Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
If you’re looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home. It’s a delightful mix of savory ground turkey, sweet corn, and vibrant bell peppers nestled in tender baked sweet potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not just delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients.
The best part? You can whip it up in about an hour! It’s an easy recipe that allows you to enjoy a healthy dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen. Let me walk you through how to make this delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from ground turkey and vitamins from sweet potatoes and veggies, it’s a balanced meal.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and simply stuff the sweet potatoes when you’re ready to eat.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato. You probably have most of these items already in your pantry!
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Variations
One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:
- Swap the protein: Instead of ground turkey, try using lean ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian twist.
- Add more veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your stuffed sweet potatoes an extra kick.
- Switch the cheese: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
Step 1: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by piercing each sweet potato with a fork several times. This allows steam to escape while they bake. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 40-50 minutes until they’re tender. This step is important because soft sweet potatoes create the perfect base for our flavorful filling.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
While your sweet potatoes are baking away, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Next, toss in minced garlic and chopped bell pepper; cook for another 2-3 minutes. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient—ground turkey! Break it apart with a spatula as you cook it in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Make sure it’s fully cooked through; this gives us that hearty protein boost we want in our meal.
Step 4: Add Spices and Corn
Once your turkey is cooked, stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these spices evenly coats everything with flavor. Then add corn kernels and diced tomatoes if you’re using them. Stir well and let it cook together for another few minutes so all those delicious flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Stuff Your Sweet Potatoes
When your sweet potatoes are baked to perfection, carefully slice them open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff up their insides; this creates space for our yummy filling! Spoon equal amounts of the ground turkey mixture into each one.
Step 6: Melt Cheese (Optional)
If you’d like some cheesy goodness on top, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each stuffed sweet potato. Pop them back into the oven for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Finally, if you want that fresh herb flavor kick, garnish your stuffed sweet potatoes with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy this warm meal right away—it’s sure to be a hit!
Pro Tips for Making Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
Crafting the perfect Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato can be a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve a delicious and satisfying result every time.
-
Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that feel firm and have smooth skin. This ensures they cook evenly and have a naturally sweet flavor that complements the savory filling.
-
Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow enough time for your sweet potatoes to bake until they’re tender. This step is crucial, as a perfectly baked sweet potato has a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the ground turkey mixture.
-
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some dried oregano for an aromatic touch can elevate the flavor profile of your dish.
-
Make Ahead for Meal Prep: These stuffed sweet potatoes are great for meal prep. You can bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the turkey mixture in advance, then assemble them when you’re ready to eat!
-
Customize Your Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the filling. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds more color and texture to your dish.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
Serving your Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some fun and creative ideas on how to present this wholesome meal.
Garnishes
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture and balances out the spices, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Sour Cream Alternative: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream adds a tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the stuffing.
Side Dishes
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a light, nutritious side that pairs well with your stuffed sweet potatoes.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a lovely crunch, while their earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the potato perfectly.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar introduces freshness and brightness, rounding out your meal beautifully.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy an irresistible dinner that’s both healthy and delicious! Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, making it a convenient option for healthy lunches or dinners.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the stuffed sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- To freeze, first, let the stuffed sweet potatoes cool completely.
- Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat stuffed sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes.
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer.
How do I make Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the ground turkey with cooked lentils or black beans. Add extra veggies for flavor and nutrition!
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the ground turkey filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before stuffing it into your baked sweet potatoes.
What toppings go well with Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or additional cheese are all great options to top off your stuffed sweet potatoes!
How do I know when my sweet potatoes are done baking?
Sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The skin should also appear slightly wrinkled.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delightful Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes! They offer a wonderful combination of flavors and nutrients that make mealtime both satisfying and wholesome. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings and toppings—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this recipe! Happy cooking!
Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Discover a wholesome and comforting dinner with this Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe. This delightful dish combines savory ground turkey with sweet corn and colorful bell peppers, all nestled in tender baked sweet potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these stuffed sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With just 15 minutes of prep time and about an hour to cook, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending all evening in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a customizable family-friendly recipe, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 40-50 minutes until tender.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and bell pepper; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, corn kernels, and optional diced tomatoes. Cook together for a few more minutes.
- Slice baked sweet potatoes open lengthwise and fluff insides with a fork. Stuff each potato with the turkey mixture.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed sweet potato (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
