Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. This hearty one-pan meal combines ground turkey with sweet potatoes and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s not only nutritious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy this tasty skillet anytime you need to whip up a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cumin brings a delicious depth.
- Healthy Ingredients: Ground turkey and sweet potatoes provide lean protein and essential nutrients.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, you can enjoy it on its own or serve it over grains.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for leftovers during the week!
Tools and Preparation
To create your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents food from sticking, making cleanup easy.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for quick and precise chopping of vegetables.
- Spatula: Ideal for stirring and serving your delicious skillet meal without scratching your cookware.
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
Spices and Greens
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Step 1: Heat the Oil
- In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes
- Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet.
- Stir well and cook for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet.
- Break it apart using your spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
Step 4: Add Spices
- Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Finish with Vegetables
- Add the chopped bell pepper and spinach to the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
By following these steps, you will have a delicious Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet ready in no time! Enjoy this healthy dinner option that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, here are some serving suggestions.
With Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Cilantro: Add cilantro for a fresh, zesty kick that complements the spices.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Brown Rice: Serve the skillet over brown rice for added fiber and a nutty taste.
- Quinoa: Use quinoa for a protein-packed base that pairs well with the dish.
Topped with Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Add slices of avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Guacamole: A spoonful of guacamole gives an extra layer of flavor and richness.
With a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the skillet.
- Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, serve with a Caesar salad for crunch and flavor.
In Tortillas
- Wraps: Spoon the mixture into whole wheat tortillas for delicious wraps.
- Tacos: Make tacos by adding toppings like salsa and cheese for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
To ensure your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices enhance the flavor significantly.
- Dice Evenly: Cut sweet potatoes and other veggies into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to adjust spices according to your preference.
- Cook in Batches: If your skillet is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even browning.
- Let It Rest: Let the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Experiment with Veggies: Try adding different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side adds crunch and is quick to prepare.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a caramelized flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from the skillet.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds tanginess that balances the hearty flavors of the main dish.
- Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that offers creaminess without heavy calories.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and is great during summer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping ingredient prep: Not chopping vegetables beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Always prepare your ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Overcooking sweet potatoes: Cooking sweet potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tenderness but maintain some texture by checking them frequently.
- Using too much spice: Adding excessive spices can overpower the dish’s natural flavors. Start with smaller amounts and adjust as you go for better balance.
- Neglecting to season properly: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can result in bland food. Taste as you cook and season gradually to enhance flavors.
- Not including greens: Omitting spinach or other greens can make the dish less nutritious. Incorporating leafy greens adds vitamins and color, making it more appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet recipe:
What is the best way to customize Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
You can add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Additionally, try different spices such as chili powder or oregano for varied flavors.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and offers a similar taste profile while being just as versatile.
How do I ensure my sweet potatoes cook evenly?
Cut sweet potatoes into similar-sized pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate, avoiding undercooked or overcooked pieces.
What sides pair well with Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
Serve it with a fresh salad or whole grain bread for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can adapt it according to your taste preferences by changing up the veggies or spices. Give it a try for a quick weeknight dinner that your whole family will enjoy!

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is your go-to dish for busy weeknights, combining ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and fresh vegetables into a hearty one-pan meal. This quick-to-prepare recipe bursts with flavor from smoked paprika and cumin, making it both nutritious and satisfying for the whole family. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner, this skillet dish offers a delightful mix of textures while ensuring minimal cleanup. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a wholesome meal that’s sure to please!
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
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
- Stir in diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet; break apart with a spatula and brown for 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper; combine well.
- Finish by adding bell pepper and spinach; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg