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High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

4.9 from 124 reviews

This High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe combines tender, flavorful sweet potatoes with a savory mix of lean ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and spices. Enhanced with black beans and corn for extra protein and fiber, and finished with melted sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is a satisfying, nutritious meal perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 tsp avocado oil
  • 1/3 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

For the Turkey Filling:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped (freshly minced for best flavor)
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean suggested)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed (optional, for added protein and fiber)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 1 medium zucchini, grated
  • 1 large handful fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

For Assembly and Topping:

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salsa, for serving
  • Plain Greek yogurt (Fage 0% fat recommended for lighter option)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (Tillamook brand recommended)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by piercing each sweet potato multiple times with a fork. You can cook them in the microwave by cooking one at a time for about 3 minutes on each side or until soft, adjusting time based on your microwave. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 425ºF, place the sweet potatoes on a foil-lined baking sheet, prick all over with a fork, and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until tender. Let the sweet potatoes cool.
  2. Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling: Once cooled, slice each sweet potato lengthwise and gently scoop out the flesh, keeping the skins intact. Transfer the flesh into a bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in avocado oil and ground cumin along with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  3. Cook the Turkey Mixture: In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Next, add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, grated zucchini, and chopped spinach. Cook until all ingredients are heated through and flavors meld together.
  4. Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes: Place the empty sweet potato skins on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute the mashed sweet potato mixture back into each skin. Top each with a generous portion of the turkey mixture, then sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
  5. Broil and Serve: Place the assembled stuffed sweet potatoes under the oven broiler for about 6 to 8 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly browned. Remove from oven and serve hot, topped with thinly sliced green onions, a spoonful of salsa, and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and flavor.

Notes

  • Cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave reduces cooking time significantly compared to oven baking.
  • Black beans and corn are optional but add extra protein, fiber, and texture.
  • Use smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
  • Keep the sweet potato skins intact for easy stuffing and serving.
  • Plain Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute for sour cream.
  • Feel free to customize toppings with avocado slices or hot sauce for more flavor.
  • Ensure ground turkey is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165ºF for safety.

Keywords: high protein, ground turkey, stuffed sweet potato, healthy dinner, baked sweet potato, lean turkey recipe, easy weeknight meal