Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Hearty vegetarian tacos with roasted sweet potato and spiced black beans. This mexican-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian, vegan option) ready in about 35 minutes pairs medium, cubed sweet potatoes, can, drained black beans, small corn tortillas for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.3 (9 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) by placing rack in center and allowing it to fully heat for 10-15 minutes. Tip: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy, as inconsistent temperatures affect roasting time.
  2. Step 2: Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl, then add 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and to taste salt. Toss with a spatula until each piece is evenly coated in the oil and spices. Tip: For even roasting, ensure the sweet potatoes are in a single layer on the baking sheet without overlapping.
  3. Step 3: Spread sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Tip: If the sweet potatoes begin to brown too quickly, tent the sheet with aluminum foil for the final 5 minutes.
  4. Step 4: In a small saucepan, add 15 oz drained black beans and 1/8 tsp cumin (or to taste). Heat over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are warmed through and slightly thickened. Tip: Avoid boiling the beans, as it can cause them to break down and become mushy.
  5. Step 5: Warm corn tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-45 seconds per side, until pliable and slightly charred at the edges. Tip: Tortillas should be soft but not gummy; if they become too dry, lightly dampen them with water before heating.
  6. Step 6: For each taco, place a warm tortilla on a plate, then layer 1/2 cup roasted sweet potato, 1/2 cup black beans, 1/4 sliced avocado, and 1 tbsp chopped cilantro. Press down gently with the back of a spoon to compress the filling. Tip: Use a tortilla warmer or microwave for 10-15 seconds if tortillas become too stiff.
  7. Step 7: Top each taco with 1 tbsp sour cream, then squeeze 1/2 lime wedge over the top until the sour cream is lightly glistening. Tip: For a tangier flavor, add a pinch of salt to the sour cream before spooning it onto the taco.
  8. Step 8: Serve tacos immediately with remaining lime wedges on the side, along with extra cilantro for garnishing. Tip: For a crispier texture, let tacos rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the tortillas to firm up slightly.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep medium, cubed sweet potatoes from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, vegan option based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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