Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Easy Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe That Sizzles

Whipping up a ground turkey and sweet potato skillet promises a delightful meal that combines lean protein with hearty, nutrient-packed vegetables.

Crisp autumn colors dance across the plate, inviting you to savor each comforting bite.

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity without sacrificing flavor, and this recipe delivers perfectly.

Home cooks appreciate meals that come together quickly and satisfy hungry appetites.

Nutritious ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a balanced dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a nourishing dinner in under thirty minutes.

Dive into this skillet and experience a culinary adventure that will become a household favorite.

Why This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Is a Smart Choice

  • Quick and Nutritious Meal: Packed with lean protein from ground turkey and wholesome sweet potatoes, this skillet delivers a balanced, satisfying dinner in one pan.
  • Minimal Cleanup Champion: Cooking everything in a single skillet means fewer dishes to wash, saving precious time and reducing kitchen mess after meal preparation.
  • Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily adapt seasonings and spices to suit personal taste preferences or accommodate dietary needs without compromising the recipe's core structure.
  • Weeknight Dinner Hero: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, making it perfect for busy families seeking a delicious, stress-free meal solution.

What’s in This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Main Protein:
  • Ground Turkey: A lean protein that provides a healthy base for the skillet meal and creates a hearty foundation.
Vegetables:
  • Sweet Potatoes, Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic: A colorful blend of vegetables that adds nutrition, texture, and depth of flavor to the dish.
Seasonings and Liquids:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Dried Thyme: A balanced spice mix that enhances the overall taste profile of the turkey and vegetables.
  • Olive Oil, Chicken Broth: Essential liquids that help cook and develop rich flavors in the skillet.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright garnish that adds a fresh, herbal finish to the completed dish.

Quick Cooking Instructions for the Turkey Skillet

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables

Peel and slice sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop onions, mince garlic, and dice bell peppers. Having all ingredients ready will make cooking smoother and faster.

Ingredients:
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Bell peppers

Step 2: Sizzle The Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for cooking.

Step 3: Brown The Turkey

Add ground turkey to the hot skillet. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the turkey loses its pink color and develops a golden-brown exterior.

Step 4: Soften The Vegetables

Toss chopped onions and bell peppers into the skillet with the turkey. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become translucent and slightly soft.

Step 5: Season The Mixture

Sprinkle seasonings over the turkey and vegetable mixture:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Dried thyme

Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 6: Add Sweet Potatoes

Introduce diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine with turkey and vegetables, allowing potatoes to start caramelizing and absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Simmer And Steam

Pour chicken broth into the skillet. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes until sweet potatoes become tender.

Step 8: Reduce And Concentrate

Remove the lid and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. This helps excess liquid evaporate and intensifies the dish’s flavors.

Step 9: Finish And Garnish

Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a rustic, homemade feel.

Expert Tips for the Best Turkey Skillet

  • Dice Sweet Potatoes Precisely: Cut cubes into uniform 1/2-inch pieces to guarantee even cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain hard.
  • Boost Flavor Intensity: Toast spices like paprika and thyme in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding turkey to release deeper, richer aromatic compounds.
  • Control Moisture Levels: If skillet becomes too dry during cooking, add small splashes of chicken broth to prevent sticking and maintain juiciness.
  • Enhance Nutritional Profile: Swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken or plant-based crumbles to accommodate different dietary preferences and protein needs.
  • Quick Meal Prep Strategy: Chop vegetables and measure seasonings ahead of time to streamline cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.

Flavor Combos for Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

  • Mexican Fiesta Skillet: Replace dried thyme with cumin and chili powder. Add corn kernels and black beans for a southwestern flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Medley: Swap seasonings with oregano, rosemary, and za'atar. Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Spicy Asian Fusion: Introduce ginger, soy sauce, and sriracha. Sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top for an exciting Asian-inspired meal.
  • Harvest Autumn Skillet: Include diced apples and cranberries with cinnamon and nutmeg. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds for a seasonal variation.

Great Pairings for This Healthy Skillet Dish

  • Savor Turkey Skillet with Perfect Pairings
  • Crisp White Wine Complement: Opt for a light, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the richness of ground turkey and balances the sweet potato's earthiness, creating a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's warm spices.
  • Fresh Herbal Side Salad: Prepare a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, adding bright, peppery notes that contrast the skillet's hearty flavors and provide a light, crisp texture to complement the meal's warmth.
  • Rustic Whole Grain Bread: Serve crusty sourdough or multigrain bread to soak up the delicious pan juices, offering a satisfying textural element and additional nutty undertones that enhance the overall dining experience.

How to Store Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Right

  • Transfer leftover skillet to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring freshness and maintaining flavor integrity.
  • Portion cooled skillet into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2-3 months for convenient future meals.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed skillet in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through completely.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.

Answers to Your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or lean ground beef work perfectly as substitutes in this skillet recipe.

  • How do I prevent sweet potatoes from becoming mushy?

Cut sweet potatoes into uniform, small cubes and avoid overcooking. Stirring occasionally helps maintain their texture.

  • Is this recipe considered healthy?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is lean protein, sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, and the dish is packed with vegetables and nutrients.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy?

Sure! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce during seasoning to increase the heat level according to your preference.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty ground turkey and sweet potato skillet delivers comfort and nutrition in one delightful pan. Packed with lean protein and wholesome vegetables, this simple meal promises satisfying flavors you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Vegetables and Extras:

  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice sweet potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  2. Finely chop onion, mince garlic, and dice bell pepper, preparing all vegetables before initiating the cooking process.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and ready for sautéing.
  4. Add ground turkey to the hot skillet, breaking it into small crumbles and cooking for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink.
  5. Incorporate chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until vegetables become translucent and slightly softened.
  6. Sprinkle all seasonings – salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme – directly over the meat mixture, stirring to distribute evenly.
  7. Add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with turkey and vegetables, allowing potatoes to begin caramelizing.
  8. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low, simmering for 10-12 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
  9. Uncover and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate and enhance flavor concentration.
  10. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

  • Select lean ground turkey to reduce overall fat content and create a healthier one-pan meal.
  • Dice sweet potatoes consistently to guarantee uniform cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of brightness and added nutritional value, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
  • Customize the recipe by adding additional vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color variation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star