High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that’s both nutritious and downright delicious, this High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato is your new best friend in the kitchen. It brings together the natural sweetness of tender baked sweet potatoes with a savory, spiced turkey filling that’s packed with wholesome veggies and bold flavors. Each bite is a comforting hug that fuels your body with protein and essential nutrients without feeling heavy. Ready in under an hour and totally customizable, this dish effortlessly proves that healthy eating can be exciting and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart of this recipe, each adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish come alive. From the soft sweetness of the potatoes to the vibrant spices and fresh veggies, every element plays a crucial role in crafting a meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
- Sweet potatoes (4 medium-sized): The naturally sweet base that soaks up all the savory goodness.
- Ground cumin (1/3 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy flavor that ties the filling together.
- Avocado or olive oil (1 teaspoon + 1 tablespoon): For richness and to help sauté the ingredients perfectly.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
- Lean ground turkey (1 pound): The star of the filling, offering a high-protein punch and moist texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Infuses the turkey with a fragrant, savory depth.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Lends a smoky hint that makes the filling irresistible.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings an herbal note that complements the other spices.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Diced canned tomatoes (1 cup): Provides juiciness and a touch of acidity for balance.
- Grated zucchini (1 medium): Sneaks in some moisture and a mild veggie flavor.
- Chopped spinach (a large handful): Bursts of freshness and nutrients throughout the filling.
- Black beans (1 cup, rinsed and drained, optional): Adds fiber and extra protein to bulk it up.
- Corn kernels (1 cup, usually frozen, optional): Sweet crunch that plays beautifully against the spices.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated): The melty topping that finishes the dish with creamy, salty goodness.
- Green onions (2, finely sliced): Fresh zing for garnish that brightens everything.
- Salsa: Adds tang and a touch of heat when serving.
- Plain Greek yogurt: A cool, creamy dollop to balance the spices and add protein.
How to Make High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by choosing your favorite cooking method to get those sweet potatoes soft and tender. If you’re short on time, microwave them by piercing each potato and cooking one at a time for about 3 minutes per side. For a more caramelized, richer flavor, the oven method at 425ºF for 45 to 50 minutes works wonders. Either way, the key is to have the potatoes cooked through yet still holding their shape when sliced open.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them lengthwise and carefully scoop out the fluffy flesh, leaving the skins intact like little boats. Mash the potato flesh gently with olive oil and ground cumin to amp up the flavor and add a silky texture that will beautifully meld with the turkey mixture later.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Mixture
This part is where your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add the lean ground turkey, cooking until it loses its pink color and begins to brown. Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to evenly coat the meat with bold spices. Next, toss in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, zucchini, and spinach, letting everything meld together until heated through and fragrant. This vibrant filling is the protein-packed heart of your High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes
Place your sweet potato shells on a baking sheet, then spoon the mashed potato mixture back evenly into each shell. Pile the flavored turkey and veggie mixture generously over the top. To make it truly irresistible, sprinkle each potato with a good amount of shredded cheddar cheese that will melt and bubble under the heat.
Step 5: Broil and Serve
Pop the tray under your oven’s broiler for 6 to 8 minutes, watching closely as the cheese turns golden and bubbly. Once out of the oven, top the stuffed potatoes with green onions, a spoonful of salsa, and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a fresh, creamy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy every warm, comforting bite.
How to Serve High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato
Garnishes
For that extra touch of flavor and texture, chopped green onions and salsa bring brightness and zest to the dish, while plain Greek yogurt adds a cool and creamy contrast. These simple garnishes make each bite pop and balance the savory spices with fresh, tangy elements.
Side Dishes
This stuffed sweet potato shines as a hearty main, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli creates a well-rounded meal. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple cucumber and tomato salad can also add refreshing crunch alongside the warm, tender potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like mixing things up? Scoop out the filling and turn it into a warm bowl meal topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. Or serve the turkey mixture alongside wedges of roasted sweet potato for a deconstructed take. Another fun idea is using mini sweet potatoes as bite-sized appetizers for gatherings, giving you all the flavor of the High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato in a party-friendly form.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the assembled but un-broiled stuffed potatoes if possible, then broil or reheat right before eating to maintain that fresh-from-the-oven texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled stuffed sweet potatoes before broiling by tightly wrapping each in foil or placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and broil until heated through and cheesy on top.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350ºF oven for about 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated. For a quicker method, use a microwave but expect the cheese may not remain as bubbly and crispy as fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground turkey with plant-based meat crumbles or lentils for a wholesome vegetarian version that still delivers plenty of protein and hearty texture.
Is it okay to use other types of cheese?
Definitely. While cheddar melts nicely and adds sharp flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different twist.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the stuffed sweet potatoes in advance, store them in the fridge, and broil them fresh when you’re ready to serve for easy weeknight dinners.
What if I don’t have an oven broiler?
If you lack a broiler, bake the stuffed potatoes at 400ºF for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a toaster oven if available.
Are sweet potatoes really better than regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes boast more fiber, vitamins A and C, and have a lower glycemic index than regular potatoes, making them a nutritious and tasty choice for this filling meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato enough if you’re looking for a satisfying all-in-one meal that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself while staying on track with your health goals. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself making this dish again and again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make some magic happen in your kitchen!
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High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe combines tender, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes with a flavorful, spiced ground turkey mixture. Enhanced with veggies like zucchini, spinach, black beans, and corn, then topped with melted cheddar cheese, green onions, salsa, and Greek yogurt for a wholesome, satisfying meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 1/3 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon avocado or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Ground Turkey Filling
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced canned tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- A large handful of spinach, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels, usually frozen (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- Salsa, as desired
- Plain Greek yogurt, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork. For microwave method, cook each potato individually for about 3 minutes per side until soft; cooking times may vary based on microwave power. Alternatively, bake in a preheated 425ºF oven on a foil-lined baking sheet, pricked with a fork, for 45-50 minutes until tender. Let cool completely before handling.
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling: Slice cooled sweet potatoes lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh without damaging the skins. Place the flesh into a bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in avocado or olive oil and 1/3 teaspoon ground cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Turkey Mixture: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped garlic until fragrant. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes with their juice, grated zucchini, spinach, black beans, and corn. Cook, stirring, until heated through and well combined.
- Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes: Arrange sweet potato skins on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute the mashed sweet potato mixture back into the skins. Spoon the cooked turkey and vegetable mixture over the top of each potato. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously on each.
- Broil and Serve: Place the baking sheet under the oven broiler for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Remove carefully, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve immediately with salsa and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt.
Notes
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ground turkey with cooked lentils or plant-based meat substitute.
- Microwave cooking times may vary depending on wattage; check tenderness before removing.
- Optional vegetables like black beans and corn add extra fiber and nutrients.
- Use avocado oil for a milder flavor or olive oil as a heart-healthy option.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the turkey mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed sweet potato
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: ground turkey stuffed sweet potato, high protein sweet potato recipe, healthy stuffed sweet potatoes, protein rich dinner, lean turkey recipe
