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing dinner that feels both comforting and a little elevated, these Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes hit the spot. Caramelized, tender sweet potatoes form the perfect base for a silky garlic mushroom sauce that’s rich without being heavy. Wilted spinach melts right into the pan, creating a sweet–savory balance that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, relaxed weekends, or a meatless meal that still feels complete.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally vegetarian and deeply satisfying
- Creamy, savory filling balanced by sweet roasted potatoes
- Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality results
- Easy technique with big flavor payoff
- Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining
Ingredients
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Large sweet potatoes (2, 10–12 oz each): Sweet, creamy centers that caramelize beautifully when roasted
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps the potatoes roast evenly and develop color
- Kosher salt (½ tsp): Enhances the natural sweetness
Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Filling
- Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the mushrooms
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Prevents butter from burning
- Cremini mushrooms, sliced (4 cups): Earthy, meaty texture that builds savory depth
- Shallot, minced (1 small): Mild onion flavor that blends smoothly into the sauce
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Aromatic backbone of the dish
- All-purpose flour (1 tbsp): Lightly thickens the sauce so it clings to the filling
- Vegetable broth (½ cup): Adds savory body without heaviness
- Heavy cream or half-and-half (½ cup): Creates a silky, luxurious sauce
- Kosher salt (¾ tsp) & black pepper (½ tsp): Essential seasoning
- Nutmeg (pinch): Subtle warmth that enhances the cream
- Baby spinach (5–6 cups): Wilts into the sauce for color and freshness
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Adds gentle tang and depth
- Lemon juice (1 tsp): Brightens and balances the cream
- Parmesan, finely grated (¼ cup, optional): Adds salty, nutty finish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise, rub with olive oil, and season with salt. Place cut side down on a lined baking sheet and roast for 35–45 minutes until very tender with caramelized edges. Tip: Cut-side-down roasting steams the inside while caramelizing the surface.
Brown the Mushrooms
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter with olive oil, then add mushrooms in an even layer. Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring only once, until deeply browned. Tip: Browning first prevents a watery sauce and builds savory flavor.
Build the Sauce
Add the shallot and cook 1 minute until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 30 seconds to lightly toast it. Slowly add broth, then cream, stirring constantly. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thick. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Add Spinach and Finish
Add spinach and toss until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in Dijon and lemon juice. Remove from heat and fold in Parmesan if using.
Assemble
Flip the roasted sweet potatoes cut side up and gently mash the centers with a fork. Spoon the creamy mushroom–spinach mixture generously over each half. Serve hot, optionally garnished with parsley.
Tips for Success
- Brown mushrooms thoroughly before adding liquids
- Keep sauce gently simmering to avoid splitting
- Adjust thickness with a splash of broth if needed
- Add acid at the end to keep the dish from tasting heavy
Equipment Needed
- Sheet pan with parchment paper
- Heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut cream in place of dairy
- Protein Boost: Stir in white beans or shredded rotisserie chicken
- Greens Swap: Use thinly sliced kale instead of spinach, sautéing a few minutes longer
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or crusty bread. Finish with cracked black pepper, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of chili crisp for heat.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the potatoes up to 2 days ahead and store refrigerated. Reheat before assembling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes can become watery and the sauce may split.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Whisk in warm vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until loosened.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes, simmer the sauce an extra minute to thicken properly.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes prove that comfort food can be both wholesome and deeply flavorful. With caramelized sweet potatoes and a silky garlic mushroom sauce, every bite feels cozy and satisfying. Try this recipe for a relaxed dinner at home, experiment with variations, and enjoy a dish that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.
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Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramelized sweet potatoes are topped with a creamy garlic mushroom and spinach sauce. Sweet–savory, silky, and satisfying enough for dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (10–12 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups sliced cremini mushrooms (about 12 oz)
- 1 small shallot, minced (or 2 tbsp onion)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ¾ tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper, pinch nutmeg
- 5–6 cups baby spinach (about 5 oz)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Halve sweet potatoes lengthwise, rub with olive oil and salt, and place cut side down on a lined baking sheet. Roast 35–45 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms in a single layer and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring once, until deeply browned.
- Add shallot and cook 1 minute. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir for 30 seconds. Gradually add broth, then cream, stirring constantly. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Stir in Dijon and lemon juice. Remove from heat and fold in Parmesan if using.
- Flip potatoes, lightly mash centers, and spoon mushroom–spinach sauce over each half. Serve hot.
Notes
- Brown mushrooms well to avoid a watery sauce.
- If sauce is too thick, loosen with 1–2 tbsp broth.
- Finish with parsley, cracked pepper, or chili crisp if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Vegetarian
- Method: Roast + Sauté
- Cuisine: American