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11 Mouthwatering Sweet Potato Recipes

Torn between what sweet potato recipe to make on the big day? This delicious list gives you both mouthwatering sweet and savory sweet potato recipes to choose from.

Whether you're baking, using an air fryer, or the stove top we've got you covered. Don't break a sweat trying to get delicious dishes on the table for your family and friends. Many of these recipes you can prepare or make the day before, providing less stress on Thanksgiving Day.

Want a couple of dishes for your holiday table? Share these recipes with your family and ask that they prepare one to share. After tasting any of these tasty dishes they'll be making them for their own families and holiday gatherings.

grid of sweet potato recipes

11 Mouthwatering Sweet Potato Recipes

Dive into these delicious and memorable sweet potato dishes, they'll fill your table with warm and hearty flavors your family will love.

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

These Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are covered in delicious syrupy goodness and will melt in your mouth with each and every bite. It’s the perfect side dish for every table. 
Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect fall and Thanksgiving dessert to make and share with family and friends. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s the perfect make-ahead sweet treat!

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Purple Sweet Potato Pie

Visually stunning and just as delicious. This Purple Sweet Potato Pie is going to be a showstopper dessert this Thanksgiving.

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Southern Style Sweet Potato Casserole

Southern Style Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious dish made with creamy sweet potato filling and topped with an oat and brown sugar mixture. This dish is perfect for Sunday dinner or as a side with a beautifully roasted turkey.  

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes with Hot Honey Butter

These Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Top them with a delicious hot honey butter for the perfect side dish.
Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Jamaican Inspired Sweet Potato Pudding

This Sweet Potato Pudding is inspired by a Jamaican recipe I grew up eating. Sweet potato, coconut milk, and fragrant spices make this the perfect pudding for any occasion.
Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Nachos

These Sweet Potato and Black Bean Nachos are delicious and healthy. This delicious spin on nachos is a real treat.

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Mashed Sweet Potatoes (Sweet or Savory)

These mashed sweet potatoes are a deliciously creamy and filling side dish. Make them sweet or savory and enjoy them as part of your favorite meal. 

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Sweet Potato Bundt Cake

Topped with a cream cheese glaze, this sweet potato bundt cake is perfectly spiced and deliciously sweet. Simple to make, it’s a great addition for your Thanksgiving menu with it’s wonderful warming flavors.

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Sweet Potato Salad Recipe

This Sweet Potato Salad Recipe is a warm and comforting dish made with sweet potatoes, red onions, bacon, cranberries, feta cheese, and drizzled with a creamy honey mustard dressing. It’s ready to eat in just 25 minutes and is the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners or to serve at a party.    

Photo Credit: www.myforkinglife.com

Golden Sweet Potato Cornbread

My Sweet Potato Cornbread recipe combines a traditional cornbread recipe with some mashed sweet potato, ground cinnamon, and sweet brown sugar, for a deliciously moist and tender bread full of the flavors of Fall.

What is the healthiest way to cook sweet potatoes?

Boiling sweet potatoes for 20 minutes is the healthiest way to cook and consume sweet potatoes, as the beta-carotene contained in the sweet potato is more dense and easily absorbed.

What do sweet potatoes pair well with?

Sweet potatoes can be served and enjoyed with nearly all vegetables, fish, or other meats. Sweet potatoes like regular potatoes truly can be paired with almost anything.

Should you peel a sweet potato before cooking it?

Peeling a sweet potato is totally up to you! The peel is completely edible and tasty. Not only tasty, but they contain fiber and antioxidants.

Is it better to boil or roast sweet potatoes?

If you prefer a sweeter sweet potato I'd suggest roasting. Roasting a sweet potato helps to caramelize the sugars, making it sweeter. For a milder sweet potato, and to retain the most nutrients boiling is the way to go.

by 133 Comments

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect fall and Thanksgiving dessert to make and share with family and friends. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it's the perfect make-ahead sweet treat!

southern sweet potato pie on white plate with pie in background

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

I love the flavors of fall, lots of warming spices come into play and my thoughts always turn to delicious sweet pies. A traditional Southern sweet potato pie is one of my favorite fall desserts.

The sweet potato filling in this easy sweet potato pie is silky smooth. When it's topped with some whipped cream I'm in heaven! You can make your own pastry crust, but if pushed for time a store bought pastry crust will work just fine.

It's one of my preferred Holiday pies and lucky for me, my kids love it too. So I always end up making this pie most often around the Holidays. This has become my best sweet potato pie recipe and is enjoyed by everyone I serve it up to.

This is a great pie to serve up for Thanksgiving or Christmas along with my Simple Pumpkin Cake! However, it also makes a great weekend treat any weekend during fall, with my family and friends.

Ingredients

  • Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sweet potatoes - I prefer to use baked sweet potatoes in the skin and then peel them for this recipe, as they provide a creamier texture and richer flavor. Some have boiled sweet potatoes and had great results, but I find baking enhances the overall quality of the dish.
  • Butter - adds richness and flavor to the pie. I use unsalted butter.
  • Light brown sugar - this adds an incredible depth of flavor to this pie.
  • Large Eggs, Evaporated Milk, and Vanilla Extract
  • Spices - Ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt

How To Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mash cooked sweet potatoes in a bowl.

TOP TIP: I like to either bake my sweet potatoes in the air fryer or microwave them for 8-10 minutes. I never boil them.

The mashed sweet potatoes in a bowl

Add remaining ingredients and whisk until smooth and combined.

Whisking together the ingredients for the filling

Pour in prepared pie crust. You can see my crust broke a little, lol. It was still mighty good though.

The pie filling in the crust

Bake for 40-45 minutes until pie is set in the middle.

The baked sweet potato pie

Can you make Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time?

Yes! This is the perfect make-ahead dessert. You can make sweet potato pie ahead of time to save oven space on holidays. In fact, you want to let the pie sit for at least an hour before serving it. Once the pie has cooled to room temperature, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil, and it will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze Sweet Potato Pie?

If you are super organized and planning ahead, then you can freeze the pie. It's best to freeze the pie before you bake it or it can become soggy once thawed.

Place the filling in the crust and then wrap securely in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Defrost the pie in the fridge overnight before baking. The pie will keep well frozen for up to 3 months.

A slice of southern sweet potato pie served on a white plate

Tips for Choosing the Best Sweet Potatoes

For the perfect sweet potato pie, select firm, bruise-free sweet potatoes with smooth skin and deep orange flesh. Medium-sized potatoes work best for a rich, creamy filling.

Recipe Notes and Tips

  • Take the butter out of the fridge 30 minutes before you plan to bake. This allows the butter to soften, making it easier to incorporate into the other ingredients.
  • Sweet potato pie is best when it has cooled, so wait to serve it.
  • The best sweet potato pie is made at least a day ahead and chilled. Remove from the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Don't boil the sweet potatoes or they will take on too much liquid and the filling will be soggy.

More Easy Dessert Recipes

If you're looking for more delicious sweet potato recipes, try my candied sweet potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes recipes.

Watch this video tutorial and see how I make this sweet potato pie from start to finish.

FAQs:

What's the difference between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie?

The flavors in both of these traditional Thanksgiving pies are similar, but sweet potato pie is less dense and more light and airy. It's sweeter and more creamy and I find it much richer in flavor.

How do you know when sweet potato pie is done?

The pie is cooked when the pie filling has set and is no longer liquid. You can check but inserting a toothpick into the filling, if cooked it will come out clean.

How do I get the strings out of sweet potato pie?

Whether or not you have strings in your sweet potatoes will depend on the growing conditions of your sweet potatoes. If the soil is too fertile, you'll get stringy sweet potatoes. Try to purchase short plump sweet potatoes to avoid stringiness. If you need to get rid of strings, pulse the sweet potatoes in a food processor after baking them.

If you have tried to make this delicious Southern Sweet Potato Pie, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

sweet potato pie on a plate
Print Recipe
4.75 from 98 votes

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect fall and Thanksgiving dessert to make and share with family and friends. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it's the perfect make ahead sweet treat!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: southern sweet potato pie, sweet potato pie recipe, thanksgiving pies
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 340kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 9- inch pie crust store-bought or homemade
  • 1.5 lbs sweet potato about 2 medium sweet potatoes
  • ¼ cup butter softened
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Bake or microwave the sweet potatoes:

  • Air fryer - 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35-40 minutes.
  • Oven - 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 45-50 minutes.
  • Microwave - prick potatoes all over, microwave for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Make the pie

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Peel the sweet potatoes and mash them in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and whisk until smooth and combined. Pour in prepared pie pan.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes until pie is set in the middle. Remove and allow to cool for at least 1 hour.

Notes

  • Prepare pie crust according to your recipe or package directions.
  • Sweet Potato Pie is best when it has cooled, so wait to serve it.
  • The best sweet potato pie is made at least a day ahead and chilled. Remove from the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Don't boil the sweet potatoes or they will take on too much liquid and the filling will be soggy.

Nutrition

Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 295mg | Potassium: 398mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 12341IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 1mg

This post was originally published on 8/17/2020. It has been updated with additional helpful tips.

by 4 Comments

Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

A spatchcocked turkey roasts in less than 2 hours and has wonderfully juicy meat and crispy skin. Level up your Thanksgiving game with a beautifully presented spatchcock turkey recipe.

baked spatchcocked turkey in a serving dish

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Don't be intimidated by spatchcocking a turkey, it's easy and worth every minute. Turn the traditional Thanksgiving turkey into an even more delicious turkey with every inch covered in browned crispy skin. Cook a whole turkey in half of the time!

Serve a roast spatchcock turkey with some of my favorite Thanksgiving side dishes, Southern Green Beans, Southern Style Sweet Potato Casserole, and Soft Air Fryer Dinner Rolls. Your Thanksgiving table is sure to stand out this year and impress your guests.

If you like this turkey recipe, you'll love this air fryer spatchcock chicken recipe.

turkey slices on a plate

Ingredients Needed For Spatchcock Turkey

  • Turkey: Spatchcocked, you can do this yourself or your local butcher can do it for you. Check out my How to Spatchcock a Chicken (Video) for help spatchcocking a turkey, it's the same process just on a bigger bird.
  • Olive Oil
  • Seasonings: Kosher salt, Poultry seasoning, Garlic seasoning, and Black pepper
spatchcock turkey ingredients

Tools you'll need for this recipe:

  • Large rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Sharp kitchen shears
  • Meat cleaver
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board
  • Paring knife

How to Cook a Spatchcocked Turkey

Place turkey on a large baking sheet. Season the spatchcocked turkey with olive oil, Kosher salt, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey, including under the skin.

turkey being seasoned with season mixture

Place in the refrigerator, uncovered, for 24 hours. This is known as dry brining the turkey and results in a flavorful and juicy bird.

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to roasting. Use paper towels and blot off any excess moisture on the turkey.

Patting the chilled turkey dry with a paper towel

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Place the turkey in the oven and roast for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, reduce the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue roasting for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers at 170 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the butterflied turkey from the oven. Allow resting for 15-20 minutes before carving.

spatchcocked turkey after being oven roasted on a baking sheet

How to Spatchcock a Turkey

  • To Spatchcock a turkey, you’ll need to place the turkey breast side down with legs toward you.
  • Use sharp poultry shears and cut along the backbone to remove it. You’ll end up cutting through the rib bones. Since a turkey is a much larger bird than a chicken, this process may take extra effort. Alternatively, your local butcher may spatchcock your turkey for you upon request.
  • Slit the white cartilage that’s in the middle of the breast.
  • Turn the turkey over and use two hands to pull the breast and wings upward while pushing the middle of the breast down, until it lays flat.
  • Remove any excess fat from the turkey.

For a more detailed explanation of spatchcocking a turkey, or a chicken visit the How to Spatchcock a Chicken video.

The Benefit of a Spatchcocked Turkey

While roasting a whole turkey is also delicious, a roasted spatchcock turkey will create an evenly cooked turkey all over. Every bite of white or dark meat will be tender and perfectly juicy.

Allowing the turkey to lay flat provides a larger surface area for roasting, which cuts the cooking time down considerably.

baked spatchcocked turkey in a serving dish

Gravy Made From Turkey Drippings

Don't toss out those delicious golden pan drippings. Pour those flavorful juices into a saucepan or skillet to make tasty homemade turkey gravy. The amount of pan drippings will depend on the size of the turkey roasted.

Check out my easy guide on How to Make Gravy From Drippings.

How Long Do You Cook A Spatchcock Turkey Per Pound?

Even though you have butterflied your turkey, the cooking time will vary depending on how large your turkey is. 6-8 minutes per pound is ideal.

10-pound turkey: 60 - 80 minutes

15-pound turkey: 90-120 minutes

20-pound turkey: 120-160 minutes

You'll need an extra large baking sheet for roasting a 20-pound turkey.

Notes

  • I spatchcock a turkey the same way I spatchcock a chicken. You may need a meat cleaver to cut through large bones.
  • You can make turkey broth with the backbone removed from the turkey.
  • The turkey should be at room temperature before placing it in the oven. I like to take it out of the fridge about half an hour before I roast it.
  • Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving so that the juices redistribute.

Looking for more Turkey recipes? Try these out:

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

baked spatchcocked turkey in a serving dish
Print Recipe
5 from 3 votes

Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

A spatchcocked turkey roasts in less than 2 hours and has wonderfully juicy meat and crispy skin. Level up your Thanksgiving game with a beautifully presented spatchcocked turkey.
Prep Time1 day
Cook Time1 hour 35 minutes
Resting Time15 minutes
Total Time1 day 1 hour 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: spatchcock turkey
Servings: 12 people
Calories: 497kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 12-14 pound Turkey Spatchcocked
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil
  • 2 ½ tablespoons Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon Poultry seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Black pepper

Instructions

  • Place the spatchcocked turkey on a large baking sheet. Season the spatchcocked turkey with olive oil, Kosher salt, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey, including under the skin.
  • Place in the refrigerator, uncovered, for 24 hours.
  • Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to roasting. Use a paper towel and blot off any excess moisture on the turkey.
  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the turkey in the oven and roast for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, reduce the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue roasting for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a quick read thermometer in the thigh registers at 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Remove the turkey from the oven. Allow resting for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Video

Notes

  • I spatchcock a turkey the same way I spatchcock a chicken. You may need a meat cleaver to cut through large bones.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 497kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 70g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 232mg | Sodium: 1815mg | Potassium: 733mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 190IU | Vitamin C: 0.05mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 3mg

by 26 Comments

Grandma's Giblet Gravy Recipe

If you're trying to decide what to do with those giblets that come with a whole chicken or turkey, then make this classic giblet gravy. This old-fashioned recipe is the perfect comforting gravy to serve alongside your meal.

Giblet gravy served in a white gravy boat.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Chicken or turkey giblet gravy is a classic recipe and this one comes from Grandma Corine, my husband's grandmother. She's over 100 years old (yep, you read that right) and she still be cooking in the kitchen.

My husband would tell me stories of how she would cook this classic turkey giblet gravy and all the family would just eat it up. I'm happy that she decided to teach us how to make this old-school gravy recipe.

Even better this make-ahead giblet gravy can be cooked and frozen for up to 3 months ahead of when you need it. This is ideal during the busy holiday season when we all have so much other things to be getting on with.

Be sure to try my Drippings Gravy and Instant Pot Sausage Gravy too!

What is giblet gravy made of?

This easy homemade giblet gravy recipe starts with the pack of giblets that come in a pack inside a whole turkey or chicken. Giblets include the neck, heart, liver, and gizzard of poultry. Rather than waste these parts of the chicken, they are cooked to release flavor and turned into gravy.

A hard-boiled egg is also added to this recipe. Why? Mainly because it was all that was leftover after baking a cake and eggs shouldn't go to waste either, at least that's what I was told.

Close up of the giblet gravy on a wooden spoon.

How to make giblet gravy

Gather your ingredients.

Ingredients to make the recipe.

Heat oil in a 3-quart pan over medium heat. Add the giblets and brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the giblets and remove the pan from the heat and set aside. Chop the gizzard, heart, and liver into small pieces. Remove some of the meat from the neck bones with a fork.

browning the giblets in a pan.
Giblets cut into pieces.

Place the pan back over medium heat and add butter. Allow the butter to melt and whisk in the all-purpose flour. Continue to whisk for 1-2 minutes.

Slowly pour in 3 cups of water, continuing to whisk. Reduce the heat to low.

Add the browned giblets (neck bone included) back into the pan and continue to cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the giblet pieces are tender.

Remove the neck bone. Add the chopped hard boiled egg, salt, and pepper.

Butter added to the fats in the pan.
Flour being whisked into the pan.
Water being whisked into the pan.
Giblets being added back to the pan.
Hard boiled egg being added to the gravy.

Serve giblet gravy while hot along with the rest of the meal.

Stirring the giblet gravy with a spoon.

What is included in the giblets?

Giblets are found in turkey, chickens, and other poultry. They consist of the liver, heart, gizzard, and neck. Some turkeys and chickens will have these removed, otherwise, they will be found in the cavity of an oven-ready bird.

What do you serve it with?

This giblet gravy is perfect to serve as part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or whenever you enjoy a whole roasted chicken or turkey! Great with these recipes here:

Try it alongside these other favorite sides:

The giblet gravy being poured over mashed potatoes.

Recipe notes and tips

  • You can cook the gravy for the times indicated or you can cook longer if need be, especially if you need more time to get dinner ready. If cooking for longer, add more water by the ½ cup if you notice your gravy getting low.
  • Feel free to add fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or a bay leaf while the gravy is simmering for an additional herb taste.
  • You can use chicken broth instead of water if you prefer. We use water and enjoy it very much.
  • I use about 3 teaspoons of kosher salt and 2 teaspoons of black pepper when seasoning this gravy.

More gravy recipes

How to store make ahead giblet gravy

To refrigerate: This giblet gravy can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, and you can leave it to cook for longer on the stovetop while you are waiting to cook the recipe of the meal. Once cooked, let the gravy cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best to be used within two days, and reheat it to a boil before serving.

To freeze: This gravy freezes well, so it's a great option if you want to use up all of your turkey or chicken and not let anything go to waste. Let cool completely before freezing, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs:

Are giblets good for you?

Giblets are a high in protein and a great source of vitamins.

What can I do with giblets?

I use turkey or chicken giblets to make great tasting gravy. But you can also use them in sauces or stuffings for the bird, or to make tasty broths and stocks.

Why are giblets left in a turkey?

Giblets are left in a turkey as people like to use them to make stocks and gravy.

Can I make Grandma's giblet gravy without the egg?

Sure! But then it wouldn't be grandma's recipe 😉

This recipe has a video! Watch how I make this giblet gravy from start to finish.

If you have tried making my Grandma's giblet gravy recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Stirring the giblet gravy with a spoon.
Print Recipe
4.89 from 18 votes

Grandma's Giblet Gravy Recipe

If you're trying to decide what to do with those giblets that come with a whole chicken, then make this gravy. It's rich, so easy to make, and delicious.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: American
Keyword: easy giblet gravy, how to make gravy with giblets, old fashioned giblet gravy recipe
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 253kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • Giblets from a whole turkey or chicken (gizzard, neck, heart, and liver)
  • 2 Tablespoons canola oil
  • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups of water*
  • 1 hard boiled egg peeled and chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a 3-quart pan over medium heat. Add the giblets and brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the giblets and remove the pan from the heat and set aside. Chop the gizzard, heart, and liver into small pieces. Remove some of the meat from the neck bones with a fork.
  • Place the pan back over medium heat and add butter. Allow the butter to melt and whisk in the all-purpose flour. Continue to whisk for 1-2 minutes.
  • Slowly pour in 3 cups of water, continuing to whisk. Reduce the heat to low.
  • Add the browned giblets (neck bone included) back into the pan and continue to cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the giblet pieces are tender.
  • Remove the neck bone. Add the hard boiled egg, salt, and pepper. Serve giblet gravy while hot along with the rest of the meal.

Notes

  • You can cook the gravy for the times indicated or you can cook longer if need be, especially if you need more time to get dinner ready. If cooking for longer, add more water by the ½ cup if you notice your gravy getting low.
  • Feel free to add herbs like fresh sage, thyme, or a bay leaf while the gravy is simmering for an additional herb taste.
  • You can use chicken broth instead of water if you prefer. We use water and enjoy it very much.
  • I use about 3 teaspoons of kosher salt and 2 teaspoons of black pepper when seasoning this gravy.

