If you’re craving a quick, healthy, and super delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor, Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is the dish you didn’t know you needed. Picture perfectly seasoned ground turkey mingling with tender, caramelized sweet potatoes and a medley of savory spices that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. It’s hearty, comforting, and just a little bit sweet, making it the perfect dinner for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this over and over again!
Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly—it’s about feeling good while you eat. Here’s why this skillet delight is bound to become your new go-to:
Healthy and Nourishing
With lean ground turkey and the nutritional powerhouse of sweet potatoes, this meal is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s filling without being heavy, and the balance of sweet and savory keeps you coming back for more!
One-Pan Wonder
Who loves doing fewer dishes? This dish is cooked entirely in one skillet, which means easy prep, cooking, and cleanup. It’s a perfect recipe for those busy evenings when you want to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss.
Versatile Flavors
The combination of garlic, paprika, and other spices creates a warm, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to fit your tastes. Want it spicier? Add some chili flakes. Love extra garlic? Throw in a little more! You can make it your own.
Quick and Easy
From start to finish, this skillet meal comes together in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re hungry and need something satisfying and tasty, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly
Everyone in the family will love this dish. The sweet potatoes provide a comforting sweetness, while the turkey adds a rich, savory note. It’s easy to serve up with a simple side salad or roasted veggies, making it a well-rounded, family-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients
Now let’s talk about the magic that makes this skillet dish so irresistible. These ingredients come together effortlessly to create a flavor-packed, satisfying meal:
For the Skillet:
- Ground Turkey: Lean and full of protein, it cooks up wonderfully in the skillet, taking on all those delicious spices and flavors.
- Sweet Potatoes: Cubed and caramelized in the skillet, they bring a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the turkey and sweet potatoes to golden perfection.
- Yellow Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic: For that essential savory aroma and flavor.
- Ground Paprika: This will give the dish a subtle smokiness that complements the sweet potatoes.
- Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and a bit of earthiness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for balancing the dish and enhancing all the flavors.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are included in the recipe card above!)
Instructions
Let’s dive into how easy it is to create this skillet delight:
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and starting to brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season the turkey with paprika, cumin, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the turkey and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. This will add a nice savory base flavor to the turkey.
Step 4: Combine the Sweet Potatoes and Turkey
Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet with the turkey and onion mixture. Stir everything together to combine and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if desired. If you like it a little spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated through and well-seasoned, serve the skillet hot. It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with a simple side salad or some sautéed greens.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 25g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
This dish is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more satisfying:
With a Side Salad
Pair this skillet with a light, refreshing side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a tangy balsamic dressing to balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
Over Rice or Quinoa
If you’re craving a little extra bulk, serve the turkey and sweet potato mixture over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrients.
With Roasted Veggies
Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even a mix of bell peppers and zucchini would complement this dish beautifully and add even more flavor.
On a Bed of Greens
Serve it over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a lighter, low-carb option. The warm turkey and sweet potato mix will slightly wilt the greens for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Additional Tips
Use Pre-Cooked Sweet Potatoes
If you’re in a rush, you can save time by using pre-cooked sweet potatoes, which can be found in the freezer section. Just heat them through in the skillet with the turkey!
Customize Your Spices
Feel free to add more of your favorite spices or even a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little kick. This dish is super versatile, so adjust it to your taste!
Meal Prep Friendly
This skillet dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also make it ahead and reheat for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Add Some Greens
For a well-rounded meal, you can stir in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra vitamins and color.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
A1: Yes! Ground beef will work perfectly, though it will be a bit richer in flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning it.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This skillet meal keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also make it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables?
A3: Yes! Feel free to throw in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to up the veggie content. Just add them to the skillet as you cook the onions.
Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?
A4: Of course! Add some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to give it the kick you love. Adjust the heat to your taste.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the skillet or microwave.
Q6: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A6: Yes! You can swap the ground turkey for a plant-based protein, like lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute. The sweet potatoes still add that perfect balance of sweetness.
Q7: How can I make this dish lower carb?
A7: If you want to reduce carbs, simply swap the sweet potatoes for a lower-carb vegetable like cauliflower. It’ll still be delicious and satisfying!
Q8: Can I freeze this dish?
A8: Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q9: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A9: Absolutely! A sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, would melt beautifully on top. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Q10: How do I make this dish spicy but not too hot?
A10: Start by adding a small amount of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. You can always add more, but it’s easier to adjust the heat than to tone it down.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is the kind of dish that makes you feel good with every bite. It’s simple, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family dinner, this meal is a winner every time. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and totally customizable. So grab that skillet and start cooking—this is a meal you’ll want to make again and again!
PrintGround Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is a wholesome and delicious one-pan meal! Packed with lean protein, nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and healthy. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights. The savory turkey and slightly sweet potatoes make a flavorful combo your whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional, for added greens)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the sweet potatoes: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown slightly.
- Cook the turkey: Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet. In the same skillet, add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked through.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Season: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the turkey and sweet potatoes. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to fully incorporate.
- Add spinach (optional): If using, stir in the baby spinach and cook for another minute, just until wilted.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
- Serve immediately as a filling and flavorful main dish!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- For extra heat, add some chili flakes or a diced jalapeño during cooking.
- This dish is great on its own, but can also be served with a side of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the skillet
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg