Stuffed sweet potatoes with turkey make a warm and filling meal. The sweet potatoes are fluffy and sweet, while the seasoned turkey adds a tasty twist!
They are like little cozy boats of goodness! I love how easy they are to whip up, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. You can even top them with some cheese if you’re feeling adventurous! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory turkey. If you’re looking for a change, try butternut squash or acorn squash as a substitute.
Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, ground turkey makes this dish lighter. If you prefer, you can use ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are key to building flavor. Shallots can be a nice substitute for onion if you have them on hand, and garlic powder can work in a pinch for minced garlic.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika add warmth and depth. If you want more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper instead of chili powder. Experiment with your favorite spices!
Cilantro or Parsley: These fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, basil or green onions can be great alternatives.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sweet Potato Texture?
Getting your sweet potatoes just right is crucial for the best stuffed experience! Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly tender:
- Always pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork before baking. This allows steam to escape and helps them cook evenly.
- Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes. The cooking time varies by size, so test with a fork; it should glide through easily.
- Let them cool slightly before cutting. This prevents burns and makes them easier to handle.
Following these tips will give you delightful, fluffy sweet potatoes ready for your turkey filling!
How to Make Stuffed Sweet Potatoes With Turkey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
For The Turkey Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, to keep turkey moist)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 60-75 minutes total. You’ll need around 15 minutes to prep the ingredients and wash the sweet potatoes, plus about 45-60 minutes for baking the sweet potatoes and cooking the turkey filling. It’s a perfect meal to make while you wait for those tasty potatoes to roast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce them several times with a fork. This helps them cook evenly and lets steam escape!
2. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when you pierce them with a fork. You want them nice and fluffy!
3. Cook the Turkey Filling:
While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Add the Ground Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, using a spoon to break up the meat while it cooks.
5. Season the Filling:
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. If the mixture looks dry, splash in the broth to keep it moist. Cook it for another 2-3 minutes so all those flavors come together!
6. Finish the Turkey Filling:
Mix in the chopped cilantro or parsley, then remove the skillet from heat. Your filling is ready!
7. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes for Stuffing:
Once the sweet potatoes are done, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then scoop out some of the flesh into a bowl, leaving enough of the skin to hold the filling.
8. Combine and Fill:
If you’d like, mix some of the sweet potato flesh into the turkey filling for added creaminess. Then, spoon the turkey mix generously into each sweet potato half.
9. Add Optional Toppings:
If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the turkey filling. Then pop the stuffed potatoes back in the oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with extra fresh herbs or green onions for that perfect finishing touch. Your delicious stuffed sweet potatoes are ready to enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your hearty, savory meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even sausage can be great alternatives to ground turkey. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. If you added cheese, you may want to cover it to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use a vegan cheese if you want that cheesy topping!
How Do I Know When the Sweet Potatoes Are Done?
Check the sweet potatoes after 45 minutes by inserting a fork or knife. If it goes through easily without any resistance, they’re perfectly cooked. If not, give them a bit more time in the oven!
