Roast Turkey And Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Zesty Roast Turkey And Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Cooking a delectable roast turkey and cranberry stuffed sweet potatoes recipe brings comfort and joy to any gathering.

Warm spices blend beautifully with tender meat and smooth potato interiors.

Festive flavors dance across your palate, creating memories of cozy meals.

Each bite tells a story of culinary creativity and seasonal celebration.

Bright cranberries add a tangy surprise that complements the rich turkey perfectly.

Mediterranean herbs and aromatic seasonings elevate this dish from simple to spectacular.

Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Turkey and Cranberry Delight

  • Effortless Holiday Comfort: Transforms traditional turkey leftovers into a delicious, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
  • Quick Preparation Magic: Requires minimal cooking skills with simple steps, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want a gourmet-style dish without complicated techniques.
  • Nutrition-Packed Flavor Bomb: Combines protein-rich turkey with vitamin-loaded sweet potatoes, creating a balanced meal that's both nutritious and incredibly tasty with a perfect blend of sweet and savory notes.
  • One-Dish Wonder: Simplifies mealtime by combining protein, vegetables, and seasonings in a single, easy-to-serve dish that minimizes cleanup and maximizes satisfaction for busy families or gatherings.

Turkey Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes: A hearty base that holds the delicious stuffing perfectly.

Roast Turkey: Tender and flavorful protein for the stuffing.

Cranberry Sauce: Adds a tangy and sweet burst of flavor.

Dairy and Creamy Elements:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich and smooth texture to the filling.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients.
Seasonings and Herbs:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the sweet and savory profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for balancing the overall flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish for added freshness.
Optional Topping:
  • Pecans: Crunchy addition for extra texture and nutty flavor.

Roasting Turkey and Stuffing Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Roast Sweet Potatoes

Crank up the oven to a toasty 400°F. Use a fork to poke several holes in the sweet potatoes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and slide into the oven. Roast for about 45-50 minutes until they’re super soft and can be easily pierced with a fork. Let the potatoes cool down just enough to handle safely.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Turkey Filling

Grab a big mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Shredded roast turkey
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Mix everything together until the ingredients are perfectly blended and look creamy and inviting.

Step 3: Prepare Stuffed Potato Shells

Slice the roasted sweet potatoes lengthwise. Carefully scoop out some of the soft interior, leaving a nice sturdy shell. Chop the scooped-out potato flesh and fold it into the turkey mixture. Generously spoon the delicious filling back into the potato skins.

Step 4: Final Bake

Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until they’re heated through and looking golden and delicious.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh parsley. Serve these mouthwatering stuffed sweet potatoes piping hot and enjoy the incredible flavor combination!

Sweet Potato Stuffing Tips for Turkey and Cranberry Flavor

  • Maximize Sweet Potato Tenderness: Pierce potatoes thoroughly with a fork to ensure even cooking and prevent potential bursting during roasting.
  • Choose Rich Turkey Flavor: Select leftover roasted turkey or rotisserie chicken for deeper, more developed taste profile in the stuffing mixture.
  • Balance Cream Cheese Consistency: Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing to create smoother, more evenly distributed filling.
  • Perfect Pecan Topping: Lightly toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch to the dish's texture.
  • Control Spice Levels: Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg quantities based on personal preference, starting with smaller amounts and tasting as you mix.

Save Roast Turkey Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Right

  • Store leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual stuffed sweet potatoes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Place sweet potato on microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stopping halfway to stir filling. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover sweet potatoes with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Optional: sprinkle extra pecans on top before reheating for added crunch.

Turkey Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Pairing Ideas

  • Boost Flavor with Perfect Pairings
  • Uncork Spiced White Wine: Select a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer that complements the turkey's richness and sweet potato's warmth, balancing the cranberry's tartness with smooth, fruity notes.
  • Create Crisp Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with apple slices, goat cheese crumbles, and light vinaigrette to provide a fresh, tangy contrast against the stuffed sweet potatoes' creamy, hearty profile.
  • Blend Herbaceous Side Dish: Prepare roasted Brussels sprouts with rosemary and garlic, offering a savory, slightly bitter element that cuts through the dish's sweetness and adds nutritional depth.
  • Match Sparkling Cranberry Mocktail: Mix cranberry juice, sparkling water, and fresh orange zest for a non-alcoholic beverage that echoes the cranberry in the recipe while providing a refreshing, palate-cleansing finish.

