Stuffed sweet potatoes have become a modern comfort food in the United States, blending the native American staple sweet potato with cheese‑filled fillings that echo European cheese‑stuffed breads. The viral TikTok trend popularized by Courtney Cooks turned this simple concept into a social‑media phenomenon, showcasing how home cooks reinterpret classic ingredients.

In the Southern U.S., sweet potatoes are often baked with marshmallows or brown sugar, while in the Pacific Northwest, they may be filled with smoked cheddar or goat cheese. The Butter Cas version adds a Wisconsin‑style buttery cheese, creating a unique Mid‑west twist to the dish.

The typical presentation is a whole roasted sweet potato with the top cut off, a stick of melted Butter Cas cheese slid into the center, and optionally a spoonful of kimchi or a drizzle of hot sauce on top. It is eaten hot, skin‑on, and often shared on video for the oozy cheese pull.

Because it is quick, visually impressive, and perfect for sharing, this dish is popular at casual gatherings, college dorm snack nights, and TikTok cooking challenges. It’s also a favorite comfort snack during fall and winter when sweet potatoes are in season.

The authentic ingredient is Butter Cas cheese, a buttery, slightly smoky Wisconsin cheese. If unavailable, sharp cheddar or smoked gouda work well as substitutes. The sweet potato itself should be firm and preferably orange, purple, or Japanese varieties for visual appeal.

They pair nicely with a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple coleslaw. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a bean chili.

The combination of a naturally sweet, caramelized potato with a rich, buttery cheese creates a contrast of flavors and textures that is both comforting and indulgent. The addition of kimchi adds a surprising umami and tang that elevates the dish beyond a simple cheese‑stuffed potato.

Common errors include under‑roasting the potatoes, which prevents caramelization, and inserting cold cheese into a cooled potato, which results in a solid cheese core. Always roast until soft and insert the cheese while the potato is still hot.

A higher temperature shortens cooking time while still achieving the same caramelized exterior and soft interior. The 3‑hour method works at a lower temperature for those with limited oven space or who prefer a slower, more even bake, but 425°F for 40 minutes is a practical home‑cook shortcut.

Yes, you can roast the potatoes ahead, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat before inserting the cheese. The cheese sticks should be kept chilled and added just before serving to maintain the oozy melt.

The YouTube channel Hey It's Honeysuckle focuses on fun, approachable home cooking videos that often explore viral food trends, quick snack ideas, and creative twists on classic comfort foods.

Hey It's Honeysuckle emphasizes clear, step‑by‑step demonstrations with a light‑hearted commentary style, often testing multiple variations (like different colored sweet potatoes) in a single video, whereas many channels simply replicate the trend without experimentation.