Nutrition

Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 303mg | Sodium: 125mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 10202IU | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 5mg

This post was originally published October 1, 2021. It has been updated with additional helpful information.

by 6 Comments

Easy Sweet Potato Bread Recipe

Enjoy a slice of this warmly spiced, pecan-topped, moist, and tasty sweet potato bread. A delicious dessert to add to your Thanksgiving lineup.

Three slices of sweet potato bread on a plate

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Quick bread is one of the easiest types of bread to make. And with so many flavors and variations, it's easy to see why it's a favorite among so many people. This easy sweet potato bread is perfect for after-dinner dessert, or have a slice with your morning coffee for breakfast. There really isn't a wrong time to enjoy a slice.

This bread is so tender and moist with just the right amount of spice and sweetness. If you like this sweet potato bread, you'll surely love the Best Banana Bread Recipe in the World. And when I say the best, it truly is the best.

front shot of a loaf of sweet potato bread

Ingredients and Tools Needed for sweet potato quick bread

  • Dry Ingredients: All-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt.
  • Wet Ingredients: Light brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil
  • Sweet potato - pureed.

Candied Pecan Topping (Optional)

  • Light brown sugar
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Water
  • Chopped pecans
Sweet potato bread ingredients

Tools needed to make Sweet Potato Bread

  • Bread pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk & Wooden spoon
  • Saute pan
  • Aluminum foil

How to make sweet potato bread

Create topping if using and set aside. Topping instructions are below.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease an 8x4 bread pan and set aside.

In a bowl, add all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.

a bowl of flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice and salt.

In a large bowl, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and mashed sweet potato and whisk until combined.

a large bowl of brown sugar, eggs, oil and mashed sweet potato whisked together.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Pour this batter into the prepared bread pan. If using candied pecan topping, follow the instructions below.* 

dry and wet ingredients combined in a large bowl with a wooden spoon

Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick entered in the middle comes out clean.

sweet potato bread mixture in a bread pan

Topping Instructions

Add brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and water to a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture and allow the sugar to melt and start to bubble. Allow the mixture to bubble for 2 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in the pecans. Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed for 5 minutes. The pecans will harden and candy. Break it up into smaller pieces.

topping ingredients added to a saute pan

Baking with candied pecans

Place the candied pecans over the bread batter in the pan and cover lightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

topping placed ontop of bread mixture in the bread pan

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake an additional 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick entered in the middle comes out clean

Freshly baked sweet potato bread on a serving tray

How to store sweet potato bread

Sweet potato bread will last up to 1 week covered in an airtight container at room temperature.

To freeze sweet potato bread: Allow the bread to cool completely. Slicing before freezing is optional, but a good idea if you only want a portion or two at a time. Wrap the loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To thaw, simply take it from the freezer to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight. Smaller slices will thaw within hours.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! We all know baking during the holidays requires a lot of time and precious oven space. Make this recipe as directed and freeze. Take the loaf out of the freezer the night before and allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: Let the sweet potato bread come to room temperature, then heat through in the oven at 350 F for 5-10 minutes. Good as fresh!

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Canned sweet potato puree can be used interchangeably with steamed, boiled, and mashed sweet potatoes. Just make sure you don't use canned sweet potatoes or yams that are packaged in a sweet syrup.

You can also use pure canned pumpkin as well, don't mistake it for pumpkin pie filling, however.

Slices of sweet potato bread on a plate

Sweet potato bread variations

Change up the topping. Check out my Southern Style Sweet Potato Casserole, the streusel topping would be delicious on this sweet bread.

In addition to pecans, try adding raw pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to the mixture for some extra crunch.

Add dried cranberries for a tart flavor and some lovely color contrast.

Notes

  • Applesauce can be swapped out for vegetable oil if opting for a healthier version.
  • Be careful not to overmix your batter mix. The quick bread batter is very loose and wet, resembling pancake batter.

Looking for more dessert recipes? Try these out:

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

front shot of a loaf of sweet potato bread
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

Sweet Potato Bread

Enjoy a slice of this warmly spiced, pecan-topped, moist, and tasty sweet potato bread. A delicious dessert to add to your Thanksgiving lineup.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: sweet potato bread
Servings: 1 loaf
Calories: 1526kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

  • bread pan

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups All-purpose flour (188g)
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder (4g)
  • 1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice (2g)
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt (2g)
  • 1 cup Light brown sugar (200g)
  • 2 large Eggs lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup Vegetable oil
  • 1 cup Sweet potato (264g) mashed

Candied Pecan Topping (Optional)

  • ¾ cup Light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons Water
  • 1 cup Chopped pecans

Instructions

  • Create topping if using and set aside. Topping instructions are below.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease an 8x4 bread pan and set aside.
  • In a bowl, add all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and mashed sweet potato and whisk until combined.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Pour this batter into the prepared bread pan. If using candied pecan topping, follow the instructions below.*  Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick entered in the middle comes out clean.

Topping Instructions

  • Add brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and water to a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture and allow the sugar to melt and start to bubble. Allow the mixture to bubble for 2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the pecans. Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed for 5 minutes. The pecans will harden and candy.

Baking with candied pecans

  • Place the candied pecans over the bread batter in the pan and cover lightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake an additional 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick entered in the middle comes out clean

Nutrition

Serving: 8g | Calories: 1526kcal | Carbohydrates: 179g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 88g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 25g | Monounsaturated Fat: 48g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 372mg | Sodium: 1353mg | Potassium: 809mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 165g | Vitamin A: 604IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 281mg | Iron: 6mg

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Baked Turkey Thighs & Vegetables

When it comes to simple one-pot dishes you can't beat my Oven Baked Turkey Thighs & Vegetables. The turkey thighs are coated with a blend of spices and placed over a selection of vegetables before being baked in the oven.

White plate with oven baked turkey thighs, garnished with fresh parsley and served with a side of vegetables

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Turkey is a lean meat, that can take on great flavor. I love to cook turkey all year round and don't just save it for the festive holidays.

This versatile and economic cut makes it an ideal option for family dinner. Particularly during busy week nights as it can be prepared in minutes, then left to bake in the oven while you get on with your day.

I love the ease of one-pot dishes like this, particularly when they taste this good and result in crispy baked turkey thighs every time. Also, one-pot dishes cut down on the washing up which is a bonus any night of the week. And if you're keeping your Thanksgiving dinner small this year, this is perfect.

If you enjoy cooking with turkey then try some easy recipes using smaller cuts of turkey to make a quick mid week dinner. Try my Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin, Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Thighs, Seasoned Air Fryer Turkey Wings, Oven Baked Turkey Tenderloin, Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers or Juicy Ground Turkey Tacos.

