Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is comfort food done right — hearty, healthy, colorful, and packed with flavor in every bite. Juicy ground turkey, soft sweet potatoes, and a vibrant mix of veggies all come together in one skillet for a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of a need to make something fast, filling, and family-approved using whatever I had in the fridge. I tossed together some ground turkey, leftover sweet potatoes, a can of beans, and a handful of spices — and magic happened. It’s now a staple in my rotation. The best part? It tastes even better the next day. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, even on the busiest days.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Skillet meals have long been a go-to for home cooks around the world. They’re efficient, flavorful, and easy to clean up. This particular combination of ground turkey and sweet potatoes draws inspiration from Southwestern and Tex-Mex flavors — think warm spices, vibrant peppers, and hearty beans. It’s a modern twist on a hash or stir-fry, bringing together lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and cozy spices in one sizzling pan.

Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This is one of those recipes that makes dinner feel like less of a chore and more of a celebration.

Versatile: Serve it on its own, over rice, in tortillas, or even with eggs for breakfast.

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and seasonal veggies.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with just one pan.

Customizable: Switch up the veggies, beans, or protein based on what you have.

Crowd-Pleasing: Bold flavors and melty cheese make it a hit for all ages.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

Great for Leftovers: Perfect for meal prep or turning into wraps and bowls.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get the most flavor and texture, keep these insider tips in mind:

• Dice sweet potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook uniformly and stay tender, not mushy.
• Brown the turkey well: Let it sear instead of constantly stirring, to build flavor.
• Use a large skillet: You want enough space for everything to cook without steaming.
• Add spices in layers: Blooming them with the meat enhances aroma and depth.
• Finish with cheese and cilantro: Adds creaminess and a fresh herby contrast.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

No fancy gadgets required — just the essentials for skillet success.

Large skillet or cast iron pan: To cook everything in one place with good heat retention.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring without scratching the pan.
Cutting board and sharp knife: To prep the veggies quickly and safely.
Measuring spoons and cups: For seasoning and layering ingredients.
Can opener: To easily access the tomatoes, beans, and green chiles.
Cheese grater (optional): If shredding your own cheese.

Ingredients in Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This colorful cast of ingredients creates a balanced, bold, and crave-worthy dish.

1. Bell Peppers: 2, diced (red and green). Add crunch, color, and sweetness.
2. Onion: 1, chopped. Provides aromatic depth and base flavor.
3. Ground Turkey: 1 lb. Lean protein that absorbs spices beautifully.
4. Sweet Potatoes: 2–3 (about 4 cups), diced. A naturally sweet, hearty veggie that balances the savory.
5. Corn Kernels: 1 cup. Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
6. Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz.), drained and rinsed. A fiber-rich, hearty addition.
7. Diced Green Chiles: 1 can (4 oz.). Adds mild heat and Southwestern flair.
8. Fire Roasted Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz.). Smoky, tangy base for the skillet.
9. Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon. Adds warmth and depth.
10. Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Earthy and aromatic.
11. Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Brings a smoky, slightly sweet kick.
12. Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Balances the bold spices with herbal notes.
13. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Enhances flavor without overpowering.
14. Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon. Layers more savory flavor.
15. Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon. To bring all the flavors together.
16. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon. Adds a subtle bite.
17. Shredded Cheese: 1 to 1½ cups. Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully.
18. Chopped Cilantro: ⅓ cup. For a bright, fresh finish.
19. Olive Oil: 2–3 tablespoons. Used for sautéing and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to improvise? These swaps work great:

Ground Turkey: Use ground chicken or beef instead.
Sweet Potatoes: Try butternut squash or regular potatoes.
Black Beans: Pinto or kidney beans work just as well.
Corn: Frozen, fresh, or canned are all fine.
Diced Green Chiles: Substitute with chopped jalapeños for more heat.
Shredded Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sweet Potatoes: These nutrient-rich tubers bring natural sweetness, fiber, and color to the dish. They also hold their shape well when sautéed, making them perfect for skillet meals.

Fire Roasted Tomatoes: These canned beauties add depth, smokiness, and a slight tang that helps balance the hearty ingredients.

Instructions for Making Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Now let’s bring it all together into one hearty, soul-warming skillet meal.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Push the turkey mixture to the side and add a bit more oil if needed. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Stir in corn, black beans, green chiles, fire roasted tomatoes, and all the spices. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Cover and cook on medium-low for 10–12 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Sprinkle cheese over the top. Cover for 2 minutes to melt. Then add chopped cilantro before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm, right out of the skillet. It’s great on its own or paired with tortillas, rice, or a crisp salad.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish is a beautiful mix of textures — tender sweet potatoes, juicy turkey, creamy beans, and gooey melted cheese. The corn adds little pops of sweetness, while the spices create a bold, smoky flavor that makes every bite deeply satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep your skillet meals stress-free and tasty with these extra tips:

• Dice everything the same size so it cooks evenly.
• Add a splash of broth if the skillet gets too dry while simmering.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end — some like it spicier, others milder.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common skillet mistakes:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan — give ingredients space to caramelize.
• Avoid undercooked potatoes by covering the skillet during the simmer.
• Don’t skip the spices — they bring the whole dish to life.
• Avoid stirring too often while browning the turkey — let it sear.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This skillet meal is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead, let it cool, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well — portion it into freezer bags or containers and reheat in a skillet or microwave. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or cilantro to revive it before serving.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Serve it straight from the skillet with warm tortillas, over a bowl of rice, or alongside a crisp green salad. Top with avocado slices, sour cream, or hot sauce for even more flavor. It also makes a hearty filling for stuffed peppers or quesadillas.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got extra? Transform it into something new:

• Stuff into bell peppers and bake for 20 minutes.
• Turn into taco filling or burrito bowls.
• Mix with scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
• Add to a wrap with spinach and cheese for an easy lunch.

Additional Tips

• Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Use rotisserie chicken instead of ground turkey for a faster version.
• If making dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a vegan blend.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in a cast iron skillet garnished with cilantro, avocado slices, and a drizzle of crema. Add a wedge of lime on the side and serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips. The colorful presentation and rustic charm make it dinner-party worthy.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Chipotle Version: Add 1 tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce.
• Southwestern Breakfast Skillet: Crack a few eggs on top and bake until set.
• Tex-Mex Casserole: Layer into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake.
• Vegan Version: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles and skip the cheese.
• Mediterranean Twist: Swap spices for oregano, thyme, and lemon zest.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use ground beef instead?

Yes! Ground beef, chicken, or even sausage work great.

Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely — just skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q4: What if I don’t have sweet potatoes?

Butternut squash or even Yukon potatoes are great substitutes.

Q5: Is this dish spicy?

Not too much — it’s flavorful with a mild kick. You can adjust the spice to taste.

Q6: Can I use frozen veggies?

Yes! Just thaw and drain them before adding to avoid extra moisture.

Q7: Do I have to use fire roasted tomatoes?

Regular diced tomatoes work fine, but fire roasted adds more depth.

Q8: How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Q9: Can I make it in advance?

Yes. It reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep.

Q10: What can I serve it with?

Tortillas, rice, quinoa, salad, or even a fried egg on top.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is everything you want in a weekday dinner — bold, satisfying, and full of nourishing ingredients. It’s the kind of meal that gets better with every bite and has everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, this skillet will be on repeat in your kitchen.

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