Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Name: Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, 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

Published: May 12, 2025

by Sofia

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Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful and nutritious one-pan meal that brings together ground turkey, sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and smoky spices. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it suitable for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: A simple one-pan recipe means less cleanup time and more time to enjoy your meal.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cumin adds depth to this hearty dish.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Ground turkey and sweet potatoes provide essential nutrients, making this a healthy option.
Versatile Meal: You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have at home, adapting it to your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan: Ideal for even cooking and easy food release, making the skillet perfect for one-pan meals.
Sharp knife: Essential for quickly chopping vegetables without hassle or injury.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning, which is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your dish.

Ingredients

A nutritious one-pan meal combining ground turkey with sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and smoky spices. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, 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

How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.

Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 10 minutes until they are starting to soften. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey into the skillet. Break it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until it turns browned.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Remaining Vegetables

Finally, add the chopped bell pepper and spinach. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is tender. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Serving Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a breeze, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights. This one-pan meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Fresh Green Salad

A light and crisp salad adds freshness, balancing the hearty flavors of the skillet. Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado slices offer a rich texture that complements the spices in the dish. Serve them on the side or on top for added creaminess.

Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty bread is great for mopping up the flavorful juices from the skillet. Opt for whole grain or sourdough for added flavor.

Quinoa or Rice

Serve with fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up the savory juices. This option adds extra fiber and makes the meal more filling.

Greek Yogurt

A dollop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast and creaminess that enhances the overall flavor. It’s a healthier alternative to sour cream.

Lemon Wedge

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and enhances its flavors. Serve lemon wedges alongside for guests to add as desired.

How to Perfect Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

To make your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet even better, keep these tips in mind. These simple adjustments can enhance flavor and texture.

Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices make a significant difference in taste.
Don’t overcook: Cook sweet potatoes until just tender; they should still have some bite.
Use lean turkey: Ground turkey breast is lower in fat but still flavorful.
Experiment with spices: Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for an herbal twist.
Add more veggies: Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrients.
Store leftovers wisely: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for quick meals later in the week.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices to consider:

Steamed Broccoli
A healthy side that adds color and nutrients; simply steam until bright green and tender.
Roasted Cauliflower
Crispy roasted cauliflower brings a nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of potatoes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting touch; prepare them with butter and garlic for extra flavor.
Coleslaw
Crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast; use a vinegar-based dressing to keep it light.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These fries echo the sweet potato theme while adding crunch; toss them with olive oil and seasoning before baking.
Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; serve with butter and herbs for extra taste.
Couscous Salad
Light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes and feta complements the skillet nicely; dress it lightly with lemon juice.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and cheese make a vibrant addition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

Overcooking the Vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can lose their nutrients and flavor. Aim for a tender-crisp texture, especially with the sweet potatoes and bell pepper.
Not Seasoning Properly: Insufficient seasoning can make your dish bland. Always taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the flavors.
Using Lean Ground Turkey: While healthy, lean ground turkey can dry out quickly. Opt for ground turkey with a bit of fat for moisture and flavor during cooking.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish. Don’t skip the garnish; it elevates both presentation and taste.
Cooking at Too High Heat: Cooking on high heat may burn the ingredients before they cook through. Use medium heat to allow even cooking while developing flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Label with date for tracking freshness.

Reheating Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet.

Can I use other proteins instead of ground turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken or beef also work well in this skillet recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein used.

What vegetables can I add to my Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?

Feel free to add zucchini, carrots, or even kale for extra nutrition and flavor. Customize according to what you have on hand!

Is this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How do I make this dish spicier?

For added heat, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I substitute sweet potatoes with another type of potato?

Yes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can be used instead of sweet potatoes. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

Final Thoughts

The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is not just quick but also offers numerous customization options. You can mix in different veggies or spices based on your taste preferences. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, so give it a try today!