Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Name: Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium sized russet potatoes; Olive oil; Kosher salt; Fresh ground pepper; 1 tablespoon salted butter; 1 medium onion diced (about 1 cup); 1 medium jalapeno pepper diced; 1 pound lean ground turkey; ⅔ cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (more to taste); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 scallions thinly sliced; Sour cream

Author: Lora

Published: October 24, 2025

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Introduction to Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Hey guys, foodies on the run if you’re anything close to me trying to pull off life and make something good in the middle of it, you’re totally going to love these Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes. A total fusion of two comfort food classics, it combines rich and tangy Sloppy Joe stuffing and light and fluffy baked potatoes- ideal for that perfect comfort dinner. Seriously, there’s absolutely nothing better than coming home after a long day to a hot, fulfilling dinner that brings smiles to everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

These Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes tick all the boxes for a busy lifestyle. First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking a breeze. Second, the combination of flavors is downright irresistible; the savory turkey pairs perfectly with the fluffy potato. Plus, they’re a hit with the kids, which means fewer complaints at the dinner table—now that’s a win! You’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!

Ingredients for Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

To create these mouthwatering Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what you’ll gather:

Medium-sized russet potatoes: These starchy beauties are perfect for baking. They have a fluffy texture that serves as a great base for your Sloppy Joe mixture.
Olive oil: A drizzle of this golden liquid helps season the potatoes, ensuring they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper: Essential for flavor, these seasonings enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Salted butter: Adding richness, this tiny amount of butter elevates the flavor of the turkey mix.
Diced onion: Sweet and savory, diced onions sauté beautifully, adding aromatic deliciousness to the turkey.
Diced jalapeno pepper: For a kick of heat! Feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
Lean ground turkey: A healthier alternative to traditional ground beef, turkey is lean yet full of flavor.
Ketchup: This iconic condiment forms the base of the Sloppy Joe sauce, contributing sweetness and tang.
Light brown sugar: Just a hint adds a comforting sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
Apple cider vinegar: This brightens the flavor profile, providing a hint of acidity.
Worcestershire sauce: A classic umami bomb, it deepens the savory notes in your filling.
Hot sauce: Spice it up! Add more or less according to your preference for heat.
Dijon mustard: A splash adds depth and a twist of sharpness to the mixture.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The crowning glory! Melty cheese on top brings everything together in cheesy goodness.
Sliced scallions: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor finish.
Sour cream: A dollop on top adds a creamy tang that’s simply divine.

For exact measurements, you can check the bottom of the article, where I’ve made it easy for you to print your shopping list!

How to Make Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Potatoes

Let’s get your kitchen smelling heavenly! Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. While that’s heating up, grab your russet potatoes. Give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt. Once they’re clean, pierce each potato several times with a sharp knife. This helps steam escape while baking. Next, rub the potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil to ensure they don’t dry out. Generously sprinkle them with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. This early seasoning really amps up the flavor of your Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes!

Bake the Potatoes

Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the oven rack, almost like they’re comfy on their little beds! Bake them for about 30 minutes. After that, flip them and return them to cook for another 20 to 30 minutes. You want the potatoes to be fork-tender. A sharp knife should easily pierce through their fluffy goodness. Once they’re perfect, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool just enough to handle. They’ll be puffed up and ready for a hearty filling!

Sauté the Vegetables

While your potatoes are happily baking, let’s turn our attention to the filling for those Turkey Sloppy Joes. Grab a large sauté pan and place it over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of salted butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, toss in your diced onion and jalapeno. Sauté these for about 6 to 8 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent any sticking. The heat will bring out the natural sweetness in the onion while giving the jalapeno that beautiful tender-crisp texture. You’re on your way to building amazing flavors!

Cook the Turkey Mixture

Now it’s time for the star of the show—our lean ground turkey! Add it to your sauté pan, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir it around until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked through, it’s time to add in the secrets of Sloppy Joe sauce. Pour in the ketchup, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything together and allow it to bubble gently for about 5 minutes. This is where your Turkey Sloppy Joe filling starts to shine!

Assemble the Baked Potatoes

With your filling done, let’s focus on the baked potatoes. Carefully slice each potato open down the center, taking care not to cut all the way through. Using a fork, fluff the insides to make plenty of room for the Turkey Sloppy Joe mixture. Now, divide the turkey mixture evenly among the potatoes, loading them up generously. It’s like a savory little feast on a fluffy cloud. Don’t skimp on this part—your taste buds will thank you later!

Melt the Cheese

To finish off these beauties, let’s sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the filled potatoes. You can’t go wrong with melty cheese! Place the loaded potatoes back on a baking sheet and return them to the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbling. The aroma filling your kitchen is just divine, and your Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes are almost ready to serve!

Tips for Success

Use a potato peeler for even baking; the skin can help retain moisture.
Double the filling; it also makes a great dip for chips!
For a vegetarian alternative, substitute turkey with lentils or black beans.
Mix in other veggies like bell peppers or corn for added texture.
Let the potatoes cool slightly before slicing to avoid burns.

Equipment Needed

Oven: Essential for baking those fluffy potatoes.
Baking sheet: Great for easy cleanup after melting your cheese.
Sauté pan: A non-stick option makes cooking the turkey a breeze!
Sharp knife: For piercing and slicing the potatoes safely.
Fork: To fluff and serve the perfect potato!

Variations of Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Spicy Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to your turkey mixture for a zesty twist.
BBQ Chicken Version: Swap out turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken and mix in your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Use crumbled tempeh or lentils instead of turkey for a plant-based option that’s still filling.
Cheesy Taco Potatoes: Top with seasoned beef or turkey, then add salsa, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cheese.
Italian Inspired: Substitute the Sloppy Joe filling for a rich marinara sauce with Italian sausage and bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions for Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serve with crispy baked sweet potato fries for added sweetness.
Try a light coleslaw on the side for some tang and texture.
For drinks, consider a chilled iced tea or lemonade.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a delightful presentation!

FAQs about Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes

Can I make these Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the filling earlier in the day or even the night before. Just store it in the fridge and heat it up when you’re ready to assemble the potatoes. That way, a comforting meal can be ready in a flash!

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

If you don’t have turkey on hand, no problem! You can swap it for ground beef or chicken. For a meatless option, think lentils or black beans. They’ll still fit beautifully in this hearty dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For some extra heat, increase the amount of diced jalapeno or add hotter varieties like serrano pepper. You can also kick it up with a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Of course! Simply check that your ketchup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. Most brands have options, so you can enjoy these Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes without worry!

How should I store leftovers?

To keep your Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready for round two!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving those Turkey Sloppy Joe Baked Potatoes after a long, hectic day. They not only bring smiles to my family but also serve as a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness. The fluffy potatoes filled with zesty turkey and melty cheese create a delightful harmony in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this recipe checks all the boxes for comfort, warmth, and taste. Just like a hug on a plate, these potatoes make every meal feel special, and I can’t wait for you to share this joy with your loved ones!