Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This skillet is the perfect balance of protein, healthy carbs, and vegetables, making it both satisfying and nourishing. It’s made in just one pan, which means minimal cleanup, and it’s incredibly customizable based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or a make-ahead option for the week, this turkey and sweet potato skillet delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground turkey
- Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Red bell pepper (chopped)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- If using spinach or kale, stir it in now and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes
Variations
- Add Beans: Stir in canned black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Tex-Mex Style: Add corn and top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap seasonings for soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with lentils, black beans, or plant-based ground.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish also freezes well—cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well and has a similar flavor and texture.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional. The skin is edible, but peeling gives a smoother texture.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or feta on top adds extra flavor.
What if my sweet potatoes aren’t cooking fast enough?
Cover the skillet for a few minutes to trap steam and help soften them quicker.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores and reheats very well, making it perfect for prepping ahead.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can cook the entire dish and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or spinach are great additions or swaps.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just add them straight to the skillet and adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and add a splash of broth or water if the skillet becomes too dry.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With lean protein, vibrant veggies, and warm spices, it’s a comforting and nourishing dish that comes together quickly and keeps well—making it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintTurkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a healthy, one-pan meal made with ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and colorful veggies sautéed with warm spices. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- If using spinach or kale, stir it in and cook for another 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- For faster sweet potato cooking, cover the skillet briefly to trap steam.
- Swap turkey with ground chicken, beef, or plant-based meat for variety.
- Add cooked beans or corn for extra fiber and texture.
- Great for meal prep—reheats well and freezes easily.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