For a decadent dish, try my Smothered Turkey Wings.

Ingredients

Oven baked turkey thighs recipe ingredients set into individual white bowls

Here is what you will need for this recipe:

  • Turkey thighs - I uses about 4 turkey thighs in this recipe, which can range about 3.5-4 pounds.
  • Olive oil - you can skip the olive oil if you prefer. I find that the thighs brown better in the oven when a fat is applied. You can also use butter or mayonnaise.
  • Seasoning - Poultry seasoning, cajun seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper are the seasoning base I use for my thighs. Feel free to mix this up if you like.
  • Fresh parsley - fresh parsley is used mainly for garnish.
  • Vegetables - Russet potatoes, carrots, celery, and sweet onion - these vegetables cook along with the turkey thighs, making it a one pan meal. The drippings from the seasoned turkey thighs give these vegetables so much flavor.

How to oven bake turkey thighs

Skin on turkey thighs coated in spice rub set into a white bowl

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add olive oil, poultry seasoning, Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to a bowl. Add the turkey thighs, rubbing the spice blend all over the thighs and under the skin. Set aside.

White oven proof dish containing layer of vegetables including potato carrots, celery and onion

Cut your vegetables and lay the cut vegetables into a 9x13 baking dish. Lay the seasoned turkey thighs on top of the vegetables.

White oven proof dish with a layer of vegetables and seasoned turkey thighs set on top

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the turkey thighs reach an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit and the vegetables are tender.

White oven proof dish with a layer of cooked vegetables and oven baked turkey thighs set on top

Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve the turkey thighs along with the roasted vegetables.

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best baked turkey thighs you've ever tasted. 

  • When it comes to flavor, I do recommend skin-on, bone-in thighs as they have the best flavor and result in crispy skin, with tender and juicy meat every time.
  • If time allows, you can marinate the turkey thighs in the seasoned rub from anything from 30 minutes to 4 hours (a longer marinate as it will improve the flavor).
  • A probe thermometer is the easiest method of checking the internal cooking temperature of turkey, or any other meat, to ensure it is done.
  • Once the turkey thighs have cooked, remove from the oven and set aside to rest for 5-10 minutes, before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to be absorbed back into the turkey and result is moist and tender meat.
Close up image of white oven proof dish with a layer of cooked vegetables and oven baked turkey thighs set on top

Variations 

Meat

I have used turkey thighs, but this recipe would also work with whole turkey legs, with chicken thighs, or whole chicken legs. Just adapt the length of the cook depending on the cut of poultry you are using. Whole legs will take longer to cook than thighs, while chicken will cook quicker than turkey as it's a smaller bird.

Vegetables

I add a layer of potato, carrot, celery, and sweet onion, but you can add any vegetables to the base of this dish. Try bell peppers; zucchini; parsnip; beetroot; celeriac; swede; mushroom; or any other vegetable that you enjoy roasting.

Spice Rub

This is a really versatile recipe so play with the flavors of the spice rub to suit your own tastes. Here are some suggestions if you want to mix things up.

  • Spices: onion powder; ground ginger; smoked paprika; cumin; coriander; allspice.
  • Herbs: dried herbs like thyme; sage; parsley; tarragon, bay leaf or rosemary.
  • Citrus: add some fresh citrus zest and a splash of juice, eg lemon; lime; or orange.
  • Chili: kick up the heat with some fresh chili, chili flakes, or chili powder.
White plate with sliced oven baked turkey thighs, garnished with fresh parsley and served with a side of vegetables

How to serve my baked turkey thighs 

Crispy oven baked turkey thighs with vegetables are an entire meal in one, so I tend to serve this filling dish just as it is. If I were to add anything I would be a little crusty bread alongside.

How to store leftover turkey

To refrigerate: Keep any leftover turkey thigh meat in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Leftovers make a great addition to salads, soups, pasta dishes and sandwiches the next day.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, place the turkey into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator when you are ready to enjoy.

Leftover veggies: The vegetables can also be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and warmed up in a pot over a medium heat on the stove, or placed back into a warm oven. Just take care when reheating the veggies that you don't overcook them.

Close up image of white oven proof dish with a layer of cooked vegetables and oven baked turkey thighs set on top

FAQs:

What temperature are turkey thighs cooked at?

I bake turkey thighs in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long to cook turkey thighs in the oven?

Baked in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, I cook turkey thighs for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How do you know when turkey thighs are done?

Turkey thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit. For accuracy, I use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, away from the bone.

Does turkey breast or thighs cook quicker?

Turkey breast cooks more quickly than thigh or leg joints.

Are turkey thighs healthy?

Yes, turkey is a low fat, lean cut of meat.

If you have tried this Oven Baked Turkey Thighs & Vegetables recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Close up image of white oven proof dish with a layer of cooked vegetables and oven baked turkey thighs set on top
Print Recipe
4.67 from 3 votes

Baked Turkey Thighs & Vegetables

When it comes to simple one-pot dishes you can’t beat my Oven Baked Turkey Thighs & Vegetables. The turkey thighs are coated with a blend of spices and placed over a selection of vegetables before being baked in the oven.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Caribbean
Keyword: baked turkey thighs, best baked turkey thighs, easy turkey thigh recipe, oven baked turkey thighs
Servings: 6
Calories: 556kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish

Ingredients

Turkey Thighs

Vegetables

  • 3 russet potatoes halved and cut into ½-inch pieces
  • 2 medium carrots chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 stalk celery chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 sweet onion sliced

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Add olive oil, poultry seasoning, Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to a bowl. Add the turkey thighs, rubbing the spice blend all over the thighs and under the skin. Set aside.
  • Lay the cut vegetables into a 9x13 baking dish. Lay the seasoned turkey thighs on top of the vegetables.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the turkey thighs reach an internal temperature of 170 degrees and the vegetables are tender.
  • Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve the turkey thighs along side the vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 556kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 164mg | Sodium: 1574mg | Potassium: 1268mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 3794IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 6mg

by 2 Comments

Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin

My Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin is simple to prepare and quick to cook. Start by rubbing the tenderloins with olive oil, poultry seasoning, onion powder, salt and pepper, then leave the air fryer to do all the hard work. A great tasting meal in minutes with flavorful turkey that's beautifully soft and tender.

Two sliced turkey tenderloins set onto a white serving platter with a garnish of fresh parsley

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Turkey tenderloin is a really lean meat, and given the smaller size of this cut, is ideal for smaller Thanksgiving, Christmas or holiday gatherings.

However, don't just think about cooking turkey over the festive holidays. I like using turkey tenderloin as this cut cooks quickly and cooks a lot quicker than a whole turkey breast. This makes it the ideal cut for family dinner any night of the week.

Also, this versatile cut of meat really takes on flavor and is a great, often cheaper, alternative to chicken breast.

