If you’re searching for a wholesome, vibrant dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies big cravings, this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is your new best friend. It combines lean ground turkey with naturally sweet, tender sweet potatoes and colorful veggies, all simmered in one pan for a comforting yet fresh meal. The flavors meld perfectly—with cumin adding a warm, earthy hint while garlic and bell pepper bring a bright lift—making it an effortless dish that feels homemade and nourishing every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, clean ingredients make this dish shine, each playing a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that inviting color palette. Using pantry staples and fresh produce, you’ll love how easily they come together to create something truly special.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and protein-packed, it forms the hearty base of the skillet.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: These add natural sweetness and a creamy texture once cooked.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a mild pungency and a touch of sweetness as it softens.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a burst of color and crisp, fresh flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for adding aromatic depth and savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy spice that ties all ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances every ingredient naturally.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and contributing subtle fruitiness.
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 and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully browned and cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish, and getting a nice, even cook on the turkey ensures juicy and flavorful bites.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and their aromas fill your kitchen. This stage adds sweetness and freshness, making the skillet more vibrant both in taste and appearance.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with cumin, salt, and pepper. The cumin gently warms the dish, perfectly complementing the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, while salt and pepper balance all the flavors. Make sure everything is well mixed so every bite is harmonious.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sweet potatoes will soften to a fork-tender perfection, absorbing the spices and juices from the turkey and veggies. This step is crucial for melding those flavors together, making this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe truly comforting and delicious.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own but shines even brighter when garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flair.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe, try adding chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions. A light sprinkle of crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can add a creamy contrast, while a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt brings a cooling touch that balances the warmth of the cumin.
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed greens like spinach or kale. Warm crusty bread or tortillas also make lovely vessels for scooping up every last bit, turning the meal into a fun, shareable experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for extra heft. You can also stuff it into bell peppers or top it with a fried egg for a brunch-worthy meal. The vibrant colors of the sweet potatoes and vegetables really bring the dish to life on any plate, inviting everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to develop as it rests, making leftovers just as satisfying as the day it was cooked.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time for busy days, it freezes well. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you defrost it, the texture and flavors remain wonderfully intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave with short bursts to keep the turkey moist and the sweet potatoes tender. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help maintain the perfect skillet consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and keeps the dish lean and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking times slightly to ensure it’s cooked through.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you prefer extra fiber and don’t mind a bit of chew, you can leave the skin on after thorough washing.
What can I substitute for cumin?
If cumin isn’t your favorite, smoked paprika or ground coriander are great alternatives that still provide warmth and depth of flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is mild with a gentle warmth from the cumin. You can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want a bit of kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect hearty and safe option for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about throwing together a meal that’s easy, nourishing, and packed with flavor like this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. It’s a weekday hero that feels homemade and heartwarming—perfect to enjoy any day of the week. I’m excited for you to try it and make it your own kitchen classic!
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
This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick and wholesome one-pan meal combining lean ground turkey with nutritious sweet potatoes and fresh vegetables, all cooked together in a flavorful cumin-spiced sauté. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground turkey
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Oils & Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, crumbling it with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add sweet potatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat everything evenly in the spices.
- Cover and cook: Put a lid on the skillet and let the mixture cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the dish hot. For extra flavor, you can garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to dice the sweet potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
- For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or chili flakes along with the cumin.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro adds a bright finish to the dish.
