Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

If you’re looking for a nutritious, easy, and delicious lunch meal, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect option. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and a mix of flavorful spices, this dish is a great choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to make the best Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, including key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, presentation ideas, creative variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal – Easy cleanup and minimal effort
High in protein – Lean ground turkey makes this meal satisfying
Nutritious and filling – Sweet potatoes add fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness
Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes
Customizable – Perfect for adding extra veggies or spices

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet plays an important role in creating a flavorful and well-balanced meal.

Ground Turkey

A lean protein that makes this dish hearty while keeping it healthy.
Absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for the honey garlic seasoning.

Sweet Potatoes

Naturally sweet, rich in fiber, and full of vitamins A and C.
Their soft texture pairs perfectly with the savory ground turkey.

Onion and Garlic

Onion adds depth of flavor, while garlic brings a bold, aromatic taste.
Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Bell Peppers

Provide color, crunch, and a mild sweetness.
Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants.

Spinach (Optional)

Adds an extra nutritional boost without overpowering the flavors.
Wilts beautifully into the skillet for added texture.

Olive Oil

Helps to sauté the vegetables and enhances their flavors.
A heart-healthy fat that improves texture and richness.

Seasonings (Paprika, Cumin, Salt, and Black Pepper)

Paprika adds a mild smokiness.
Cumin brings warmth and depth.
Salt and pepper enhance all the natural flavors.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth

Adds moisture to the skillet and prevents the sweet potatoes from drying out.
Helps blend all the flavors together.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients of “Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet”

1 pound ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Step-by-Step “Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet” Cooking Instructions with Expert Tips

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes for even cooking.
Dice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
Measure out the seasonings and broth for easy access.

Expert Tip: Cutting the sweet potatoes into small, uniform cubes helps them cook faster and evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Expert Tip: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir continuously.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Cook for about 5 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Drain any excess liquid if needed.

Expert Tip: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the turkey into small crumbles for even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Expert Tip: Cooking the spices with the turkey and sweet potatoes helps release their full flavor.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the broth and stir everything together.
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Expert Tip: If the sweet potatoes need more time to soften, add a little more broth and continue cooking for a few extra minutes.

Step 6: Add Bell Peppers and Spinach

Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 more minutes.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted (about 1 minute).

Expert Tip: Adding the peppers at the end keeps them slightly crisp for a better texture contrast.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.

Expert Tip: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end can enhance the flavors even more.

Presentation Tips

Serve the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet straight from the pan for a rustic look.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Pair with a side of avocado slices for added creaminess.

Creative Twists

Add cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or feta cheese on top for extra richness.
Make it spicy – Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Use different greens – Swap spinach for kale or arugula.
Try a different protein – Use ground chicken, beef, or even tofu for variety.

Pro Tip for Customization

For meal prep, divide the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet into airtight containers. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats well for quick lunches or dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make “Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet“ ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to eat.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this skillet?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for variety.

Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, white potatoes work well too, but sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and extra nutrients.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Swap the ground turkey for black beans, chickpeas, or lentils for a plant-based version.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a perfect combination of healthy ingredients, bold flavors, and easy preparation. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a healthy comfort food, this dish has it all.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal with minimal effort. Let me know how you customize yours!