The spice rub takes mere minutes to prepare, then the tenderloins get placed into the air fryer to be quickly cooked in only 25 minutes. The air fryer keeps the tenderloins tender and juicy.

For another great way to cook lean turkey breast meat with lots of flavor, try my Sous Vide Turkey Breast, my Oven Baked Turkey Tenderloin, Turkey Thighs and Vegetables, or my Air Fryer Turkey Breast.

Are turkey tenderloins the same as turkey breast?

No, the turkey tenderloin is the boneless part of the turkey breast. It is the skinless piece that sits between the turkey breast and the breast bone. It is a smaller cut than using the entire breast.

Ingredients

Air fryer turkey tenderloin ingredients set into individual white bowls

Here is what you will need for this recipe:

  • Turkey breast tenderloins - these usually come two in a pack and are usually ½ a pound or a ¾ of a pound each.
  • Seasoning - olive oil, poultry seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt and black pepper. This seasoning flavors the tenderloin.

How to cook turkey tenderloin in air fryer

Two seasoned turkey tenderloins set into a white bowl

Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Rub the turkey tenderloins with olive oil, poultry seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. 

Uncooked, seasoned turkey tenderloins set into air fryer basket

Place the turkey tenderloins in preheated air fryer basket.

Cook the tenderloins for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.  

Two cooked turkey tenderloins set into air fryer basket

Remove from the air fryer and set aside on a board to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best turkey tenderloin you've ever tasted. 

  • If time allows, you can marinate the turkey tenderloins in the seasoned rub from anything from 30 minutes to 4 hours (a longer marinate as it will improve the flavor).
  • A probe thermometer is the easiest method of checking the internal cooking temperature of turkey, or any other meat, to ensure it is done.
  • Once the turkey tenderloins have cooked, remove from the air fryer and set aside to rest for 5-10 minutes, before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to be absorbed back into the turkey and result is moist and tender slices of meat.

Variations 

This simple spice rub uses poultry seasoning and onion powder as a base. However, here are some other suggestions if you want to mix things up.

  • Spices: garlic powder; ground ginger; paprika; cumin; coriander; allspice.
  • Herbs: dried herbs like thyme; sage; parsley; tarragon or rosemary.
  • Citrus: add some fresh citrus zest, eg lemon; lime; or orange.
  • Chili: kick up the heat with some fresh chili, chili flakes or chili powder.

How to serve my air fryer turkey tenderloin  

Turkey is a very versatile meat and works with many different sides. I always like to serve potato, one or two veggie sides and some Homemade Gravy.

When it comes to great tasting sides you can't beat my Creamy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes, Scalloped Potatoes with Blue Cheese or my Garlic Mashed Potatoes. For a great alternative to regular potatoes try my Mashed Sweet Potatoes or my Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes.

For vegetable sides I like to add some green peas, or some simple steamed broccoli. Try my Fried Cabbage, Instant Pot Buttered Cabbage, Southern Green Beans, Smothered Green Beans, Carrot Soufflé or Marinated Air Fryer Vegetables.

Cooked and sliced turkey tenderloin set onto white plate with garnish of fresh parsley sprigs

How to store cooked turkey breast

To refrigerate: Keep any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Leftovers make a great addition to salads, soups, pasta dishes and sandwiches the next day.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, place the turkey into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator when you are ready to enjoy.

FAQs:

How long do you cook turkey tenderloins in an air fryer?

Place the tenderloins into an air fryer basket at 360 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 22-25 minutes.

What temperature should turkey tenderloin be cooked to?

Cook turkey until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Always check the thickest part of the tenderloin.

Can I cook a frozen turkey tenderloin in an air fryer?

Yes, according to the USDA you can cook frozen turkey from frozen in the air fryer. You will need to cook the turkey at a lower temperature of 330 degrees Fahrenheit and cook it longer, closer to 40-50 minutes. The turkey is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Are turkey tenderloins healthy?

Yes, this is a low fat, lean cut of meat.

Which part of the turkey is most tender?

As the name suggests, the tenderloin is the most lean, tender part of a turkey.

Is air frying healthier than regular frying?

Yes, air frying is significantly healthier than regular frying as the air fryer uses a lot less fats and oils.

If you have tried this Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Two sliced turkey tenderloins set onto a white serving platter with a garnish of fresh parsley
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin

Air fryer turkey tenderloin is simple to prepare and quick to cook. Rub the tenderloins with olive oil, poultry seasoning, onion powder, salt and pepper, then leave the air fryer to do all the hard work.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer turkey tenderloin, best air fryer turkey tenderloin, best turkey tenderloin, healthy air fryer recipe
Servings: 4
Calories: 217kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs turkey tenderloins 2 tenderloins, approx ¾ lb each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ tablespoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Rub the turkey tenderloins with olive oil, poultry seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Place the turkey tenderloins into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook the tenderloins for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Remove from the air fryer and set aside on a board to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 217kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 76mg | Sodium: 551mg | Potassium: 12mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.2mg

by Leave a Comment

Shrimp Stock

Homemade Shrimp Stock is a great make ahead ingredient. Sauté the shrimp shells with garlic, before adding water and some aromatic fresh herbs for a great tasting base stock. Once cooked, this versatile ingredient can be used in a whole range of different dishes.

Lidded jar of shrimp stock with label set onto a wooden board

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

My family loves shrimp, and shrimp based dishes feature regularly on the weekly dinner plan. Whilst I use the shrimp meat, I hate to see the shrimp shells going to waste.

Shrimp shells have so much flavor, that rather throwing them away, I like to make this simple shrimp stock. This is my best shrimp stock recipe, it uses ingredients most of us will have at home, and adds a boost of flavor to any dish it is added to.

I make my shrimp stock on the stovetop, but you can also use make Instant Pot Shrimp Stock, or Slow Cooker Shrimp Stock and I explain both those processes later in the post.

I like making my own homemade stocks and broths; that way, I know what's going into them. Homemade stock is always healthy as it contains no preservatives and also happens to be naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients Needed

  • Shrimp shells - I usually buy a pound or two of shrimp at a time and save the shells.
  • Aromatics and Herbs - I use garlic, celery, yellow onion, carrot, celery, whole black peppercorns, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, and salt.
  • Water - to make the stock.
Shrimp stock recipe ingredients set into individual white bowls

How to make shrimp stock

Heat a large pot over medium heat.

Add the oil, shrimp shells, and garlic and sauté until the shells turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. 

Stock pot containing sauted shrimp shells, oil and garlic

Add water, onion, carrot, celery, black peppercorns, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf to the pot and bring to a simmer.

Stock pot containing raw ingredients for shrimp stock

Simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, until the liquid has reduced and the stock tastes like shrimp. 

Strainer containing leftover shrimp stock ingredients

Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer. Add salt if desired.

Cool and use immediately or store for later use.

Silver bowl and ladle filled with shrimp stock

Other cooking methods

This recipe is easily adapted to suit other methods of cooking and I've detailed those below.

