Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes with Sage and Pecans

A warm and comforting twist on a classic holiday side dish, these twice-baked sweet potatoes are infused with the earthy flavors of fresh sage and a delightful crunch from toasted pecans. Perfectly creamy and balanced, this dish is sure to elevate your Thanksgiving or holiday table.

Serves: 8

Tip: Choose sweet potatoes of similar size for even baking and consistent servings.

Ingredients

• 8 medium sweet potatoes (about 5 pounds)
• 1 1/3 cups finely chopped shallots (about 8 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 1/3 cups low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans (about 16 halves)
• Olive oil cooking spray

Directions

1. Bake the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Pierce each sweet potato with a fork and place on a baking sheet. Bake until tender, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Lower the oven temperature to 375°F.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • Cut off one side of each sweet potato and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving the skins intact for stuffing. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a medium bowl.
   • In a medium sauté pan, coat with olive oil cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add chopped sage and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the shallot and sage mixture to a food processor along with the cottage cheese and white pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble and Bake:

   • Spoon the potato mixture back into each potato shell, filling generously.
   • Top with chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.
   • Arrange the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and heated through.

4. To Serve: Place the warm, twice-baked sweet potatoes on a beautiful platter. Their vibrant color and fragrant sage aroma will add a festive touch to your holiday table.

This recipe is a lovely balance of rich and savory flavors that feel special yet comforting—a true embodiment of Living Beautifully.

Enjoy this dish alongside your other holiday favorites for a memorable feast that embodies warmth, elegance, and seasonal flavor.