If you’re looking for a vibrant, comforting, and super nourishing dinner idea, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe has you covered in the most delicious way. It’s a colorful southwest-inspired one-pan wonder that brings together lean protein, sweet and tender sweet potatoes, and a lively blend of spices that make every bite a fiesta. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or something perfect for meal prepping, this skillet dish is packed with flavor and hearty ingredients that will satisfy your cravings without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to deliver a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. From the lean ground turkey that keeps things light yet filling, to the sweet potatoes that add a tender, slightly sweet bite, every component plays an essential role in this dish.
- 1 lb ground turkey 85%-93% lean: The star protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious spices.
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and diced into 1 inch cubes: Adds natural sweetness and a hearty texture that complements the turkey perfectly.
- 1/2 red bell pepper deseeded and chopped: Brings a pop of color and subtle sweetness for freshness.
- 1/2 green bell pepper deseeded and chopped: Adds crunch and a slightly grassy note to balance the dish.
- 1/4 onion diced: Provides a savory base flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes: Lends a smoky, charred depth that amps up the southwest flair.
- 6 oz corn: Adds a juicy sweetness and bite for textural contrast.
- 6 oz black beans: Boosts protein and fiber, making this skillet even heartier.
- 2 tsp cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin is essential for that classic southwest flavor.
- 2 tsp chipotle chili powder: Brings a smoky heat that makes the skillet truly pop.
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder: Offers a mild spiciness that ties all the seasonings together.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers a mellow garlic essence for added depth.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Supports the fresh onion with extra savory notes.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and layers of complexity.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese: Melts over the top for a gooey, indulgent finish.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for garnish: Brings bright herbaceous freshness at the end.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating a little avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring often to get a nice crumble and even browning. Once browned, scoop it out with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan, which is packed with flavor for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Sweet Potato
Drop in the diced sweet potatoes along with the red and green bell peppers and onion into the skillet. Stir constantly to coat everything in the flavorful fat and cook until the sweet potatoes become tender, which usually takes between 8 to 10 minutes. This step softens the vegetables just right and lets those natural sugars come out beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Turkey, Veggies, and Spices
Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet and add the can of fire roasted diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Sprinkle in the cumin, chipotle chili powder, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices coat the ingredients evenly, creating a harmonious, southwest-inspired flavor blend.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Garnish
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the skillet’s surface and cover with a lid. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible topping. Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro for an herbaceous zing that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped cilantro is a no-brainer when it comes to topping this skillet—it adds vibrant color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. You can also sprinkle some sliced green onions or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra bit of brightness that elevates the flavors further.
Side Dishes
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad or steamed rice to round out the meal. For a low-carb approach, serve alongside roasted or steamed veggies such as broccoli or cauliflower.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this skillet over warm corn tortillas with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to transform it into a filling taco bowl. Alternatively, load it into bell pepper halves and bake slightly for a colorful stuffed pepper dish that’s as tasty as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it even more delicious the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to evenly distribute any settled juices.
Freezing
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly and melt any hardened cheese. You can also microwave individual portions by covering loosely to trap steam, heating in short bursts until heated through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe and will absorb the southwest spices beautifully. Just be sure to use a leaner variety to maintain similar texture and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it a safe and wholesome option for those avoiding gluten.
How spicy is this dish?
The chipotle chili and chili powders deliver a gentle smoky warmth rather than intense heat, but you can always adjust the spice levels up or down according to your preference by modifying the amount of chili powder used.
Can I add other vegetables?
For sure! Feel free to stir in chopped zucchini, spinach, or even diced mushrooms to sneak in more veggies. Just add them during the sauté step so they cook through nicely.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! This one-pan recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it keeps well in the fridge and reheats quickly. It’s a flavorful choice that makes weekday lunches and dinners super easy.
Final Thoughts
Give this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe a try and discover how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking can come together to create a meal bursting with flavor, warmth, and healthfulness. It’s a dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate—perfect for busy nights or when you just want something wholesome and satisfying. I promise, once you make it, it could quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Print
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Southwest Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Combining lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, colorful bell peppers, and southwestern spices, it’s a hearty dish topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro for a satisfying finish.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey (85%-93% lean)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 1/4 onion, diced
- 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes (about 14.5 oz)
- 6 oz corn (fresh or frozen)
- 6 oz black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
Spices and Garnish
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Turkey: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and brown it while crumbling the meat with a wooden spoon. Once cooked through, remove the turkey from the skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced sweet potato, red and green bell peppers, and onion to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Return the browned ground turkey to the skillet. Add the fire roasted diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, cumin, chipotle chili powder, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer and Melt Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the skillet, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Southwest Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
- If you want it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicier chili powder.
- Use fresh corn if available, but frozen or canned corn works well too.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and makes great leftovers or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Southwest, TexMex
