Name: Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks: A Colorful Comfort Food Wonder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Sweet Potatoes (Provides sweetness and structure); 2 medium Beets (Adds earthy flavor and color); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Enhances flavor and aids in roasting); 1 teaspoon Salt (Elevates the dish's overall flavor); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds spice note); 1 cup Basil Pesto (Offers herbaceous flavor and creaminess); 1 ball Burrata (Contributes creaminess and richness); ½ cup Walnuts (Adds crunch and nutty flavor); 1 handful Microgreens/Basil (Provides freshness and garnishing)

There’s something truly delightful about creating a dish that not only looks stunning but also bursts with flavor. Enter the Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks with Pesto, Burrata, and Walnuts. This vibrant vegetarian creation is more than just food; it’s an experience that will transform any meal into a celebration. Picture crisp slices of sweet potatoes and earthy beets, perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, layered together with creamy burrata and a drizzle of fresh basil pesto. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your lunch, these stacks promise to impress your taste buds and aesthetics alike.

As I layered the bright colors of sweet potatoes and beets on my platter, I couldn’t help but marvel at how something so simple could turn into a showstopper. The combination of textures—from the crunchy walnuts to the silkiness of burrata—creates a perfect harmony that leaves you craving more. Not only is this dish stunning to look at, but it’s also gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into this Mediterranean-inspired recipe that’s destined to become a favorite in your home!

Why are Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks so special?

Vibrant Colors: Each bite of these stacks is a feast for the eyes, featuring the stunning contrast of orange sweet potatoes and deep purple beets.
Earthy & Sweet Flavors: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes perfectly complements the earthy taste of beets, creating a balanced and delightful palate experience.
Creamy Texture: Topped with luscious burrata, these stacks bring a rich creaminess that enhances every layer.
Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have an impressive dish ready in no time, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Nutritional Benefits: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this dish is guilt-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a gathering or a cozy meal at home, these visually stunning stacks are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks Ingredients

For the Vegetable Layers
• Sweet Potatoes – Provides sweetness and structure; can be replaced with regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Beets – Adds earthy flavor and color; substitute with parsnips for similar texture and sweetness.

For Roasting
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids in roasting; use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
• Salt – Elevates the dish’s overall flavor; sea salt adds a more nuanced taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a spice note; freshly ground pepper provides the best flavor.

For the Assembly
• Basil Pesto – Offers herbaceous flavor and creaminess; swap with a dairy-free version for dietary restrictions.
• Burrata – Contributes creaminess and richness; vegan cheese can replace it for a dairy-free option.
• Walnuts – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; pecans or slivered almonds can substitute for different textures.

For Garnishing
• Microgreens/Basil – Provides freshness and garnishing; use arugula or edible flowers for a vibrant finish.

These Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks are not just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that elevate any meal!

How to Make Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your vegetable stacks roast evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.
Slice the sweet potatoes and beets into ½ inch rounds. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts; a consistent thickness helps them cook evenly.
Toss the vegetable slices in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated. This step is crucial for bringing out their natural flavors while roasting.
Spread the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet without overlapping. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are fork-tender and have golden edges.
Layer the roasted vegetables on a platter, alternating between sweet potato and beet slices. Add dollops of basil pesto in between each layer to infuse flavor.
Tear the burrata and layer it generously on top of the stacks. The creaminess of the burrata adds a luxurious touch that complements the roasted vegetables beautifully.
Garnish the stacks with chopped walnuts and microgreens or basil leaves for a touch of freshness and crunch. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for an extra flavor boost.

Optional: For an added touch, sprinkle with a bit of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the beautiful flavors and textures of this stack.

Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the burrata beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf provides a hearty base, and its fluffy texture enhances the dish’s overall presentation.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for scooping up every bit of the vibrant pesto.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus sprinkled with lemon zest brings brightness that will lift the entire meal.
Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A creamy herbed yogurt sauce can add another layer of flavor that pairs excellently with the earthy stacks.
White Wine Spritzer: This refreshing drink, with its zingy notes, cuts through the creaminess and compliments the vibrant flavors in the dish.
Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich, velvety dark chocolate mousse offers a sweet contrast to the savory stacks, making it a lovely finish.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks

Uniform Slices: Ensure your sweet potatoes and beets are sliced evenly at ½ inch for consistent roasting and stacking; this prevents uneven cooking.
Layer With Care: Alternate layers of sweet potatoes and beets with basil pesto to maximize flavor; this also makes the presentation more appealing.
Roast to Perfection: Keep an eye on the roasting time—flipping the veggies halfway ensures they caramelize nicely without burning.
Separate Storage: If making ahead, store roasted vegetables and pesto together but keep burrata separately to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing Alert: Avoid freezing burrata and pesto; their textures won’t hold up well after thawing, impacting your final dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can roast the sweet potatoes and beets up to 48 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture and prevent drying out. The basil pesto can also be made ahead and refrigerated overnight, while the burrata should be kept separate until it’s time to serve to keep its creamy texture intact. When ready to assemble, simply layer the roasted veggies, add the pesto, tear the burrata over the top, and garnish with walnuts and microgreens for a stunning presentation that remains just as delicious!

Storage Tips for Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. It’s best to store the burrata separately to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: These stacks can be frozen for up to 1 month, but separate the layers and avoid freezing the burrata and pesto to preserve their unique textures.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that delightful warmth!

Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks Variations

Get ready to make this dish your own! Explore these delightful twists to elevate your Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks even further.

Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture without nuts.
Herb Swaps: Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil for a vibrant flavor twist.
Cheese Alternatives: Try creamy goat cheese in place of burrata for an added tang that pairs beautifully with the earthy beets.
Flavor Boost: A sprinkle of smoked paprika will add warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Mini Versions: Create bite-sized stacks for appetizers by using smaller vegetable rounds—perfect for parties!
Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle with a touch of honey and red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy combination that excites the palate.
Roasted Garlic: Toss in roasted garlic cloves with the vegetables for a rich, aromatic touch that everyone will love.
Tangy Finish: A splash of lemon juice before serving brightens flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Play with these variations to make the recipe uniquely yours!

Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks Recipe FAQs

What kind of sweet potatoes should I use for the Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks?
I recommend using medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes that have smooth skin and no dark spots. This ensures they roast beautifully and maintain their sweetness throughout the cooking process.

How should I store leftovers from the Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. It’s best to keep the burrata separately in its own container to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks?
Absolutely! You can freeze the roasted vegetable layers without the burrata and pesto for up to 1 month. Just let them cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my beets are too earthy tasting?
If you find your beets are too earthy for your liking, consider adding a bit of balsamic glaze or citrus juice when layering the stacks. This little boost can balance out the flavors beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
If you’re preparing Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks for someone with nut allergies, you can easily omit the walnuts and replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts. Always be sure to check all ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination!

Can the burrata be replaced in this recipe for a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can replace burrata with a vegan cheese alternative to make the Sweet Potato & Beet Stacks dairy-free. I often use cashew cheese or a creamy dairy-free ricotta, which provides a similar texture and richness while keeping it vegan-friendly.