Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Name: Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes; 3/4 pound lean ground turkey (93% fat-free); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 cup grated pepper Jack cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: July 21, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground turkey and sweet potatoes, it’s nutritious without sacrificing taste.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of spices gives this dish a vibrant Mexican flavor.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside salads or sides.
Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes used means less time spent on cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools handy is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet
Microwave-safe plate
Baking sheet
Fork
Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet: Prevents the turkey from sticking and makes for easy cooking.
Microwave-safe plate: Allows for quick cooking of sweet potatoes without using an oven.
Baking sheet: Ideal for broiling the stuffed sweet potatoes evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these tasty Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:

For the Sweet Potatoes

2 medium sweet potatoes
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin (divided)
1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper

For the Turkey Filling

3/4 pound lean (93%) ground turkey
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/4 cup canned crushed tomatoes

For Topping

1/4 cup grated pepper Jack cheese

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork. Cook in the microwave on HIGH until tender when pierced with a fork, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Let the potatoes rest until cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Prepare Potato Skins

Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a medium-sized bowl, reserving the skins. Mash the potato flesh with a fork until mostly smooth. Stir in olive oil, ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Divide the mixture evenly back into the potato skins and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Filling

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, lightly coat with cooking spray. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until fully cooked. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, remaining cumin, oregano, paprika, and remaining salt and pepper. Cook for an additional minute before adding crushed tomatoes.

Step 4: Broil and Serve

Preheat your broiler. Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato skin. Top each filled skin with about one tablespoon of grated cheese. Broil until melted, about 30 seconds. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes!

How to Serve Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that complement the flavors of this delicious meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

Avocado slices – Add creamy avocado for richness and healthy fats.
Chopped cilantro – Sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Pair with Salsas

Pico de gallo – This fresh salsa adds crunch and vibrant flavors.
Mango salsa – For a sweet twist, mango salsa pairs excellently with the savory turkey.

Serve with a Salad

Mixed greens salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can add freshness to your meal.
Corn salad – A corn salad complements the stuffing’s flavors and adds texture.

How to Perfect Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, consider these helpful tips for preparation and cooking.

Use fresh sweet potatoes – Select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for optimal taste and texture.
Don’t overcook the turkey – Cook until just done to keep it juicy; it will continue cooking slightly after removing from heat.
Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go; feel free to add more spices or salt according to your preference.
Experiment with toppings – Try different cheeses or hot sauces to customize each serving to your liking.
Make ahead – Prepare the turkey mixture in advance for quick meal prep during busy weeknights.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Complement your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with these delightful side dishes that round out the meal perfectly.

Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and cilantro; great chilled or at room temperature.
Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn topped with lime, cheese, and chili powder offers a flavorful side option.
Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and fresh cilantro enhances any Mexican-inspired dish.
Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips creates a fun appetizer or side.
Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal vegetables and roast them for a healthy side packed with flavor.
Quinoa Salad – A protein-rich quinoa salad mixed with veggies makes an excellent complement to the stuffed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Using the wrong type of sweet potatoes: Not all sweet potatoes are created equal. Be sure to use medium-sized ones for even cooking and better flavor.
Overcooking the sweet potatoes: Cooking them too long can lead to mushy skins. Microwave them just until tender, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season both the turkey and the sweet potato can result in bland flavors. Make sure to incorporate spices and salt at every stage.
Not letting the turkey mixture cool: If you fill the potato skins with hot turkey filling, the skins may become soggy. Allow it to cool slightly before assembly.
Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes like parsley add freshness and color. Don’t skip this step for a more appealing dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use glass or plastic containers that seal tightly to keep moisture in.

Freezing Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Containers: Wrap each stuffed sweet potato in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even warming.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it separately from the sweet potatoes. This makes assembly quick when you’re ready to eat!

How do I customize Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, or salsa to enhance flavors and textures.

Are Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes healthy?

Absolutely! They are low in calories and packed with protein, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.

What can I serve with Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

These stuffed sweet potatoes pair well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes offer a delicious combination of flavors and nutrients while being incredibly easy to prepare. Their versatility allows for endless customization options, so feel free to play with toppings and spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights!

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