Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets

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Savor the mouth-watering blend of sweet potatoes and taco-seasoned meat in these easy-to-prepare Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets. Cooked to perfection either in the oven or on the grill, this delicious and wholesome meal is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Try some of our other favorite foil packet meals next — these Hobo Foil PacketsBaked Potato Foil Packs, or Foil Pack French Dip Sandwiches.

Overhead image of the Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets

Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets 

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet came to life on a whim and quickly gained popularity in my household. Everyone loves the flavors and ingredients, and I appreciate its simplicity and nutritional benefits.

Another favorite of my kids? Foil pack meals! They simply can’t get enough of them, likely because they love the idea of having their own individual meal in a personalized packet. So, I thought, why not combine these two concepts into one easy-to-make and tasty dish? The result has been an undeniable hit with the entire family! 

This foil packet meal is a delightful combination of tender sweet potatoes and savory, seasoned ground beef or turkey, cooked together in a single, personalized packet. The blend of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and wholesome dish that’s both easy to prepare and fun to eat. The convenience of cooking everything in the foil packet not only saves time but also makes a quick cleanup!

Ingredient shot-- image of all the ingredients used in this dish

Ingredient Tips

  1. Sweet potatoes: Choose firm, evenly shaped sweet potatoes without any bruises or soft spots. Store them in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor and freshness. Have leftover potatoes? You’ve got to try our practically famous Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe.
  2. Red onion: Choose a firm onion with tight, dry skin. Store onions in a cool, dark place for maximum freshness. You can also use white or yellow onions if red onions are not available.
  3. Black beans: Rinse canned black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium. If you aren’t a fan of black beans, try pinto beans instead!
  4. Sharp Cheddar cheese: Grate your own cheese from a block for the best melting consistency and flavor. Alternatively, use a blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack.
  5. Taco seasoning and enchilada sauce: To add lots of flavor to the meat, without a long ingredient list, we rely on a couple of shortcuts: a taco seasoning packet and red enchilada sauce. Enchilada sauce can vary greatly in flavor and heat from brand to brand. Personally, I love and recommend Old El Paso® mild red enchilada sauce in this recipe.
  6. Ground turkey: More about the meat in the next section!

QUICK TIP

If you prefer to make your own seasoning mix or sauce for these Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets, we’ve got you covered! Try our go-to taco seasoning recipe or our homemade enchilada sauce.

QUICK TIP

TACO SEASONING MIX:
1 Taco Seasoning Packet:
1 tablespoon ground chili powder
1 teaspoon each: ground cumin, paprika
1/2 teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano
Fine sea salt & pepper

Make a batch of taco seasoning packets and keep on hand for your Mexican recipes!
To make 4 packets, use 4TB chili powder, 4 TB chili powder,
1 TB each: cumin, and paprika, 2 tsp each: onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano.

Process shots of Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets-- images of the sweet potato cubes being boiled and then the onions being sautéed

What Meat To Use

For these Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets, I like to use lean ground turkey. With all the seasonings, sauce, and cheese we add to the turkey, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor it has! That said, feel free to use lean (93/7) ground beef instead. (Or, try the beef chuck roast from our Shredded Beef Enchiladas recipe)

To elevate the flavor and achieve the best texture, sear the meat in a hot skillet before breaking it up and cooking completely. This process forms a flavorful crust on the meat, contributing to the dish’s overall depth of flavor and enhancing the meat’s texture.

Remember to brown the meat before adding it to the foil packet to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked when the dish is complete.

Process shots-- images of the meat being browned and then seasonings, enchilada sauce, and black beans being added

How To Make Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets (Tips)

  1. Cut sweet potatoes into small, even, and consistent 1/2-inch cubes: Uniform size allows for even cooking and perfectly tender potatoes throughout the dish. The recommended cooking times are based on this specific size.
  2. Precook the sweet potatoes: Boiling the sweet potatoes briefly before assembling the foil packets ensures they will be fully cooked and tender. Be careful not to overcook them, since they will continue to cook a bit in the foil packets.
  3. Use heavy-duty foil: Opt for heavy-duty aluminum foil to avoid tearing and ensure your packets remain sealed during cooking. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Seal foil packets securely: Fold the long ends of the foil together and fold them down to create a tight seal. Fold in the sides to prevent any leaks, making sure the packets are completely sealed.
  5. Let packets rest before opening: Allow the foil packets to rest for a minute after removing them from the oven or grill. This helps the steam redistribute and the flavors meld together.
  6. Be cautious of the steam when opening packets: Open the foil packets carefully, as steam will be released, and that can cause burns. Use tongs or oven mitts for extra protection.

Process shots of Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets-- image of all the cooked ingredients in a pot

Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packet Toppings

Get creative with your toppings! Here are some of our favorites:

  • Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal touch to the dish. Green onions are another great option if you don’t love cilantro.
  • Lime wedges brighten the flavors.
  • Diced ripe avocado providesa welcome creaminess to the meal. Guacamole is also delicious here!
  • Sour cream offers a tangy, rich contrast to the savory taco flavors. I love to mix 2 tablespoons light sour cream with 1 tablespoon lime juice for a tangy and creamy drizzle. SO good!
  • Pico de gallo is a fresh tomato-based salsa that brings a burst of flavor and color. Even a few diced cherry tomatoes are delicious.
  • Sliced jalapeños are perfect for those who prefer a spicy kick. Use either fresh or pickled jalapeños.
  • Hot sauce drizzled to reach your heat preferences boosts the savoriness factor.
  • Crushed tortilla chips add a crunchy texture and a hint of saltiness to the dish.
  • Cotija mild Mexican cheese adds a nice finishing touch of salty-savoriness.

