Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and nutritious twist on classic tacos. Packed with lean ground turkey, seasoned with Mexican spices, and served in tender roasted sweet potatoes, this meal is hearty, satisfying, and loaded with fiber, protein, and flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
sweet potatoeslean ground turkeyolive oiloniongarlicchili powdercuminpaprikasaltblack pepperdiced tomatoes (canned or fresh)black beans (optional)shredded cheddarsour cream or Greek yoguertsalsa or pico de gallocilantro (for garnish)lime wedges (optional)
directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potatoes and pierce each with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 40-50 minutes, or until tender.
While the sweet potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
Stir in minced garlic, then add ground turkey. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Season the turkey with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
Add diced tomatoes and optional black beans. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend flavors.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly. Slice open and gently mash the flesh to create space for the filling.
Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato.
Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa or pico de gallo, and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 stuffed sweet potatoes.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 50 minutesTotal time: 65 minutes
Variations
Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or beef.
Use dairy-free cheese and yogurt for a completely dairy-free version.
Add avocado slices or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Use taco seasoning instead of individual spices for convenience.
Try it with roasted bell peppers or corn for added flavor.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
Can I cook the sweet potatoes in the microwave?
Yes, pierce and microwave each for 5-8 minutes, turning halfway, until tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the turkey with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
What type of sweet potatoes work best?
Use medium-sized orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Garnet or Jewel for the best texture and flavor.
Can I meal prep these?
Yes, prepare and store the components separately or assembled for easy grab-and-go meals.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes individually and reheat in the microwave or oven when needed.
Can I use ground beef?
Absolutely, just drain any excess fat after cooking.
What toppings work well?
Avocado, hot sauce, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime are all excellent.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for sour cream?
Yes, it’s a healthier alternative with added protein and similar tanginess.
Are these spicy?
They have a mild kick; adjust the spice level by adding cayenne or hot sauce.
Conclusion
Healthy Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes combine the bold flavors of tacos with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. They’re easy to customize, packed with nutrients, and perfect for busy weeknights or nutritious meal prep. Give this dish a try and enjoy a guilt-free taco night favorite!
Print
Healthy Turkey Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Pan‑frying
- Cuisine: Mexican‑inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Sweet potatoes baked and stuffed with seasoned turkey and fresh toppings for a healthy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes or salsa
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: Greek yogurt or light sour cream, shredded low‑fat cheese, avocado slices, lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 45–60 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart. Cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Once sweet potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato.
- Top with cilantro and any optional toppings like Greek yogurt, cheese, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Swap ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- Make ahead: prepare turkey filling and store separately; bake potatoes fresh.
- Add a kick with chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Hearty and gluten‑free when using corn instead of flour tortillas.
- Double batch for meal prep; stores well in fridge for up to 4 days.