Get ready to fall in love with dinner all over again with this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. It brings together the perfect harmony of lean ground turkey and naturally sweet, tender sweet potatoes, creating a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This dish isn’t just quick and easy, it’s also incredibly satisfying and colorful, making it a weeknight favorite that feels just like a warm hug on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the savory ground turkey adds protein and a hearty base, sweet potatoes bring a tender sweetness and vibrant color, while the onion, bell pepper, and garlic layer in fresh aromatics and flavor. Together, these components make this dish both nutritious and delicious.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Choose lean for a healthy, protein-packed base that cooks quickly and absorbs seasoning well.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness balances the savory turkey and adds beautiful orange hues.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a crisp bite and a pop of color to brighten the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant, savory kick that makes the dish truly mouthwatering.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and a hint of earthiness, bringing all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook the turkey and vegetables, contributing a mild fruity richness.
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. Brown it evenly until it’s fully cooked through with a nice, slightly golden crust. This creates a flavorful base that will mingle beautifully with the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Once the turkey is ready, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness comes forward. This step is key to layering the flavors for a rich, aromatic skillet.
Step 3: Add sweet potatoes and seasonings
Now, stir in the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the sweet potatoes with the warm spices and seasonings. The cumin adds a lovely depth, while the seasoning brings all the elements in harmony.
Step 4: Cover and cook
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally. This allows the sweet potatoes to become fork-tender, absorbing all the savory, spiced flavors and creating a perfectly melded skillet filling.
Step 5: Serve hot and enjoy
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from heat and dish out the warm, comforting mixture. This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and hot, making it a cozy and nourishing meal for any day.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish is like adding a little sparkle to a beautiful dress. Try sprinkling some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of greenery and brightness. A light dusting of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can also add creaminess that perfectly contrasts the savory spice.
Side Dishes
This skillet is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to keep things light and balanced. For a heartier option, a crusty piece of bread or a spoonful of fluffy rice works beautifully to soak up any delicious juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve this dish in individual mini skillets or even stuffed inside warm pita pockets for a fun twist. You can also top it with a fried egg for brunch or drizzle with a tangy yogurt sauce to elevate the flavors. The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is super versatile for any meal occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and makes it an easy grab-and-go option for busy days when you need a quick, wholesome meal.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just portion it out so you can thaw exactly what you need without waste.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between to ensure even heating. The turkey and sweet potatoes stay tender and flavorful even after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will also provide a lean protein option. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll still get a delicious result.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for those avoiding gluten. Just double-check any added seasonings or toppings to be sure.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Feel free to sneak in chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the veggie content. Just add them when sautéing the onion and bell pepper so they cook evenly.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild by default, featuring warm cumin tones without heat. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the spice level.
Can I meal prep with this recipe?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prepping. Prepare a big batch, store in portioned containers, and you have easy, nutritious meals ready throughout the week. It reheats wonderfully too!
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe truly shines in its simplicity and heartiness, making it the perfect go-to dish for busy nights or anytime you want comforting flavors on the table quickly. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A wholesome and flavorful Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet that combines lean ground turkey with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and vibrant vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, featuring a blend of aromatic spices and cooked in a single skillet for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Proteins and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it while crumbling with a spoon until it is browned and fully cooked through.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.
- Add sweet potatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Cover and cook: Place a cover on the skillet to trap steam and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the dish hot. Optionally garnish with chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro, or sprinkle some cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to cut sweet potatoes into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle paprika or chili powder along with cumin.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs or cheese adds texture and enhances presentation.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free and low-fat by using lean ground turkey and olive oil.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the vegetables.
