This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is a wholesome, hearty dish that’s packed with bold flavors and nutritious ingredients. Tender sweet potatoes, savory ground turkey, and colorful bell peppers come together in one pan for an easy and delicious dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean and flavorful protein.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes: Naturally sweet and rich in nutrients.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and bringing out the flavors.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic kick.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Adds color, crunch, and sweetness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Provides a warm, smoky depth.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: For a subtle earthy spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sweet potato cubes and sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened and golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
- In the same skillet, add the ground turkey.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Stir well to coat the turkey in the spices.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Return the sautéed sweet potatoes to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the skillet hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired.
- Enjoy on its own or over rice, quinoa, or with a side salad.
Tips for the Best Skillet Delight
- Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Small, uniform cubes cook more quickly and evenly.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sauté the ingredients in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Add Greens: Toss in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
- Make It Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt for a creamy finish.
- Herby Twist: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Swap the Protein: Use ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles instead of turkey.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Grains: Pair with cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
- Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or flatbread for dipping.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad balances the warm, hearty flavors.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes! Thaw them before cooking to remove excess moisture, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground turkey with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based protein alternative.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Chop the sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper in advance and store them in the fridge for easy assembly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 6g
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is a flavorful and healthy dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its bold spices, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you added your own creative twist.
Happy cooking! 🍠✨