Introduction
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and fresh veggies. This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with nutrients and full of comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the mixture with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the chopped bell pepper and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender and the spinach is wilted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations
- Swap the Protein
If you prefer a different flavor profile, try swapping ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based ground meat. Each option provides a unique taste while maintaining the hearty nature of the dish. Ground chicken keeps it lean, beef adds richness, and plant-based proteins make it vegetarian-friendly. - Add More Veggies
Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and variety. These veggies cook quickly and pair well with the flavors in the skillet. You can also use frozen vegetables for convenience. - Spice it Up
For a bolder taste, add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper. These spices bring heat and enhance the smoky notes of the paprika and cumin. Adjust the spice level based on your preference.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor, vibrant color, and crisp texture.
- Dice sweet potatoes into small, even pieces to ensure faster and uniform cooking.
- Season generously with smoked paprika and cumin to bring out the rich, smoky flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Rice or Quinoa
Serve this skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or protein-packed quinoa to create a more filling meal. The grains absorb the flavorful juices, making each bite even more delicious. - Top with Avocado or Greek Yogurt
Add creamy avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a cool and creamy contrast. The avocado adds healthy fats, while Greek yogurt provides a tangy balance to the spices. - Serve with Warm Bread
A slice of warm crusty bread or a side of cornbread complements the skillet beautifully. Use the bread to soak up the savory juices, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Tips
- Dice Sweet Potatoes Evenly
To ensure they cook evenly, dice the sweet potatoes into small, uniform pieces. This step avoids undercooked chunks and creates a tender texture that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. - Cook in Batches if Necessary
If your skillet feels crowded, cook the ingredients in batches. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of browning, which impacts the overall flavor. A properly browned turkey and veggies enhance the dish’s depth. - Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish
Fresh parsley or even cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor to the finished skillet. Fresh herbs elevate the presentation and introduce a vibrant, slightly zesty note to the dish.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different protein instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based ground meat. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this skillet reheats wonderfully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, heat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. - What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. These add more color, texture, and nutrients while keeping the dish versatile. - How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option, this recipe delivers on taste, versatility, and simplicity. With endless ways to customize and serve, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Let me know if you’d like to enhance any part further!
PrintGround Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and fresh veggies. This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with nutrients and full of comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the mixture with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the chopped bell pepper and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender and the spinach is wilted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This skillet dish is easily customizable try swapping ground turkey with ground chicken or beef. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Ground turkey skillet, sweet potato recipe, healthy dinner