If you are looking for a hearty, comforting, and nutritious meal that comes together quickly on busy weeknights, this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is just the ticket. Filled with tender ground turkey, vibrant sweet potatoes, and colorful veggies all cooked in one pan, it balances savory spices and natural sweetness perfectly. The lovely combination of textures and the ease of preparation make this dish a true crowd-pleaser you will want to come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this flavorful skillet meal. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s providing richness, sweetness, or a burst of freshness, making the dish as satisfying as it is colorful.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up flavors wonderfully.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Sweet and tender cubes that add vibrant color and a comforting softness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed to golden perfection.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Offers a subtle crunch and bright, fresh flavor to complement the turkey.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that unmistakable punch of warmth and depth to the skillet.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses a smoky earthiness, elevating the whole dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The classic cooking fat that helps everything brown beautifully without overpowering flavors.
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Turkey
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s fully browned with no pink left. This step creates a flavorful protein base that caramelizes slightly for extra taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the turkey is cooked, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook them down for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. This layering of flavors adds sweetness and freshness that pairs perfectly with the turkey.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes and Seasonings
Next, stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything really well so the spices coat every piece. The cumin adds a warm depth that transforms simple ingredients into something memorable, while the sweet potatoes start to absorb all those lovely flavors.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gently steams the sweet potatoes until they become tender without falling apart. The flavors have time to meld into a satisfying harmony you won’t be able to resist.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and serve the dish right away. The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe shines when fresh and warm, bringing a cozy finish to your meal.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a lovely pop of green and a bright contrast to the earthy flavors. If you like a little richness, a light dusting of shredded cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt also pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal on its own but can be complemented nicely with a crisp green salad or some steamed greens. For an extra dose of fiber and freshness, try serving it alongside roasted broccoli or a tangy coleslaw.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe right in the skillet for a rustic vibe that keeps things casual and comforting. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to make it even heartier. For a fun twist, scoop the skillet mixture into whole wheat tortillas for a quick wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the cooled mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. This makes for a comforting meal that’s ready to be reheated on your busiest days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen, then warm the skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions until hot, but reheating gently on the stove helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will give a slightly milder flavor that still pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes and spices.
What can I add to make this recipe spicier?
If you like heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables to give the skillet a nice kick.
Are sweet potatoes necessary or can I substitute regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes add unique sweetness and color, but you can substitute with regular potatoes if preferred. Just keep in mind the cooking time and texture might vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this skillet is perfect for meal prep because it stays delicious even after a few days in the fridge and reheats easily without losing flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground turkey for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu. The sweet potatoes and spices will still shine with these hearty alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to meals because it combines simplicity, nutrition, and fantastic flavor all in one pan. Whether you are feeding your family or looking for a quick solo dinner, it’s a cozy dish that hits all the right notes. Give it a try and enjoy the warm satisfaction that comes with every bite.
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Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful one-pan meal that combines lean ground turkey with tender sweet potatoes and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it features simple seasoning and healthy ingredients, all cooked together in a skillet for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Oils and Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, crumbling with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add sweet potatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Cover and cook: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and all ingredients are fully combined.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the dish hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro, or sprinkle with cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder.
- If you like your sweet potatoes softer, add a splash of water or broth when covering to help steam them.
- This recipe is great for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make it lower carb, reduce the amount of sweet potatoes or replace with cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
