Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Feast

I love making this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet because it’s a hearty and nutritious meal that comes together in just one pan! The combination of savory ground turkey and sweet potatoes makes for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite is packed with flavor, and I always feel good knowing I’m serving my family something wholesome. Plus, clean-up is a breeze, which is always a bonus after a long day in the kitchen!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:17:37.094Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of spices and sweet potatoes filled my kitchen and attracted my whole family. It was a hit! Using ground turkey not only makes it leaner but also allows the sweet potatoes to shine through with their natural sweetness. I highly recommend adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to cook the sweet potatoes until they are slightly crispy on the edges; it adds a wonderful texture to the skillet. Don't be afraid to throw in some greens at the end to boost the nutrition even further! It's a versatile recipe that adapts well to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients that provide plenty of vitamins
Quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight meal
One-pan simplicity means less clean-up and more family time

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The combination of savory ground turkey and sweet potatoes creates a delightful balance of flavors that is not only tasty but also wholesome. The richness of the turkey brings a satisfying umami depth, while the natural sweetness of the potatoes adds a subtle contrast. This fusion is further enhanced by adding spices like smoked paprika and cumin, elevating the dish from simple to sensational. Each ingredient plays a vital role, making sure every bite is a burst of harmony on your palate.

To create texture alongside the flavor, ensure the ground turkey is well-browned before adding in the vegetables. Not only does this step seal in the juices, but it also allows the meat to develop a slightly crispy exterior that adds to the overall mouthfeel. When cooking, keep an eye on the sweet potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not mushy. This will guarantee that they hold their shape and provide a pleasant contrast with the tender vegetables.

Customization and Variations

One of the great things about this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is its adaptability. If you have different vegetables on hand, feel free to substitute them for the bell pepper or onion. For example, zucchini or spinach can easily be added to the mix, giving the dish a boost of nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times; softer vegetables should be added later in the process to prevent them from becoming overcooked or too mushy.

For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a few red pepper flakes along with the spices. This will not only provide heat but can also enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Additionally, for a heartier version, try incorporating black beans or quinoa in the mix; they pair well with the existing ingredients and boost the protein content even further. Just keep in mind that if you add more bulk, you may need to increase your seasonings accordingly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Ground Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the turkey as it cooks.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Once done, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving. You can also substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef, depending on your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is ideal for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch at once and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This is an excellent time-saver for busy weekdays. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture and warmth without drying it out.

If you want to prepare the ingredients ahead of time, dice the sweet potatoes, chop the veggies, and mince the garlic a day in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge. This way, when it’s time to cook, all you need to do is heat the oil and toss everything into the skillet, cutting down on your overall cooking time significantly.

Storage and Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave a little room for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy a meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.

Keep in mind that while the dish will freeze well, the sweet potatoes might change texture slightly upon thawing. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider undercooking the sweet potatoes slightly before freezing so they hold up better during reheating. A touch of fresh parsley added after reheating can also help refresh the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with this skillet?

It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

→ Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or broccoli.