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Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

4.5 from 58 reviews

This Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe features tender sweet potatoes filled with a flavorful turkey mixture seasoned with spices, vegetables, and beans, then topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. It offers a balanced, nutritious meal combining protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 tsp avocado oil
  • 1/3 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

For the Turkey Filling:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped (freshly minced for best flavor)
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean suggested)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed (optional, for added protein and fiber)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium zucchini, grated
  • 1 large handful fresh spinach, chopped

For Assembly and Topping:

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salsa, to serve
  • Plain Greek yogurt (Fage 0% fat for a lighter option), to serve
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (Tillamook brand recommended)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Pierce each sweet potato multiple times with a fork. You can microwave them individually for about 3 minutes on each side until soft, adjusting time based on your microwave. Alternatively, bake at 425ºF in a foil-lined baking sheet for 45 to 50 minutes until tender. Let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling: Once cool, slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise and gently scoop out the flesh into a bowl, keeping skins intact. Mash the flesh gently with a fork and mix in 1 tsp avocado oil and 1/3 tsp ground cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Cook the Turkey Mixture: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add ground turkey and brown thoroughly. Stir in ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, grated zucchini, and chopped spinach. Cook until heated through and well combined.
  4. Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes: Arrange sweet potato skins on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute the mashed sweet potato mixture into the skins. Spoon the turkey mixture generously on top of each filled potato. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over each.
  5. Broil and Serve: Place the assembled stuffed sweet potatoes under the oven broiler for 6 to 8 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned. Remove from oven, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve with salsa and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Notes

  • Microwaving sweet potatoes is a quick alternative to baking but baking yields a deeper roasted flavor and softer texture.
  • Black beans, corn, and spinach are optional but add excellent nutrition and texture contrasts.
  • You can substitute the turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
  • Adjust spiciness by varying chili powder to your taste.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit cheese and use a non-dairy yogurt topping.
  • Stored leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: stuffed sweet potatoes, ground turkey recipe, healthy dinner, baked sweet potato, stuffed vegetable recipe, high protein meal