How to make shrimp stock in Instant Pot

After sautéing the shrimp shells and garlic in the oil, add to the Instant Pot along with the remaining ingredients. Cover the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then allow the pressure cooker to naturally release for 10 minutes.

How to make shrimp stock in slow cooker

Follow the directions above but add ingredients to a slow cooker after sautéing the shrimp shells and garlic. Slow cook on low for 6-8 hours. 

Lidded jar of shrimp stock with label set onto a wooden board

Why sauté the shrimp shells when making stock?

Sautéing the shrimp shells in garlic first adds depth of flavor to the finished stock. This important steps results in a richer, fuller, intensely flavored shrimp broth.

Uses for shrimp stock

As with any great-quality homemade stock, it can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding it to soups, like crab bisque, stews, and risotto—basically any dish where you would add a fish or seafood-based stock.

This makes a great base for shrimp stock soup, sauté some veggies, add the stock, and finally, some fresh shrimp.

You can also adapt the flavors to make an Asian shrimp stock, by adding some soy sauce, rice wine and slices of fresh ginger. Fresh red chilies can also be added for a kick of heat.

What makes homemade stock different to store bought?

Homemade stock always tastes better as you can tailor the recipe to suit. Also, there are no unnecessary additives and preservatives in a homemade stock, just simple, natural ingredients.

Top down image of jar of shrimp stock with recipe ingredients set in bowls alongside

Recipe Tips

  • When preparing shrimps for recipes there is always leftover shrimp shells. The shells have so much flavor and this is a great way to use them up, rather than wasting them.
  • Any time I'm preparing shrimp I save the shell and heads and place into a zip-loc freezer bag. I store the bag in the freezer, adding to it as I go along, until I am ready to cook up a batch of shrimp stock. The shells will store for up to 3 months in the freezer.
  • Divide the stock between several small jars or storage containers. Cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Don't season the stock with salt during the cook as you will ruin the flavor. As it bubbles away, the stock reduces and you can end up with really salty stock. Instead I season the stock to taste once it has been reduced, or season the food I am adding the stock to.

How do you store shrimp stock?

Homemade shrimp stock is a great make ahead ingredient, that can be stored until you are ready to use it. I like to make a large batch, using some now and freezing some for later.

To refrigerate: Once cooked allow the stock to cool in the jar or container, then when cold fit with a lid and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use ensure you heat the stock up to piping hot.

To freeze: Once cooked allow the stock to cool completely and place into an airtight container with a tight fitting lid. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly and reheat it to piping hot before serving.

Jar of shrimp stock set on a wooden board to cool

FAQs

Is seafood stock the same as seafood broth?

A seafood stock is slightly lighter than a seafood broth which will usually have other ingredients added to it, but they are predominantly the same. Seafood stock is used as a base to which other ingredients are added, whereas a broth an be eaten as it is.

Should you use shrimp heads in stock?

I use shrimp heads and shells when making stock, but never the meat of the shrimp as I tend to use that in other dishes.

More recipes featuring shrimp

We eat a lot of shrimp, so why not try some of these other great recipes, and save the shells for making this stock.

If you have tried this homemade shrimp stock recipe or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below.

Lidded jar of shrimp stock with label set onto a wooden board
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Shrimp Stock

Homemade Shrimp Stock is a great make ahead ingredient. Sauté the shrimp shells with garlic, before adding water and some aromatic fresh herbs for a great tasting base stock. Once cooked, this versatile ingredient can be used in a whole range of different dishes.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Sauce, Seasoning
Cuisine: American, Caribbean, French, Jamaican
Keyword: Best Shrimp Stock, Easy Shrimp Stock, Homemade Shrimp Stock, Shrimp Stock
Servings: 2.5 cups
Calories: 137kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons canola oil
  • shells from 1 pound of shrimp
  • 2 cloves garlic smashed
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 stalk celery
  • ½ teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 4 stems parsley
  • 1 bay leaf
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  • Heat oil over medium heat. Add oil, shells, and garlic. Sauté until the shells turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add water, onion, carrot, celery, black peppercorns, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.  Bring water to a simmer. Simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, until liquid has reduced and the broth tastes like shrimp.
  • Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer. Season with salt if desired. Cool and use immediately or store for later use.

Notes

Shrimp stock can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or it can be frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 73mg | Potassium: 224mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 4367IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 1mg

by 53 Comments

Air Fryer Carrots (Sweet or Savory)

These Air Fryer Carrots are perfectly roasted in your Air Fryer. Make them sweet or savory, whichever you prefer, in less time than it takes to roast them in the oven.

carrots in air fryer basket topped with parmesan cheese and parsley

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Carrots in the air fryer are pretty darn amazing. The one thing I love about it is how fast they can be made compared to the oven. Traditionally, roasted carrots in the oven take about 30 minutes to get perfectly tender and charred, but with the air fryer, you can cut that time down to about 20 minutes. 

Since I can never make up my mind about anything, I’ve included two recipes for air fryer carrots (one sweet and one savory) and will discuss my method and process for both. 

How to make Air Fryer Carrots

Sweet

For the sweet version of this recipe, you will need the following ingredients: Carrots, brown sugar, butter, and salt. Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon if you like.

First, wash and peel the carrots. You can leave the peel on if you prefer, but I found that the peel gives the carrots a slight bitter taste. If peeling, use a vegetable peeler so you don’t peel off too much of the carrot. 

Next, chop carrots into 1 inch large chunks and place in a large bowl. Pour melted butter, brown sugar, and salt over carrots and stir until the carrots are fully coated. 

Transfer carrots into an oven safe bowl that will fit in your air fryer. Cook on 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.  Salt to taste.

chopped carrots in bowl in air fryer basket
carrots that have been roasted in bowl in air fryer

Why the bowl? I’ve tested these carrots with and without the bowl for this sweet method. Without the bowl, the butter and sugar mixture seemed to drip right off the carrots, before it had a chance to really caramelize and flavor the carrots. In the bowl, the carrots are able to cook and caramelize in the butter mixture and results in much better flavor.

If you can't find a bowl that will fit your air fryer, you could use a little bit of foil paper in the bottom of the basket.

up close photo of roasted carrots

Savory

For the savory version of these air fryer carrots, you will need the following: Carrots, olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also use any other seasoning mix you like, such as this all-purpose seasoning.

Wash and peel your carrots. Place carrots in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika.

Place in the air fryer basket and cook on 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Once done, top with parsley and parmesan cheese. Salt and pepper to taste. 

carrots in air fryer basket
Savory air fryer carrots in air fryer basket topped with parmesan cheese and parsley

How to store leftover air fryer carrots

Store cooled carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cooked carrots will last up to 9 months in the freezer.

How to reheat carrots in the air fryer

To reheat carrots, add the carrots to the air fryer basket and reheat on 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes, about 4-7, until reheated through.

