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; 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 cup grated pepper Jack cheese; Canned crushed tomatoes

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20 minute meal! These Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic option when you need a quick dinner recipe. They combine the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a flavorful turkey taco filling, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just 226 calories per serving and suitable for various dietary preferences, these stuffed potatoes are as nutritious as they are delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from lean turkey and fiber from sweet potatoes, this dish is both filling and healthy.
Versatile: Customize your toppings! Add avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun presentation and tasty flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Gluten-Free: Perfect for those following a gluten-free diet without compromising on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet
Microwave-safe plate
Fork
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking while cooking the turkey and makes cleanup easy.
Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for broiling the stuffed sweet potatoes, ensuring they heat evenly.

Ingredients

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
2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley

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 the Potato Skins

Cut the potatoes 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 mashed mixture evenly between the potato skins and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Turkey Filling

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook while breaking it up with a wooden spoon until cooked through.
Stir in garlic, chili powder, remaining cumin (¾ teaspoon), oregano, paprika, and remaining salt and pepper (⅛ teaspoon).
Cook for about 1 minute before stirring in crushed tomatoes.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

Preheat your broiler.
Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato skin evenly.
Top each filled potato skin with 1 tablespoon of grated cheese.
Broil until cheese is melted, about 30 seconds.
Garnish with parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes! They’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

How to Serve Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them as a main dish or pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spices in the turkey filling.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the savory flavors.
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the dish with a burst of freshness that complements the Mexican spices.

Pair with Salsa

Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds crispness and acidity that brightens up the stuffed sweet potatoes.
Corn Salsa: A sweet corn salsa adds texture and sweetness, making each bite more interesting.

Add Crunchy Elements

Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and a fun dipping option.
Shredded Lettuce: A layer of shredded lettuce gives a nice crunch and freshness to the meal.

How to Perfect Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

To make sure your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose Evenly Sized Sweet Potatoes: Selecting sweet potatoes of similar size ensures even cooking throughout.
Don’t Overcook the Turkey: Cook ground turkey just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
Experiment with Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste; adding more chili powder can give it extra heat!
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will add more flavor compared to pre-minced options, enhancing the overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

While Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, lime, cheese, and spices. It pairs well with the flavors of taco stuffing.
Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, diced peppers, and a zesty dressing that adds protein and fiber.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies are a healthy side that adds color and flavor to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon provides a nutritious balance to the rich sweet potatoes.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only complements the flavors but also adds healthy fats to your meal.
Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make an excellent crunchy companion for this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

Skipping the microwave step: Not cooking the sweet potatoes in the microwave can lead to undercooked potatoes. Always microwave them until tender for the best texture.
Overstuffing the skins: Adding too much filling can make it hard to eat. Fill them generously but leave some room at the top for easier handling.
Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Make sure you evenly mix spices into both the turkey and sweet potato mixtures.
Not broiling long enough: If you don’t broil the stuffed potatoes long enough, the cheese won’t melt properly. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect melt.
Using cold ingredients: Cold turkey or cheese can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Wrap each stuffed potato tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes that might help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use other types of meat in Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

You can substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or even plant-based proteins. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Are Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure any additional toppings or sides are also gluten-free.

How do I customize my Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa for extra flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

These stuffed potatoes pair well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are not only quick and easy but also versatile and packed with flavor. You can customize them with various toppings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love!

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Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something quick yet satisfying. This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with a zesty turkey taco filling, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Each serving is only 226 calories, making it an excellent choice for those seeking healthy dinner options. With endless topping possibilities like avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt, these stuffed sweet potatoes allow for personal customization, ensuring they please every palate. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.