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Thanksgiving Potato Skins with Turkey and Stuffing

Thanksgiving Potato Skins with Turkey and Stuffing

Thanksgiving Potato Skins with Turkey and Stuffing combine classic holiday flavors into crispy potato shells filled with savory turkey, traditional stuffing, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for sharing at parties, customizable to dietary preferences, and a great way to use holiday leftovers while delivering a festive, comforting bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 large russet baking potatoes

Filling

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup traditional stuffing (bread, herbs, aromatics)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary; optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup scooped potato flesh from baked potatoes

For Crisping and Garnish

  • 3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each a few times with a fork and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until tender. Allow to cool slightly, then slice in half and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato inside the skins to keep them sturdy.
  2. Crisp the Skins: Brush the hollowed potato skins with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place skin-side down on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
  3. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped potato flesh, shredded turkey, stuffing, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper, and add finely chopped herbs if desired. Mix gently until well combined.
  4. Fill and Bake: Spoon the turkey and stuffing mixture evenly into each potato skin. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired for a creamy, tangy contrast.

Notes

  • Use russet potatoes for the best crispy skins that hold the filling well.
  • Season the scooped potato flesh to enhance overall flavor.
  • Leftover cooked turkey works perfectly to add hearty flavor and reduce waste.
  • Distribute the filling evenly to ensure balanced bites.
  • Bake at high temperatures for crispiness in the final steps.
  • Let baked potatoes cool slightly before scooping to avoid burns and make handling easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thanksgiving appetizer, potato skins, turkey leftovers, stuffing recipe, holiday snacks, party finger food, comfort food, baked potatoes