Name: Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Herb Drizzle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim); 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 2 tbsp lemon juice, divided; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, cilantro, or dill); Optional toppings: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped nuts or seeds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful blend of taste, texture, and nutrition. The sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized, serving as the perfect base for a creamy spinach and ricotta filling. The herb drizzle adds brightness and a touch of elegance. It’s easy to make, full of fiber and protein, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re vegetarian or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, this dish checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and nourishment.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sweet potatoes
ricotta cheese
fresh spinach
garlic
olive oil
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, cilantro, or dill – for the drizzle)
optional: red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, or nuts/seeds for topping

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, then pierce each with a fork a few times. Place on the baking sheet and roast for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.
While the potatoes bake, heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with ricotta cheese. Add salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to taste.
For the herb drizzle, blend together fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust thickness with a little water if needed.
Once sweet potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes, then cut a slit down the center of each and gently mash the flesh with a fork to create a small well.
Spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture into each sweet potato.
Drizzle generously with the herb sauce before serving. Add toppings like Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45–60 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling for extra depth.
Use kale or chard in place of spinach.
Stir crumbled feta into the ricotta for a saltier flavor.
Make it vegan with plant-based ricotta or mashed tofu.
Add chickpeas or lentils to the filling for a protein boost.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Keep the herb drizzle separate and add it fresh after reheating for the best flavor.
This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of ricotta and spinach after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the filling ahead. Assemble and heat just before serving.

What kind of ricotta should I use?

Whole milk ricotta provides the richest flavor and texture, but part-skim also works well.

Is the herb drizzle necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended—it adds a fresh, tangy element that balances the richness of the filling.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing with ricotta.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

They should be fork-tender all the way through and have slightly crisp skin.

What herbs work best for the drizzle?

Parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or a mix of your favorites all work well.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely—use a dairy-free ricotta alternative or mashed tofu and skip the Parmesan.

What protein can I add to make it a more complete meal?

Grilled chicken, lentils, chickpeas, or even a poached egg pair nicely.

Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet?

You can, but you’ll lose the natural sweetness that complements the ricotta-spinach filling.

How can I make the filling more flavorful?

Add lemon zest, nutmeg, or crushed red pepper flakes for a flavor boost.

Conclusion

Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Herb Drizzle is a vibrant, wholesome dish that feels indulgent while staying light and nourishing. With creamy, savory filling and a fresh, herby finish, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and brightness. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a beautiful way to enjoy nutritious ingredients with bold, satisfying flavor.