If you’re searching for a cozy, colorful, and downright satisfying one-pan meal, Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is sure to win you over. This simple weeknight staple brings together naturally sweet cubes of tender sweet potato, lean ground turkey, and plenty of vibrant veggies for a meal that effortlessly balances nourishing comfort with lively flavors. There’s something special about how the smoked paprika and cumin mingle with juicy bell pepper and savory turkey, creating a skillet dish you’ll want to make again and again—trust me, it’s a go-to in my kitchen whenever I crave both ease and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is how you can make magic with just a handful of everyday ingredients—each one picks up a starring role, adding either rich flavor, satisfying texture, or gorgeous color. Here’s what you’ll need and a little tip for each to make your skillet shine.
- Ground Turkey: Lean and full of protein, it soaks up the spices deliciously and keeps things lighter than beef.
- Sweet Potatoes: They bring natural sweetness and creaminess—the smaller you dice them, the quicker they cook.
- Onion: Adds aromatic depth and rounds out the savory notes beautifully.
- Garlic: Every great skillet starts with plenty of garlic for that classic warm, comforting kick.
- Red Bell Pepper: Not just for color, but sweet, juicy bites in every forkful.
- Olive Oil: The base for sautéing, infusing richness as the veggies cook.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds an extra layer of smoky, savory flavor that takes the whole skillet up a notch.
- Chili Powder: Gives gentle warmth without overwhelming the dish—mild enough for everyone to enjoy.
- Ground Cumin: A touch here deepens the earthiness and complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for pulling all the flavors together and bringing out the natural sweetness.
- Black Pepper: Just enough to balance and add a subtle kick.
- Chicken Broth or Water: Helps the sweet potatoes become meltingly tender and keeps everything moist.
- Fresh Parsley: Don’t skip the finishing touch! Fresh herbs wake up every flavor and add a pretty pop of green.
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Step 1: Soften the Sweet Potatoes
Start by heating the olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your diced sweet potatoes and give them a good stir. Let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally—they’ll slowly transform into golden, crisp-edged cubes that are just beginning to soften inside. This jumpstart ensures every bite of your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is tender without falling apart.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Veggies
Next, heap in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. These veggies add beautiful color and a layer of sweetness that’s irresistible as it cooks down. Sauté this mix for 3 to 4 minutes, just until everyone in the kitchen can smell that irresistible aroma and the onions turn translucent. You want everything softened and mingling, but not mushy.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Now, push your veggie mixture to one side of the skillet, making room for the turkey. Add the ground turkey to the open side and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. In about 6 to 8 minutes, it should lose its pink color and develop those beautiful brown edges. Bringing the turkey and veggies together at this stage infuses every bite with flavor—a key reason Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is always so craveable.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Time to add some personality! Sprinkle in your smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well so the flavors coat every bite. Pour in the chicken broth or water, cover, and let everything simmer gently for 5 more minutes. This quick steam does wonders, melding the flavors together while the sweet potatoes become perfectly tender. The skillet transforms into a cohesive, aromatic dish that’s ready for the table.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, shower the skillet with a handful of fresh chopped parsley. It adds a burst of color and brightness that makes every portion feel special. Then, scoop up hearty spoonfuls and get ready to dig in—the comforting aromas will have everyone flocking to the table.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Garnishes
No Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is complete without a generous sprinkle of something fresh over the top! I love using chopped fresh parsley for its clean flavor and pop of green, but thinly sliced green onions, cilantro, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt can make fun, tasty finishes. Feel free to tailor your garnish to the mood or occasion—each option adds its own lively note to the skillet.
Side Dishes
While Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can confidently stand alone as a hearty main, pairing it with a crisp green salad or a light slaw helps balance all those warm, rich flavors. I also enjoy adding a side of fluffy brown rice or quinoa for extra staying power, especially if I’m serving bigger appetites. For something lighter, simple steamed greens like broccoli or green beans are easy and delicious alongside this skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch up the presentation, try spooning your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet into roasted bell pepper halves for a fun, edible bowl—or serve atop a bed of baby spinach for an instant power salad. It also makes a fantastic filling for toasted tortillas or a sturdy grain bowl—just top with a fried egg for a brunch-worthy twist. However you serve it, this skillet never fails to look and taste inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet will keep beautifully in the fridge, making weekday lunches an absolute breeze. Simply let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors get even deeper overnight, so don’t be surprised if tomorrow’s serving tastes even better!
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or avoid food waste, this skillet freezes well for up to two months. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers (removing as much air as possible), label, and lay flat in your freezer. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—it’s a lifesaver on busy days when you need a wholesome meal in minutes.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet again, the stovetop is my favorite way to reheat—it keeps the veggies and turkey tender and fresh. Add a splash of water or broth and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a covered bowl in 1-minute bursts, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I add more vegetables to this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
Absolutely! This recipe is endlessly flexible—try tossing in spinach, kale, or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens. Mushrooms, corn, or black beans are welcome additions, too, making each skillet unique to you.
What can I use if I don’t have ground turkey?
No ground turkey on hand? Ground chicken, lean beef, or even cooked shredded chicken work just as well, each lending a little something different to the flavor profile. Plant-based grounds can also stand in nicely for a vegetarian version.
Can I make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet spicy?
If you love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the other spices. You could also serve it with hot sauce on the side, so everyone can dial up the spice level to their own taste.
Is this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spices and broth to be sure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives if you’re cooking for someone sensitive.
Can I prep any parts of this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can chop all your veggies a day ahead and store them in the fridge, making assembly even faster. You can also brown the turkey and store it separately, speeding up dinner on a busy night.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet enough—it’s nourishing, flexible, and comes together with ease in just one pan. If you’re looking for a recipe to anchor your weeknight dinners or meal prep, give this one a try and share it with someone you love. Delicious, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying, this skillet is sure to earn a spot in your regular meal rotation!
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Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Ground turkey is cooked with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and a blend of spices for a delicious and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey:
- 1 pound ground turkey
Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquid:
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Turkey: Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned.
- Season and Simmer: Season with spices, pour in chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- This dish is versatile—add spinach or kale for extra greens.
- For a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
