These stuffed sweet potatoes are a fun and tasty dish! Filled with seasoned turkey and topped with your favorite goodies, they are both healthy and filling.
Whenever I make these, I just can’t resist sprinkling some cheese on top. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in more veggies! Yum! 🥔🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory turkey. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different twist.
Ground Turkey: Lean and light, ground turkey is a great choice here. If you’re looking for something lower in fat, go for ground chicken or turkey breast. For a richer flavor, consider ground beef or pork.
Dried Cranberries: These add a lovely sweetness and chew. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute raisins or chopped dried apricots. Fresh cranberries can also work, but they will need to be cooked down a bit.
Fresh Greens: Spinach or arugula is a wonderful addition! If you don’t have these, kale or even chopped parsley can add a nice touch of freshness. Just make sure to chop them well.
How Do You Make the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Tender?
Getting your sweet potatoes to the perfect tenderness is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by washing them well and pricking holes in them with a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking.
- Place them on a baking sheet for even cooking. Roasting at 400°F for 45-60 minutes is ideal for soft, fluffy potatoes.
- Check tenderness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily.
These tips help to ensure your sweet potatoes are just right for stuffing!
How to Make Stuffed Sweet Potatoes With Turkey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach or arugula, sliced thinly
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 60 minutes to cook. So, set aside about 70 minutes total to enjoy this delicious stuffed sweet potato meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the sweet potatoes until they are tender and fluffy.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and prick them several times with a fork. This helps steam escape while baking. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they feel tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Cook the Filling:
While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Add the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Season it with smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook the turkey, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Mix in the Cranberries:
Now, stir in half of the dried cranberries and cook for another 1-2 minutes so they soften up a bit. This adds a delicious sweetness to the turkey mixture.
6. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes for Stuffing:
When the sweet potatoes are done roasting and cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff and gently mash the sweet potato flesh inside to create a little pocket for the filling.
7. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes:
Generously fill each sweet potato half with the turkey mixture. Be as generous as you like—this is where all the flavor is!
8. Add Fresh Greens and Cheese:
Top each stuffed sweet potato with sliced fresh spinach or arugula and the remaining dried cranberries. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy touch.
9. Final Touch in the Oven:
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, just to warm everything through and slightly melt the cheese if you’re using it.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious stuffed sweet potatoes with turkey!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground turkey is a lean option, you can substitute it with ground chicken, beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Just adjust the cooking time if using a different meat!
What Can I Substitute for Dried Cranberries?
If dried cranberries aren’t available, you can use raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh pomegranate seeds for a fruity twist. Just keep in mind that fresh options may need to be cooked a little longer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the turkey filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the stuffed sweet potatoes before baking them, or bake the sweet potatoes and stuff them just before serving. This can save time on busy days!
