Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Stuffed sweet potatoes are a perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating. When combined with flavorful turkey taco filling, these vibrant and nutrient-packed sweet potatoes become an irresistible meal. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Here’s everything you need to create delicious Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Wholesome: Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness.
2. Flavor Explosion: Taco-seasoned turkey filling creates a bold and spicy flavor profile.
3. Quick and Easy: Simple steps make this recipe a breeze to prepare.
4. Customizable: Adapt the toppings and filling to your taste preferences.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and Prep Sweet Potatoes
   • Scrub the sweet potatoes under running water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
   • Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
3. Season and Bake
   • Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until they’re tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Taco Filling

1. Cook the Ground Turkey
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
2. Sauté Vegetables
   • Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Add Seasonings and Sauce
   • Stir in minced garlic, taco seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.
   • Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Adjust Seasonings
   • Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

1. Slice and Fluff Sweet Potatoes
   • Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice each potato lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through. Use a fork to fluff the insides.
2. Fill the Sweet Potatoes
   • Spoon a generous amount of turkey taco filling into each sweet potato.
3. Add Toppings
   • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt slightly.
   • Top with Greek yogurt or sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes warm, with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version

• Substitute the ground turkey with black beans, pinto beans, or crumbled tofu.

2. Low-Carb Option

• Swap sweet potatoes with roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini boats.

3. Spicy Twist

• Add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the turkey filling.

4. Mexican-Inspired

• Add corn kernels, black beans, or cooked quinoa to the taco filling for extra texture.

Tips for Success

1. Even Cooking
   • Choose sweet potatoes of similar size to ensure even baking.
2. Short on Time?
   • Microwave the sweet potatoes instead of baking them. Pierce the potatoes and microwave on high for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Meal Prep Friendly
   • Prepare the taco filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Customize Toppings
   • Use your favorite taco toppings, such as pickled jalapeños, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with one or more of these sides for a complete meal:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the rich flavors.
• Rice and Beans: Serve with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a heartier meal.
• Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole are a great addition.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, until warmed through.

Freezing

• Freeze the taco filling separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

A: Yes! Ground beef, chicken, or even pork can be used as a substitute for turkey.

Q: Are sweet potatoes better than regular potatoes?

A: Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich option with more fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness, but regular potatoes can also be used if preferred.

Q: How do I keep the filling from being too watery?

A: Drain the canned tomatoes thoroughly and allow the filling to simmer until thickened.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tender, naturally sweet potatoes and savory, spiced turkey taco filling creates a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures. Topped with creamy avocado, tangy yogurt, and fresh herbs, these stuffed sweet potatoes are a wholesome, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the explosion of flavors in this easy-to-make and crowd-pleasing recipe!

Yield: 4

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Print

Stuffed sweet potatoes are a perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating. When combined with flavorful turkey taco filling, these vibrant and nutrient-packed sweet potatoes become an irresistible meal. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Here's everything you need to create delicious Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Sweet Potatoes:
• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• For the Turkey Taco Filling:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ½ cup water
• For Toppings:
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 avocado, diced
• ½ cup salsa
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
   Wash and dry the sweet potatoes, then prick them several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
   Place the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes or until fork-tender.
   
2. Cook the Turkey Taco Filling:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
   Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no longer pink. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
   Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the turkey, then add tomato sauce and water. Stir to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
   
3. Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:
   Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice them open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
   Spoon the turkey taco filling generously into each sweet potato.
   
4. Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle shredded cheese over the taco filling while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt slightly.
   Add dollops of Greek yogurt or sour cream, diced avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro.
   
5. Serve:
   Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for added zest.

Notes

• Meal Prep: Bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the turkey filling in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble and reheat before serving.
• Low Carb Option: Use roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini boats instead of sweet potatoes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice by choosing a mild or spicy taco seasoning and salsa.
• Cheese Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.