Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Inspiration

I love making this Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet for a hearty and nutritious meal. It's incredibly easy to whip up and packed with flavor! The combination of ground turkey and sweet potatoes creates a wonderful texture and sweetness that my family enjoys. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for me. Whether I'm rushing during the week or planning for a family gathering, this recipe fits any occasion perfectly. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:10:35.541Z

When I first attempted this Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet, I wasn't sure how the flavors would blend. After a few rounds of experimenting, I discovered that adding spices like cumin and paprika helped enhance the dish beautifully. I particularly love the natural sweetness that the sweet potatoes bring, which complements the lean turkey and makes it a well-rounded meal.

Another tip I've found is to let the sweet potatoes get slightly crispy when cooking. It adds an amazing texture and flavor that elevates the dish beyond basic skillet meals. The result was a vibrant, healthy dish that my family devoured in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A nutritious meal in one skillet
Balanced flavors from sweet potatoes and spices
Perfect for easy weeknight dinners

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When preparing this skillet dish, the type and freshness of your sweet potatoes can significantly impact the flavor and texture. Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes, as any soft spots may indicate overripeness. I prefer using medium-sized sweet potatoes for this recipe, as they typically yield a nice balance between sweetness and cooking time; they'll soften beautifully within the 15-20 minutes of sautéing.

For an added dimension of flavor, consider using purple or Japanese sweet potatoes. These varieties not only introduce a unique taste but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish with their vibrant colors. If you happen to have leftover sweet potatoes, they can be easily cubed and stored in the fridge for up to five days, making them a convenient option for meal prep.

Customizing Your Skillet

The beauty of this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is in its versatility. Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a meat-free option. Adjusting the spices can also transform the dish; adding chili powder or cayenne can introduce a nice kick for those who enjoy heat. If you're looking to amp up the nutritional value, consider tossing in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving; they wilt perfectly and add extra vitamins.

Incorporating different vegetables such as zucchini or corn can provide additional textures and flavors. When adding extra veggies, just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly—aim for a tender, yet slightly crisp result. For a heartier version, you could even mix in some cooked quinoa or brown rice, which would soak up the lovely spices and provide extra fiber.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet:

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.

Add Vegetables

Once the turkey is cooked, push it to the side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

Incorporate Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir all ingredients together and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. It will wilt quickly and boost the nutrition of your dish.

Storage Tips

Once prepared, this skillet dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. The stovetop method helps maintain the dish's texture, which can become a bit mushy if microwaved directly, as the sweet potatoes may lose their firmness.

If you're looking to prep ahead, you can cook the turkey separately and store it in the fridge or freezer. Sweet potatoes can also be prepped in advance—cube them and keep them submerged in water in the fridge to prevent browning. This way, when you're ready for a quick meal, you can combine the pre-cooked ingredients in just a few minutes!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet, consider serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top, which adds a tangy balance to the dish's sweetness. Pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can round out the meal perfectly, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the skillet.

If you like a bit of crunch, serve it alongside some crusty whole-grain bread or pita chips for dipping. This adds texture and makes the meal feel more substantial, enhancing the overall dining experience. I also love to sprinkle some feta cheese over the top right before serving—its creaminess beautifully complements the savory spices in the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or even vegetarian alternatives.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for extra heat.

→ What can I pair with this skillet?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or over cooked quinoa for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.