Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Mushrooms and Cream Cheese

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### **Instructions:**

#### **1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:**
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. While the oven heats up, place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Prick each sweet potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while they cook. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Roast the sweet potatoes for about **45-60 minutes**, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Depending on the size of the potatoes, cooking times may vary, so be sure to check for tenderness.

#### **2. Prepare the Mushroom Filling:**
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about **4-5 minutes**.

Add the **garlic** and sauté for another **1 minute** until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become browned, about **7-10 minutes**. Season with **salt, pepper**, and **smoked paprika**. Stir occasionally to ensure the mushrooms cook evenly.

Once the mushrooms are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

#### **3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:**
In a small bowl, combine the softened **cream cheese** with **sour cream** (if using) and **Parmesan cheese** (if using). Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.

#### **4. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes:**
Once the sweet potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Slice each potato down the center, but don’t cut all the way through. Gently fluff the insides with a fork to create space for the filling.

Spoon the creamy **mushroom mixture** into the center of each sweet potato. Top with the creamy cheese mixture, spreading it evenly across the mushroom stuffing.

#### **5. Serve and Garnish:**
Once all the sweet potatoes are stuffed, return them to the oven for about **5-10 minutes** to warm everything through and allow the flavors to meld together.

Before serving, garnish the stuffed sweet potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

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### **Why You’ll Love Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Mushrooms and Cream Cheese:**

1. **Nutritious:** Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, and antioxidants. Pairing them with mushrooms and cream cheese provides a great mix of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

2. **Comforting:** The creamy filling and roasted sweet potatoes create a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cooler weather or when you’re craving something filling and satisfying.

3. **Versatile:** This dish can be served as a hearty main for vegetarians or as a side dish to complement any protein, such as grilled chicken or steak. You can also customize it by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses.

4. **Simple to Prepare:** With a few simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal, but also elegant enough to serve at dinner parties.

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### **Variations and Add-Ins:**

– **Add Greens:** For extra color and nutrients, you can stir in some spinach or kale into the mushroom filling. These greens will wilt beautifully as you sauté the mushrooms, adding depth to the flavor.

– **Make it Spicy:** For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mushroom mixture.

– **Protein Boost:** Add cooked bacon bits, ground turkey, or shredded chicken to the mushroom filling to create a more substantial meal.

– **Cheese Variations:** If you love cheese, feel free to swap the Parmesan for goat cheese, cheddar, or any other cheese of your choice. Each will bring a unique twist to the dish.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

These **Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Mushrooms and Cream Cheese** are a perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian dish or a side that will elevate your main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The creamy, savory mushrooms complement the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, and the cream cheese adds a luxurious richness that’s hard to resist.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting yet nutritious, give this easy and delicious recipe a try!