These roast turkey and cranberry stuffed sweet potatoes are the perfect comfort food, combining the sweet and savory flavors of roasted sweet potatoes, succulent turkey, and tart cranberry sauce. Ideal for using up leftover turkey, this dish is both healthy and satisfying. Fresh herbs like sage and rosemary add a fragrant, earthy touch, while the option of melted cheese on top gives it an extra indulgent kick. Whether you’re preparing a post-holiday meal or just looking for a hearty, fall-inspired dinner, this recipe hits the mark for flavor and simplicity.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes 🍠
- 1 cup cooked roast turkey, shredded or diced 🦃
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (preferably homemade or low-sugar) 🍇
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage 🌿
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary 🌱
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for topping) 🧀
Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat and Bake Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
2️⃣ Sauté Onion:
While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3️⃣ Prepare Filling:
Stir the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, fresh sage, and rosemary into the skillet with the onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Stuff the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice each potato open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
5️⃣ Add the Filling:
Spoon the turkey and cranberry mixture into the center of each sweet potato. If desired, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy finish.
6️⃣ Final Bake:
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
7️⃣ Serve:
Remove from the oven and serve warm. These stuffed sweet potatoes pair perfectly with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
Calories per Serving:
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Tips:
- Customize the cheese: For a more intense flavor, try using sharp cheddar or Gruyère as a topping.
- Make it healthier: Opt for low-fat cheese or skip it altogether to cut calories.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is easy to make ahead—simply store stuffed sweet potatoes in the fridge and reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
Benefits:
- High in fiber: Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, making this dish great for digestion.
- Nutrient-packed: With ingredients like turkey, sweet potatoes, and cranberries, this dish is full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Great for leftovers: This recipe helps you make the most of holiday turkey, reducing food waste.
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked chicken works perfectly as a substitute for turkey in this recipe.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the filling ahead of time, then stuff the potatoes and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
3. What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Chopped walnuts or pecans, a dollop of sour cream, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze would pair well with the flavors.
4. Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, canned cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied) works well, though homemade or low-sugar cranberry sauce will give you the best balance of flavors.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion:
Roast turkey and cranberry stuffed sweet potatoes are a delicious way to enjoy hearty flavors in a nutritious package. This recipe is a fantastic use of leftover turkey and offers a balanced combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with the addition of cranberry sauce. Easy to prepare and customizable to your preferences, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table, whether during the holidays or as a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy the satisfying combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