Stuffed Sweet Potato Turkey Combos

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace roast turkey with crumbled firm tofu or black beans, using nutritional yeast for savory flavor and maintaining protein content.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking cranberry sauce and cream cheese labels for potential gluten contamination.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap sweet potatoes with roasted bell peppers or zucchini boats, using same turkey and cranberry filling for a lighter meal option.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese with mashed avocado or dairy-free cream cheese alternative, using olive oil instead of butter for moisture and richness.

FAQs

  • Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for using leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or holiday meals. Shred the turkey meat and mix it with the other ingredients for a delicious second-day meal.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cranberry sauce and check that your turkey is not prepared with gluten-containing ingredients. Always verify ingredient labels if you have dietary restrictions.

  • How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add extra protein by mixing in Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, or incorporating chopped cooked chicken or additional turkey meat into the filling. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added protein.

  • Can I prepare these stuffed sweet potatoes in advance?

You can partially prepare the dish by roasting sweet potatoes and making the filling ahead of time. Store components separately in the refrigerator and assemble and final bake just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

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Roast Turkey And Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Roast Turkey And Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Roast turkey and cranberry stuffed sweet potatoes bring festive comfort to holiday tables with rustic charm. Succulent turkey, tangy cranberries, and creamy sweet potatoes create a harmonious blend you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1.5 cups cooked roast turkey, shredded
  • 0.5 cup cranberry sauce

Dairy and Nuts:

  • 0.25 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
  • 0.25 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Seasonings and Garnish:

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and use a fork to create multiple punctures in the sweet potatoes, ensuring even heat distribution during roasting.
  2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes until they become tender and easily pierced with a fork. Allow them to cool slightly for comfortable handling.
  3. Shred the roast turkey into small, uniform pieces and transfer to a large mixing bowl for preparing the filling.
  4. Add cranberry sauce, cream cheese, melted butter, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the turkey. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well integrated and create a cohesive filling.
  5. Carefully slice the roasted sweet potatoes lengthwise, creating two equal halves.
  6. Gently scoop out a portion of the sweet potato flesh, creating a hollow space for stuffing. Incorporate the removed flesh into the turkey mixture and blend completely.
  7. Generously spoon the turkey and sweet potato mixture back into the potato skins, ensuring a full and even distribution.
  8. Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, allowing the filling to heat through and develop enhanced flavors.
  9. Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped pecans and freshly chopped parsley for added texture and visual appeal.
  10. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the optimal blend of flavors and textures.

Notes

  • Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes with uniform shapes to ensure even cooking and easier stuffing.
  • Roast sweet potatoes ahead of time and let them cool completely for easier handling and better texture.
  • Test potato doneness by inserting a fork easily into the center without resistance.
  • Mix filling ingredients thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly and create a creamy consistency.
  • For gluten-free option, verify cranberry sauce does not contain wheat-based additives.
  • Swap turkey with rotisserie chicken or plant-based protein for alternative dietary needs.
  • Adding extra herbs like thyme or sage can enhance the savory flavor profile.
  • Keep leftover stuffed sweet potatoes in an airtight container and reheat in oven to maintain crispness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Marcus Hale

Marcus Hale

Founder & Recipe Storyteller

Expertise

  • Demystifying knife work, sauce emulsification, and pastry basics.
  • Curating seasonal guides that adapt global recipes to local, in-season produce.
  • Crafting blog posts, videos, and social media tips.

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on global cuisine training emphasizes sustainable cooking and recipe development under accredited chefs.

Marcus grew up surrounded by maple trees, farm stands, and the smell of Sunday stew simmering on the stove. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from the HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he knew he didn’t want to work in fancy kitchens, he wanted to cook for real people.

At Whip Up Cook Up, Marcus is the guy turning memories into meals. His recipes are fast, full of flavor, and built for home cooks who want big taste without the drama.

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