Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet in 35 Minutes!

Name: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet in 35 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to weeknight meal: the ground turkey sweet potato skillet. It’s hearty, it’s nutritious, and it comes together in just about 35 minutes! I can’t even express how much I love the combination of seasoned ground turkey with tender sweet potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it not only delicious but also a great option for keeping me full and satisfied.

ground turkey sweet potato skillet - detail 1

I remember the first time I made this dish. I was in a bit of a cooking rut, and I needed something quick and easy. I had some ground turkey and sweet potatoes in my fridge, and boom! This skillet meal was born. The vibrant colors of the sweet potatoes and bell peppers make it so inviting, and the smell that fills the kitchen while it cooks? Absolutely heavenly! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be a staple in your home too. You’re going to love how simple it is to whip up and how good it makes you feel.

Ingredients List

1 lb ground turkey: Look for lean ground turkey for a healthier option. This is the star of the dish, giving it a deliciously savory flavor.
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced: Peel and cube your sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. They add a delightful sweetness and a beautiful color to the skillet.
1 onion, chopped: A medium yellow or white onion works perfectly here. It brings a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an irresistible fragrance and a punch of flavor. Don’t skimp on this one!
1 bell pepper, chopped: Any color you like! I usually go for red or yellow for their sweetness, but green works too. They add crunch and color.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is for sautéing your veggies and turkey. It helps everything cook up beautifully and adds healthy fats.
1 teaspoon cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes wonderfully.
1 teaspoon paprika: I love using smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor, but sweet paprika works too. It adds a lovely color and subtle smokiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Adjust to your preference, and don’t be shy to taste as you go!
Fresh parsley for garnish: This brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness right before serving.

How to Prepare Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—just enough to get things sizzling!
Next, toss in 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté these for about 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Oh, the aroma that fills the kitchen at this point is just divine!
Now, it’s time to add in 1 lb of ground turkey. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once the turkey is browned, add in your 2 diced sweet potatoes and 1 chopped bell pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix in those vibrant colors and flavors.
Now, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir it all together so that the spices evenly coat the turkey and veggies. This is where the magic happens!
Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This will allow the sweet potatoes to become tender and soak up all those tasty flavors. Don’t forget to give it an occasional stir to keep things from sticking!
Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with some fresh parsley just before serving. It adds a beautiful touch and a pop of freshness!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to nutrition, this ground turkey sweet potato skillet packs a punch! Each serving is rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling and healthy option for any meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so they’re not set in stone. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the products you use for more precise information. Now, isn’t that a deliciously nutritious meal you can feel good about? Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This skillet meal comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground turkey and fiber from the sweet potatoes, this dish will keep you satisfied and energized!
Flavorful and Colorful: The combination of spices, fresh veggies, and sweet potatoes creates a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s absolutely gorgeous on the plate!
Versatile: You can easily customize this skillet with different vegetables or spices depending on what you have on hand. It’s a fantastic way to clean out your fridge!
Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can whip up a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that kids love, while the colorful veggies make it visually appealing for the little ones.

Tips for Success

Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure out your spices before you start cooking. This way, everything is ready to go when you need it, making the process smooth and stress-free.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Make sure to take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. Letting them soften and caramelize a bit brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your skillet.
Use a Large Skillet: Ensure you’re using a big enough skillet to give everything room to cook evenly. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which isn’t what we want!
Test for Tenderness: Keep an eye on those sweet potatoes! Check for doneness by piercing one with a fork. If it goes in easily, you’re good to go. If not, give them a few more minutes.
Feel Free to Experiment: Don’t hesitate to throw in other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even some corn. This dish is super adaptable, so play around with what you have!
Season to Taste: Remember, everyone’s palate is different, so adjust the seasoning as you cook. Taste along the way to find that perfect balance of flavors.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes it even more delicious!

Variations

One of the things I love most about this ground turkey sweet potato skillet is how versatile it is! You can easily tailor it to fit your mood, the season, or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

Different Veggies: Swap out the bell pepper or add in some fresh spinach, kale, or zucchini. These greens not only boost the nutrition but also add a lovely pop of color!
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. I love the heat, but adjust to your taste!
Herbs & Seasonings: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme for an added freshness. You can also use Italian seasoning or even taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Sweet Potato Alternatives: If you want to switch it up, use butternut squash or regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes. Each brings its unique flavor and texture!
Protein Options: While ground turkey is fantastic, you can swap it out for ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a meatless option.
Cheesy Goodness: For a decadent twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking. Let it melt for an ooey-gooey finish that’s hard to resist!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand. So go ahead, get creative, and make this skillet your own! You won’t be disappointed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers from your ground turkey sweet potato skillet are just as delicious the next day, so don’t hesitate to store them! Here’s how to keep your meal fresh and tasty:

Storing: Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will help keep the flavors intact and prevent any unwanted moisture. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well too! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay in the freezer for about 2–3 months.

When it comes time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze:

Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is your best friend! Just pop your serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it from drying out), and heat for about 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: For a more even reheating, I prefer the stovetop method. Just add a little splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat, toss in your leftovers, and stir occasionally until heated through. This keeps everything nice and moist!
Oven: If you have a bit more time, you can reheat in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place your leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.

Just a heads up, the sweet potatoes might soften a bit more after reheating, but they’ll still taste fantastic! Enjoy every last bite of this comforting meal, even on the second go-around!

FAQ Section

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While I love the lean quality of ground turkey, you can swap it for ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that you might want to drain some of the fat after browning it, as beef tends to be a bit richer.

What can I serve with this skillet dish?
This ground turkey sweet potato skillet is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, a simple green salad or some crusty bread would pair beautifully. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa for an extra boost of carbs!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it properly to maintain that delicious flavor!

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ground turkey sweet potato skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check your seasoning labels. It’s a great option for anyone looking for gluten-free meals!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or even corn. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed so everything cooks perfectly!

What are the health benefits of sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and immune function. For more information, you can check out this Healthline article.

What are the benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey is a lean protein that is lower in fat and calories compared to other meats. It provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. For more details, you can refer to this Medical News Today article.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.