Process shots-- images of the foil packs being layered in and sealed

What To Serve Alongside Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets

Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets are a complete and satisfying meal on their own, but you can also serve them with some complementary side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Rice: A side of Mexican Rice or cilantro-lime rice pairs well with the flavors of the foil packets and adds an extra element of heartiness to the meal.
  2. Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy dressing, like a cilantro-lime dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the foil packets.
  3. Vegetables: Serve up roasted Corn and Bell Peppers or zucchini for a delicious side dish that complements the smoky, grilled flavors of the foil packets.
  4. Tortilla chips and salsa: A side of crispy tortilla chips and your favorite salsa add a crunchy texture to the meal.
  5. Refried beans: Serve refried beans (or these truly incredible Pinto Beans on the side for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
  6. Cornbread: A warm slice of Cornbread (or these Cornbread Muffins) can add a comforting, slightly sweet element to the meal, complementing the savory flavors of the foil packets.

Up close image of the Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets ready to be enjoyed

More Foil Packet Meals:

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Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets

5 from 1 vote
Savor the mouth-watering blend of sweet potatoes and taco-seasoned meat in these easy-to-prepare Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets. Cooked to perfection either in the oven or on the grill, this delicious and wholesome meal is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Print Recipe

Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets

5 from 1 vote
Savor the mouth-watering blend of sweet potatoes and taco-seasoned meat in these easy-to-prepare Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets. Cooked to perfection either in the oven or on the grill, this delicious and wholesome meal is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Healthy
Keyword Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 packets
Chelsea Lords
Calories 632kcal
Cost $11.23

Equipment

  • Heavy Duty Foil (Note 1)

Ingredients

  • 4 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes (Note 2)
  • 1 pkt (1 oz.) taco seasoning (Note 3)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup diced red onion, optional (1 onion)
  • 1 lb. (16 oz) lean (93/7) ground turkey or ground beef
  • ¾ cup mild red enchilada sauce (Note 4)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 packed cup freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese (Note 5)
  • Fine sea salt & pepper
  • Add your favorite taco toppings: fresh cilantro or green onions, fresh lime, ripe diced avocado or guac, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, etc. (Note 6)

Instructions

  • PREP: Preheat the oven to 425°F or the grill to 425-450°F. Tear off four large pieces of heavy-duty foil and generously spray with cooking spray.
  • SWEET POTATOES: Bring a large pot of water (8 cups) to a boil. Once boiling, salt the water (I add 1 tbsp. salt). Add diced sweet potatoes and boil for 5-7 minutes or until just cooked (still a bit firm; they'll cook more in packet). Drain, then right in the colander, toss to coat with salt & pepper (I add ¼ tsp of each).
  • TACO MEAT: In a large skillet over high heat, add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Push the onion to the edges of pan and add the ground turkey or beef to the center of the pan. Let the meat sear (brown) before crumbling with a wooden spoon and browning most of the way through, about 3-5 minutes. Drain or remove any grease if needed.
  • FINISH MEAT: Reduce the heat to medium and add the taco seasoning. Stir until the meat is fully cooked through and the seasoning is fragrant, about 1-3 minutes. Add the enchilada sauce and simmer until nicely thickened. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the drained and rinsed black beans. Taste for salt & pepper adding more if needed.
  • ASSEMBLE: Divide the sweet potatoes evenly among the foil sheets. Top each packet with a packed ¼ cup cheese, then add the taco meat mixture in an even layer on top.
  • WRAP THE PACKETS: Bring the long ends of the foil together and fold them down to seal the packets. Fold in the sides to ensure the packets are fully sealed. Do not double wrap in foil.
  • BAKE/GRILL: Place packets on a sheet pan or right on the grill grates of the fully heated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes on the grill or 15-20 minutes in the oven. Let stand 1 minute (still sealed) out of oven or grill; then carefully open, expecting a burst of steam to be released. Give everything a really good stir. Add your favorite taco toppings and dig in!

Video

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Heavy-duty foil: Heavy-duty foil is thicker and more durable, which makes it better for cooking applications like foil packs. While it may seem like a good idea to add an extra layer of foil for added strength, it can actually change the cooking time and make it less predictable.
Note 2: Sweet potatoes: Cut potatoes into small, even, and consistent 1/2-inch cubes. Uniform size allows for even cooking and perfectly tender potatoes throughout. The recommended cooking times are based on this specific size.
Note 3: Taco seasoning: To make your own seasoning blend, combine the following and use in place of the package: 1 tablespoon ground chili powder, 1 teaspoon each: ground cumin, paprika and 1/2 teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, fine sea salt, pepper.
Note 4: Enchilada sauce: This ingredient can vary greatly in flavor and heat from brand to brand. Personally, I love and recommend Old El Paso® mild red enchilada sauce. If you aren’t able to find this specific brand, I’d recommend tasting the enchilada sauce first and making sure it isn’t too spicy and that you enjoy the flavor. Alternatively, try our fave homemade Enchilada Sauce.
Note 5: Sharp Cheddar: We recommend using sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar for this recipe It has a richer and more pungent flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Be sure to use freshly grated cheese to avoid any excess oil or grease in your foil packs. Gently pack cheese in a measuring cup for accurate measurement.
Note 6: Sour cream drizzle: I love to whisk 2 tablespoons light sour cream with 1 tablespoon lime juice until smooth. Transfer to a bag, snip off the tip, and drizzle over packets. SO good! Obviously, this can be doubled (or tripled). 

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 632kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 1873mg | Potassium: 1147mg | Fiber: 17g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 20872IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 301mg | Iron: 6mg

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

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