Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of tacos, while making a healthier choice. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and are packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, making them a great base for the taco filling. The seasoned ground turkey is lean and high in protein, while the beans and corn add extra texture and flavor. This dish is versatile, so you can easily adjust the toppings and spice levels to your liking. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or for meal prep, Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork a few times and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the corn and black beans and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

6. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently fluff the inside with a fork.

7. Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato, filling them generously.

8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

9. Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes (for sweet potatoes)

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground turkey for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a mix of additional beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.

• Different Toppings: Top with guacamole, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for added creaminess.

• Cheese-Free: Skip the cheese for a dairy-free version or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

• Mexican Rice: Add a scoop of Mexican rice alongside the turkey filling for a heartier dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until heated through. You can also reheat the turkey filling separately on the stove if needed.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

While sweet potatoes add a nice flavor and texture, you can substitute them with regular russet potatoes if desired. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and cook the turkey filling in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and then assemble and heat them when ready to serve.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. They should feel soft to the touch.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes. Wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or chicken for the ground turkey in this recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess fat if using beef.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the turkey mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño to the turkey mixture to spice it up. You can also top it with hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I make these without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option. You can even try using a dairy-free cheese substitute or just add extra toppings like guacamole or salsa.

Can I serve this with a side dish?

This dish is filling on its own, but it pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or tortilla chips for crunch.

How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, replace the sweet potatoes with a cauliflower rice base or use zucchini boats for a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a tasty and healthy twist on traditional tacos, offering a combination of savory turkey, black beans, corn, and the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. They’re easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving them for a family dinner, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s full of bold flavors and packed with nutrition!