Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight

Savor the comforting and nutritious flavors of this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight. This one-pan dish combines the hearty goodness of lean ground turkey with the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, all seasoned with a blend of warming spices and fresh herbs. It’s a quick, wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

A Perfectly Balanced Skillet Meal

This skillet recipe is a wonderful combination of protein, healthy carbs, and delicious flavors. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory and spiced ground turkey, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or a comforting dish to enjoy any time of the year, this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The best part? It’s made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight

To create this delicious and well-balanced dish, you’ll need a handful of wholesome ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors and nutritional value of the meal.

Ground Turkey – A lean and protein-rich option that absorbs the seasonings beautifully, making the dish hearty and flavorful.
Sweet Potatoes – These naturally sweet and nutrient-dense potatoes add a soft texture and balance out the savory spices. They are also a great source of fiber and vitamins.
Onion – Adds depth and a mild sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the skillet.
Garlic – Brings an aromatic richness to the dish, elevating the flavors of the turkey and sweet potatoes.
Bell Pepper (optional) – A colorful addition that provides a subtle crunch and extra sweetness to the skillet.
Olive Oil – Helps in sautéing the ingredients while adding a touch of healthy fats.
Tomato Paste – Adds a slight tanginess and depth of flavor, binding the ingredients together.
Chicken Broth – Enhances the moisture and brings out the flavors while keeping the dish juicy.
Paprika – Gives a mild smoky warmth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Cumin – Adds an earthy, warm spice that pairs beautifully with the ground turkey.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish) – A final touch of freshness and color to brighten up the dish.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight

This one-pan dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few steps to bring everything together into a flavorful meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell pepper if using.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, and cumin for extra flavor. Once fully cooked, transfer the turkey to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet, stirring well to coat them with the aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and add the tomato paste, paprika, and additional seasonings. Stir everything together, cover, and let it cook until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the sweet potatoes are soft, return the cooked turkey to the skillet and mix well. Let everything simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Cook the Skillet Meal

The cooking time for this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight depends on the size of your sweet potatoes and the heat level. Here’s a general guideline to ensure perfectly cooked ingredients:

Browning the Turkey – 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink.
Sautéing the Onion and Garlic – 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Cooking the Sweet Potatoes – 10-15 minutes, covered, stirring occasionally until fork-tender.
Simmering Everything Together – 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Total cook time should be about 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this dish stores wonderfully and can be enjoyed later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer – Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips for the Best Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Want to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time? Follow these simple tips:

Cut the Sweet Potatoes Evenly – Smaller, uniform cubes cook faster and more evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet – This ensures the ingredients sauté properly rather than steaming.
Use a Large Skillet – A 12-inch skillet or larger works best to prevent overcrowding.
Adjust the Seasoning – Taste and tweak the spices to your preference, adding more paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
Try Different Herbs – While parsley and cilantro are great, fresh thyme or basil can add unique flavor twists.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can swap ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.

2. Can I add extra veggies?
Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions to boost nutrition.

3. Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent meal-prep option!