Notes

  • You could use baby carrots if you prefer but they won’t taste exactly the same. The larger carrots have much better flavor when roasted.
  • The size of your carrots will determine how long you need to cook them. Smaller carrots will cook faster while larger carrots will take longer. Check on your carrots halfway through cooking to determine doneness.
  • To use frozen carrots, add a few minutes to the cook time. Season halfway through cooking if using frozen carrots.

I hope you enjoy these roasted air fryer carrots as much as we do! If you’re looking for more air fryer vegetables, try these out:

This recipe is great paired with Air Fryer Ham.

Watch this video tutorial and see how I make these carrots from start to finish.

carrots in air fryer basket
Print Recipe
4.54 from 41 votes

Roasted Air Fryer Carrots (Sweet or Savory)

Air Fryer Roasted Carrots made two different ways. Whether you like sweet or savory carrots, this recipe has you covered. Make them in the air fryer in less time than a traditional oven.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer carrots, roasted carrots
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 119kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

Sweet Carrots

  • 1 lb carrots washed, peeled, and chopped into 1 inch pieces
  • 2 Tablespoon butter melted
  • 2 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Savory Carrots

  • 1 lb medium sized carrots washed and peeled
  • 2 Tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley optional

Instructions

Sweet Carrots

  • Pour melted butter, brown sugar, salt over carrots and stir until the carrots are fully coated.
  • Place carrots in an oven safe bowl that will fit in your air fryer. Cook on 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.

Savory Carrots

  • Place carrots in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Place in the air fryer basket and cook on 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, shaking halfway through. Once done, top with parmesan cheese and parsley. Salt and pepper to taste.

Video

Notes

*Nutritional information in post reflects sweet carrots. 
You could use baby carrots if you prefer but they won’t taste exactly the same. The larger carrots have much better flavor when roasted.

Nutrition

Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 275mg | Potassium: 363mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 19119IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1mg

This recipe was originally published on November 18, 2019. It has been updated with additional helpful information and tips.

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Homemade Blackened Seasoning

Homemade blackened seasoning is simple to make, combining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder and garlic powder, with dried thyme & oregano. It's really easy to make a big batch too, ready to use with a variety of meats, seafood and vegetables.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

This simple blend of herbs and spices packs a real flavor punch, adding intense flavor to various dishes.

My best-blackened seasoning recipe is ideal as it's made using the dried herbs and spices that most of us will already have in our store cupboards at home.

Use blackened seasoning for chicken, steak, and pork or for adding a touch of spice to shrimps or your favorite filet of fish. It also works a treat with vegetables too. Once made, you'll find a variety of uses for it.

What is the difference between Cajun and blackened seasoning?

These are two very similar seasoning blends, using some of the same spice ingredients. However, Cajun seasoning tends to be a spicier seasoning, containing ground chili. So, if you like your food on the slightly milder side, I'd opt for blackened seasoning.

How to make a homemade blackened seasoning

White bowl containing ingredients for blackened seasoning and an open jar of smoked paprika

Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl.

Store in an airtight container and store in a cool cupboard, out of direct sunlight.

Pour the spice blend into an airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid. It's ready to use straight away or store for later use.

What's in homemade blackened seasoning?

  • Smoked paprika
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Onion powder
  • Ground black pepper
  • Kosher salt
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried thyme
  • Garlic powder

How spicy is blackened seasoning?

When making your own seasoning blends, a lot comes down to personal taste. This seasoning uses cayenne pepper so it does have a kick to it. But if you like your spice on the milder side, simply cut back a little on the cayenne pepper.

That's what's great about making your own spice blends, you can really tailor to suit your own tastes.

White bowl and a wooden spoon with spice blend and jars of herbs and spices set alongside

Why make your own spice mix?

Not only is it really quick and easy to make your own spice blends and seasonings, it tends to be a lot less expensive, compared with store-bought spice blends. Also, store bought seasonings often contain unnecessary preservatives and additives, so it's a healthier option too.

How to store homemade blackened seasoning

Depending on the freshness of your herbs and spices, this blend will keep well for 3 to 6 months, so for sure, make up a big batch, so it's on hand to use. Once mixed, store it in an airtight container or jar in a cupboard, so it's out of direct sunlight.

Don't keep spices in the fridge, which can dull the flavors.

How do you use blackened seasoning?

This is an adaptable spice blend and once made, you'll find a whole host of uses for it. It works well to flavor steak, pork, chicken, seafood or vegetables.

Try seasoning some salmon or snapper filets, or add to chicken thighs or your favorite cut of steak before grilling. Sprinkle a spoon over a mix of vegetables while roasting them in the oven.

One of my favorite uses for this simple seasoning is in my Ninja Foodi Fish and Grits recipe. I also love it in my Blackened Chicken Alfredo recipe and my Blackened Shrimp recipe.

A white bowl containing a blend of spices, with an open jar of paprika and some measuring spoons set alongside

Tanya's Recipe Tips

  • Double, triple, or quadruple the recipe if you like. Adjust the serving size in the recipe card below to modify the ingredient amounts.
  • Store in an airtight container for future use.
  • Make sure that your ingredients aren’t stale. Rub a little of each between your fingers; if they release an aroma, they are good to use.
  • I prefer to make smaller batches of spice blends; that way, they always taste fresh.
  • A funnel makes it easy to pour spices into a jar.

FAQs

What does blackened seasoning taste like?

Blackened seasoning is a savory and slightly spicy seasoning blend, made using a combination of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme and oregano.

Do I need to use all the herbs and spices?

This spice blend is easily adapted to suit your own tastes, if there is a flavor you don't enjoy, then simply leave it out or add another flavor.

How long do homemade seasoning blends last?

A lot comes down to how fresh the dried herbs and spices were to start with. If fresh, with a long shelf life, once combined, this seasoning will store in an airtight container, in a dark cupboard, for up to 6 months.

More Seasoning Mixes

If you enjoy making your own seasoning mixes, here are some other recipes for you to try.

If you have tried this homemade blackened seasoning recipe or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below.

Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Blackened Seasoning

Homemade blackened seasoning is simple to make, combining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, with dried thyme & oregano. It's really easy to make a big batch too, ready to use with a variety of meats, seafood and vegetables.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: American
Keyword: best blackened seasoning, blackened seasoning mix, blackened seasoning spice blend, homemade blackened seasoning
Servings: 3 ounces
Calories: 32kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all the ingredients together in a small bowl.
  • Place in an airtight container and store in a cool cupboard, out of direct sunlight.

Notes

  • This recipe yields ⅓ cup (3 ounces) of blackened seasoning, but you can double, triple, or quadruple the recipe if you like.
  • Store in an airtight container for future uses. Keep it in a cupboard out of direct sunlight.
  • Make sure that your ingredients aren’t stale. Rub a little of each between your fingers, if they release an aroma they are good to use.
 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 32kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 781mg | Potassium: 189mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 3020IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 2mg