Directions to follow
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender. Once cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded roast turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Scoop and fill the sweet potatoes. Slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise and gently scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a small border around the edges. Add this sweet potato flesh to your turkey and cranberry mixture, then stir to incorporate. Spoon the delicious filling back into the sweet potato skins.
Bake again. Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the filling is heated through.
Garnish and serve. Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh parsley before serving hot.
Best ways to enjoy it
These stuffed sweet potatoes offer a beautifully impressive presentation. For serving, consider pairing them with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic dressing or alongside roasted Brussels sprouts to add a pop of color and texture. They also complement a variety of sauces, such as a tangy yogurt sauce or a drizzling of maple syrup for an extra hint of sweetness.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed sweet potatoes wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
Choose the right sweet potatoes. For the best flavor, select medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes.
Mix it up! Feel free to experiment with spices—cumin or smoked paprika can bring an additional flavor dimension.
Make it creamy. If you prefer a rich texture, add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese or even some shredded cheese into the filling.
Creative twists
If you want to explore a different flavor palette, consider swapping butter for olive oil and using feta cheese in place of cream cheese for a Mediterranean flair. You can also incorporate other vegetables like spinach or kale into the filling for added nutrients. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes. Baking the sweet potatoes takes longer, so plan for a total cook time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Can I use leftover turkey from another meal?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic way to utilize any leftover turkey, whether from Thanksgiving or a regular roast.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can replace the turkey with black beans or chickpeas for a protein-rich vegetarian option while still enjoying the sweet potato and cranberry combination.
Creating Roast Turkey and Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes not only elevates your leftovers but also makes for an appealing meal any time of the year. Try it, and I’m sure it will become a cherished recipe in your home!
