If you are looking for a delicious, colorful, and hearty meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is an absolute winner. It perfectly balances the mild, lean flavor of ground turkey with the sweetness and earthiness of tender sweet potatoes, all enhanced by a vibrant mix of spices and fresh greens. This one-pan wonder is as nutritious as it is satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels comforting and fresh all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays an essential role in crafting a dish that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and color. From the sweetness of the potatoes to the aromatic spices and fresh herbs, every item contributes to the perfect balance in this recipe.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious spices.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Adds a natural sweetness and hearty texture, making this skillet filling and vibrant.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and helps develop those golden flavors.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Lends a sweet, savory depth when sautéed until translucent.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a pop of color and a subtle crunch, balancing the softer textures.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy nuance that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Offers a mild kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring out all the natural flavors in the skillet.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A classic spice to add subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect if you like a little extra spice and zing.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sweet potatoes tender and adds a savory depth.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Folds in freshness and vibrant green color while adding nutrients.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Sprinkled on top at the end for a bright, herbal finish.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil needs to be warm enough to gently cook the aromatics without burning, setting the stage for all the amazing flavors to come.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base that the whole dish will rest on.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
Next, toss in the ground turkey. Use a spatula to break it apart while it cooks evenly and browns nicely. Browning the turkey adds depth to its flavor and ensures it’s fully cooked through before combining with everything else.
Step 4: Add Sweet Potatoes, Bell Pepper, and Spices
Now stir in the diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper along with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Coating the sweet potatoes and pepper in these spices will create a wonderful aroma and give the dish its signature warmth and color.
Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth, Cover, and Simmer
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then cover it and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the sweet potatoes become tender. This step ensures everything melts together into a harmonious blend that feels just right.
Step 6: Add Baby Spinach and Finish Cooking
Lastly, stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. This adds a fresh, leafy texture and boosts the nutritional value without overpowering the other flavors.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off, sprinkle the skillet with freshly chopped parsley. The bright, herbaceous notes from the parsley uplift the dish and provide a fresh contrast to the rich, spicy flavors. A wedge of lime on the side can also add a delightful tang and brighten every bite even more.
Side Dishes
This skillet is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with crusty bread to soak up any juices or served alongside a crisp green salad for an extra burst of freshness. For a low-carb option, a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe stuffed inside warm pita pockets or tortillas, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices. This makes it portable and perfect for casual lunches or even picnic fare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep this deliciousness on hand for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of broth or water to keep the sweet potatoes moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great substitute, offering a similar mild flavor and lean protein content. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it can vary slightly.
Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling sweet potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture in this skillet, but if you prefer to keep the skin on for extra fiber and nutrients, just be sure to clean them thoroughly and dice them evenly.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness is mild and adjustable. The red pepper flakes are optional, so feel free to skip or add more depending on your heat preference.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or even some corn kernels to mix up the textures and flavors according to what you have on hand.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of seasoning. Broth adds flavor, so adjusting salt and spices can help compensate.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to serve friends or family. I can’t recommend giving it a try highly enough—once you do, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite go-to for comforting, wholesome meals that satisfy every time.
Print
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet recipe that combines lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables cooked in a single skillet. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Cook ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it is browned and no longer pink.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, mixing everything well to combine.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add spinach and parsley: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor.
- Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for added brightness.
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are diced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or beef depending on preference.
