Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet – Quick, Healthy, and Delicious

There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal, isn’t there? Especially on those evenings when time is short but the craving for something wholesome and satisfying is strong. That’s exactly why this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet has become a weeknight hero in my kitchen. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and—best of all—comes together in just about 30 minutes. Plus, the combination of savory ground turkey and sweet potatoes feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to tweak it based on what you have on hand!

• 1 lb ground turkey – I prefer 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and healthiness.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes – Peeled and diced into small cubes for quick cooking.
• 1 small onion – Finely chopped. Yellow or red both work beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced. Because what’s a skillet meal without garlic?
• 1 bell pepper – Diced. I love the pop of color from red or orange peppers.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp cumin – A warm, earthy touch.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, of course.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing everything to golden perfection.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro – For garnish, because a little green makes everything better.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that we’ve got everything prepped, it’s time to bring this skillet to life. Follow these simple steps, and dinner will be ready before you know it.

1. Sauté the onions and garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds—just until fragrant.
2. Brown the ground turkey. Add the turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes and bell pepper. Toss them into the skillet and stir to combine. If the pan seems dry, you can add a splash of broth or water to help the sweet potatoes soften.
4. Cover and simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let everything cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sweet potatoes should be tender but not mushy.
5. Taste and adjust. Give it a taste and add more salt or spices if needed. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving for a bright finish.

And just like that, you’ve got a nourishing, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Stay tuned for pro tips, serving suggestions, and more in the next part!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This ground turkey sweet potato skillet is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of ground turkey? Try ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Love heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give this dish a kick.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or crumbled feta on top before serving for a creamy finish.

What to Serve With Your Skillet

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with simple sides:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Warm, crusty whole-grain bread or fluffy cornbread
• Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices for extra creaminess

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This skillet meal keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

• Storage: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Frozen diced sweet potatoes work well—just add them straight to the skillet without thawing. You may need to cook them a few extra minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged spices or broth to ensure they’re certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

You sure can! Sauté the turkey first, then add the sweet potatoes and remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release.

How can I make it more kid-friendly?

Try cutting the sweet potatoes into smaller cubes for easier eating, or mix in a little shredded cheese to make it extra appealing to little ones.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—a cozy, nourishing meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the days ahead, this ground turkey sweet potato skillet is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. The best part? It’s packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients that’ll leave you feeling satisfied and happy. Happy cooking, friends!