Name: High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes; 1/3 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon avocado or olive oil; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup diced canned tomatoes (with their juice); 1 medium zucchini, grated; A large handful of spinach, chopped; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional); 1 cup corn kernels, usually frozen (optional); 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated; 2 green onions, finely sliced; Salsa, to taste; Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, to serve

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with comforting flavors, look no further than this vibrant High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato. It’s a harmonious blend of tender sweet potatoes filled with a savory, spiced ground turkey mixture that’s packed with protein and fresh veggies. This dish is an absolute weeknight hero—wholesome, filling, and easy to make, perfect for refueling after a busy day or impressing friends with a wholesome dinner that tastes like a treat.

High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients, each carefully chosen to build a balance of hearty texture, bright flavor, and appealing color. From those naturally sweet and creamy sweet potatoes to the aromatic spices and hearty turkey filling, these essentials come together beautifully.

Sweet potatoes (4 medium-sized): The base of this dish, naturally sweet and creamy when cooked, providing delicious contrast to the savory filling.
Ground turkey (1 pound, lean): A high-protein meat option that’s light yet flavorful, acting as the main protein-packed filling.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons total): Adds necessary moisture and helps in cooking the turkey and spices evenly.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Infuses the filling with a punch of aromatic deliciousness that pairs perfectly with the turkey.
Ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder: A spice quartet that transforms the turkey into a fragrant, deeply flavorful mixture.
Diced canned tomatoes (1 cup with juice): Adds moisture, a slight tang, and richness to the filling.
Zucchini (1 medium, grated): Sneaks in fresh veggies while keeping the texture moist and light.
Spinach (large handful, chopped): Boosts the nutritional value with a pop of green and subtle earthiness.
Black beans (1 cup, rinsed and drained, optional): For added fiber and protein, making the dish even heartier.
Corn kernels (1 cup, usually frozen, optional): Provides a slight sweetness and satisfying bite that plays well with the savory elements.
Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts on top for a luscious finish full of creamy, gooey goodness.
Green onions (2, finely sliced): For a fresh, mild onion crunch as a garnish.
Salsa and plain Greek yogurt: Perfect finishing touches that add tang, creaminess, and zing.
Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning every component just right.

How to Make High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start with the star of the show: the sweet potato. Whether you prefer the speed of the microwave or the caramelized depth from the oven, getting these tender is the first step. Don’t forget to pierce them all over with a fork so steam can escape while cooking. Once soft and slightly cooled, they’re ready to be hollowed out and transformed.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling

Carefully slice each sweet potato down the middle and scoop out the inside while keeping the skins perfectly intact—you’ll be filling these soon! Mash the scooped potato flesh gently with olive oil and a pinch of cumin, which brings out a warm, earthy note that complements the filling deliciously.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large pan and add the finely chopped garlic until fragrant. Then, add your ground turkey and cook it until it’s nice and browned. Time to spice things up—sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper and stir well so every bite is brimming with flavor. Toss in the diced tomatoes with juice, black beans, corn, zucchini, and spinach, and cook until everything melds together beautifully and is heated through.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes

Lay your emptied sweet potato skins on a baking sheet and evenly spoon in the mashed sweet potato mixture. Top generously with the flavorful turkey blend, then sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar on each to provide that irresistible cheesy crust once baked.

Step 5: Broil and Serve

Pop the baking sheet under the oven broiler for 6 to 8 minutes, watching closely for the cheese to melt and brown perfectly. Serve hot with a sprinkle of green onions, a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa for that extra burst of freshness and creaminess that ties the dish all together.

How to Serve High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnish elevates your stuffed sweet potatoes in both flavor and appearance. The crisp bite of green onions, bright and tangy salsa, plus a cooling dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream create layers of refreshing contrast that perfectly balance the hearty filling.

Side Dishes

This High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato is a filling dish on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli. These sides offer a crunchy, fresh bite that complements the warm, rich flavors beautifully without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Slice your stuffed sweet potatoes into halves or quarters for bite-sized, individual servings perfect for sharing at parties. Or, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds for a surprising crunch. You might even serve the filling over a bed of greens for a salad twist that’s equally satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato keeps super well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container after cooling completely to maintain freshness and flavors. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat gently to keep the sweet potato moist and the turkey mixture deliciously tender.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this dish ahead for busy days, it freezes well too! Assemble the stuffed sweet potatoes without the cheese topping, wrap each individually in foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Add cheese and broil after thawing for best results.

Reheating

For reheating, remove from the fridge or freezer and heat in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes (longer from frozen). Then add cheese and broil for a few minutes to melt and brown it beautifully, bringing back that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will still give you that high-protein, flavorful filling you’re seeking.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Definitely. You can substitute the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or a mix of sautéed lentils and mushrooms for a similarly hearty texture and taste.

How spicy is this dish?

The spices provide warmth and depth rather than intense heat, but you can always adjust chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne if you prefer a little more kick.

Can I prep the filling ahead of time?

Yes! The turkey mixture can be cooked and refrigerated a day in advance, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have a broiler?

No worries! You can bake the assembled stuffed sweet potatoes at 375ºF for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and lightly browns.

Final Thoughts

Trying this High Protein Ground Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potato is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy hug that’s also packed with nutrition and bold flavor. It’s a recipe that feels like a special treat but comes together with such ease, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this deliciously satisfying dish—you might just discover a new favorite!