Name: High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs total); 1 tsp avocado oil; 1/3 tsp ground cumin; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean suggested); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 cup black beans, rinsed (optional); 1 large handful fresh spinach, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika preferred); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 medium zucchini, grated; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup frozen corn (optional); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (Tillamook brand recommended); 2 green onions, thinly sliced; Salsa, to taste; Plain Greek yogurt (such as Fage 0% fat) or sour cream, for topping

Introduction

Looking for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and flavor? This ground turkey stuffed sweet potato recipe is easy to prepare and makes a perfect dinner for any night of the week. Filled with seasoned turkey, veggies, and topped with melty cheese and Greek yogurt, these stuffed sweet potatoes are both comforting and nutritious.

The image shows four stuffed sweet potato halves arranged on white parchment paper. Each potato half is cut open lengthwise, filled with a layer of cooked ground meat mixed with green vegetable pieces, topped generously with melted golden-brown cheese that is slightly bubbly and crispy on top. The sweet potato skins are a warm orange color with a slightly wrinkled texture, contrasting with the vibrant filling. The background features a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs total)

1 tsp avocado oil

1/3 tsp ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean suggested)

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika preferred)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp chili powder

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 cup frozen corn (optional)

1 cup black beans, rinsed (optional)

1 medium zucchini, grated

1 large handful fresh spinach, chopped

2 green onions, thinly sliced

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Salsa, for serving

Plain Greek yogurt (such as Fage 0% fat), for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the sweet potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Either microwave one at a time for about 3 minutes per side until soft, or bake in a preheated 425ºF oven for 45-50 minutes until tender. Let cool.

Step 2: Slice cooled sweet potatoes lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, keeping the skins intact. Mash the flesh with olive oil and ground cumin, then set aside.

Step 3: In a large pan over medium-high heat, warm olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, grated zucchini, and spinach. Cook until heated through and well mixed.

Step 4: Arrange sweet potato skins on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute mashed sweet potato mixture back into the skins. Top each with a generous amount of the turkey mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Place under a broiler for 6-8 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven and serve hot topped with green onions, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian alternative, use crumbled firm tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP) instead of ground turkey.

Swap sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor and texture.

Use dairy-free yogurt or mashed avocado as a creamy topping instead of Greek yogurt.

Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor, but regular paprika works well too.

Add black beans and corn to boost fiber and make the filling even heartier.

FAQs

Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake or microwave the sweet potatoes earlier in the day or the day before. Just keep them refrigerated and assemble before reheating and serving.

What can I substitute if I don’t have ground turkey?

Ground chicken, lean ground beef, or plant-based crumbles all make good substitutes. Adjust cooking times as needed, especially for plant-based proteins.