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; 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 1/4 cup canned crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup grated pepper Jack cheese; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin (divided); 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley; For Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: July 25, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic nights when you need dinner fast.
Packed with Flavor: Each bite is bursting with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic for a satisfying taste experience.
Healthy Choice: With only 226 calories per serving, Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the toppings or spices to suit your family’s preferences, making it a flexible recipe.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make several batches ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet
Baking sheet
Fork
Medium-sized bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet: This tool prevents the turkey from sticking during cooking, ensuring an easy cleanup.
Baking sheet: A must-have for broiling the stuffed potatoes evenly and achieving that perfect melted cheese topping.

Ingredients

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
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
1/4 cup grated pepper Jack cheese
2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley

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 them in the microwave on HIGH until tender when pierced with a fork, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Let them rest until cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Skins

Cut the cooked sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a medium-sized bowl while reserving the skins. Use the back of a fork to mash the potato flesh until mostly smooth. Stir in olive oil, ½ teaspoon of cumin, and seasonings: ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Divide this mixture evenly among the reserved potato skins and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Mixture

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

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

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

Enjoy your delicious Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes!

How to Serve Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a twist, here are some great serving suggestions.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado provides healthy fats and a smooth texture.
Salsa: Fresh salsa brings a zesty kick that complements the turkey filling.

Add Extra Cheese

Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a rich, tangy taste.

Include Crunchy Toppings

Chopped Jalapeños: For those who love heat, fresh jalapeños add both spice and crunch.
Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips give a nice crunch and enhance the taco experience.

How to Perfect Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking and better stuffing capacity.
Don’t Overcook Turkey: Cook the turkey until it’s just done to keep it moist and flavorful.
Season Well: Adjust spices according to your taste preferences for maximum flavor.
Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to prevent burning; it only takes about 30 seconds.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh herbs and vegetables for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish well.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features grilled corn, lime, and cotija cheese, making it a perfect match.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with cilantro and lime adds a bright flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado provides a hearty side.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only tastes great but also enhances the flavors of the stuffed sweet potatoes.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables offer a colorful addition that’s healthy and delicious.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette helps to cleanse the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the sweet potatoes: Microwaving for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the turkey mixture can lead to blandness. Use the full range of spices and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Ignoring the mashing process: Not mashing the sweet potato flesh well can leave lumps in your filling. Ensure it’s smooth for a better texture when stuffed.
Skipping the broiling step: Skipping the broiler might mean missing out on that delicious melted cheese topping. Broil for just 30 seconds for that perfect finish.
Using low-quality ground turkey: Choosing a fatty mix may result in greasy filling. Opt for lean turkey (93% or higher) for a healthier dish.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Wrap each stuffed potato individually in plastic wrap.
Place them in an airtight freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

You can add toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa. Feel free to swap out spices or use different types of cheese!

Can I use another type of meat instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken or beef can be excellent alternatives if you prefer a different protein source.

Are Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and are perfect for quick meals throughout the week.

What should I serve with Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?

Consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are not only quick to prepare but also versatile and flavorful. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and ingredients, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Give this healthy recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will love!