Are you on a quest for a weeknight dinner solution that checks all the boxes? One that is quick, delicious, healthy, and requires minimal cleanup? Look no further than this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary game-changer. This one-pan wonder marries the savory goodness of lean ground turkey with the naturally sweet and vibrant sweet potatoes, creating a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and incredibly nutritious.
The Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet comes together with little hassle. Ditch the complicated recipes and embrace the simple elegance of this skillet meal, ready in under an hour and bursting with goodness. This is the perfect Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet for those craving flavour, and ease of recipe! If you’re seeking more inspiration for fast, healthy, and flavorful meals, check out our [One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies]. Get ready to redefine your dinner routine with this exceptional Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet!
the Ingredients:
The secret to an exceptional Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet lies in the quality and balance of your ingredients. Here’s a detailed list, complete with tips for selecting the best: To better understand the benefits of Turkey, the American Heart Associations details them very well here [Turkey – American Heart Association].
Ground Turkey: 1.25 pounds, lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher recommended). Opt for organic, pasture-raised turkey if available for optimal flavor and health benefits. The leaner the turkey, the less grease you’ll need to drain. Sourcing lean Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet has the most benefit.
Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes. Choose sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes. Jewel or Garnet varieties provide excellent sweetness and vibrant color. Make sure it is perfectly sized for the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Yellow or white onions work well, adding a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Bell Pepper: 1 large (any color), chopped. Adds not only color and visual appeal, but also a satisfying crunch and a subtle sweetness. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers tend to be sweeter than green. Mix the colours up to enhance the flavour and look of the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent aroma and flavor that enhances the entire dish. Don’t substitute with garlic powder for this particular recipe!
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. This will aid the taste and finish of the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the salt content. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon. Adds warmth and a subtle kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Adjust the amount to your personal preference.
Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Cumin brings an earthy, smoky depth to the dish.
Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the smoky notes and adds a beautiful reddish hue.
Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon. Provides a subtle, savory, Italian-inspired flavor.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances and balances all the other flavors. Sea salt or kosher salt are recommended.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of warmth and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.
Optional Toppings: A great Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet can have a variety of things such as Chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are all excellent choices), lime wedges, salsa, Greek yogurt. This will make it flavourful for all!.
A Step-by-Step Guide:
Crafting this delicious and healthy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is easier than you think. Just follow these simple, step-by-step instructions:
Sauté the Aromatics: Building the Flavor Base: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Watch closely to prevent the garlic from burning. Make sure that it is well cooked in preparation for the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Brown the Turkey: Adding Savory Depth: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish lean and healthy. Break up the pieces to ensure best results in making the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Incorporate the Sweet Potatoes: The Foundation of Sweetness: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey and vegetables. Ensure that the sweet potatoes are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
Simmer and Steam: Unlocking the Flavors: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This steaming phase is crucial for tenderizing the sweet potatoes in the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Perfecting the Flavor Profile: Taste the skillet mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cumin to suit your personal preferences. The flavour should all be mixed together when making the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet.
Serve and Enjoy: The Final Flourish: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, and lime wedges.
Pro Tips:
Want to transform your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet from good to extraordinary? Follow these insider tips and tricks:
Uniform Dicing is Key: Ensure the sweet potatoes are diced into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and consistently. This ensures to enhance the texture and flavour of the dish!
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a large batch of Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet, cook the turkey and vegetables in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can result in steaming instead of browning.
Unlock Maximum Flavor with Spice Bloom: To maximize the flavor of your spices, toast them in the dry skillet for 1-2 minutes before adding the oil and vegetables. This will release their essential oils and create a more complex flavor profile.
Add Heat with Purpose: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno pepper (with seeds removed for less heat) to the skillet.
Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or thyme can add a bright and flavorful touch to the dish. Add the herbs just before serving to preserve their flavor and aroma.
Toppings are Your Canvas: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to customize your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet. Sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, salsa, Greek yogurt, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of hot sauce all make delicious additions.
Cast Iron for Flavor Depth: Using a cast iron skillet can enhance the flavor of the dish and create a beautiful sear on the turkey and sweet potatoes.
Spice layering: Add spices prior to Ground Turkey being added, or vegetables, to ensure flavour is on the bottom, middle and top of the dish!
Conservation and Storage:
Leftover Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Here’s how to ensure it stays fresh:
Cool Completely: Allow the skillet mixture to cool completely before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy.
Airtight Seal: Transfer the cooled skillet mixture to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Reheating with Care: Reheat the skillet mixture in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture of the sweet potatoes. For best results, consume within 2-3 months. Be sure to use the proper heating elements.
Creative Variations:
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are some delicious and exciting variations to try:
Black Bean and Corn Skillet Fiesta: Add a can of black beans (rinsed and drained) and a can of corn (drained) to the skillet for a Southwestern-inspired flavor party.
Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Skillet: Add a bag of fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the skillet for a light and flavorful Mediterranean twist.
Smoky Chipotle Sweet Potato Skillet: Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped) to add a smoky and spicy depth to the dish. Start with one pepper and add more to taste.
Exotic Curried Sweet Potato Skillet: Use curry powder, turmeric, and ginger (freshly grated) to create a warm and aromatic curried skillet. Add a can of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Hearty Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet: Substitute the ground turkey with ground beef (lean) for a richer and more substantial dish.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Skillet: Add sliced mushrooms and fresh spinach to the skillet for a earthy flavour.
Add a delicious sauce Add a BBQ, Chipotle, or honey garlic sauce to further enhance the flavour.
Serving Suggestions:
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:
Quinoa or Brown Rice Base: Serve the skillet mixture over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious and fiber-rich meal.
Lettuce Wrap Delight: Spoon the skillet mixture into crisp lettuce cups (Bibb or butter lettuce work well) for a light, refreshing, and low-carb option.
Taco or Burrito Filling: Use the skillet mixture as a flavorful and healthy filling for tacos or burritos. Top with your favorite taco toppings.
Avocado Toast Upgrade: Top avocado toast with the skillet mixture for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or lunch.
Side Salad for Balance: Serve with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the skillet.
Combine with Greek Yogurt: Combining this dish with Greek Yogurt will further enhance the level of protein!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen sweet potatoes in this recipe to save time?
A: Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. Thaw them slightly before adding them to the skillet to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I substitute a different type of ground meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef (lean), ground chicken, or ground pork instead of ground turkey. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! You can make the skillet mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Q: How can I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the skillet during cooking?
A: Stir the skillet mixture occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed. Using a non-stick skillet can also help.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, kale, or spinach to customize the dish to your liking.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute the ground turkey with crumbled plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan version. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Conclusion:
The Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of simple, healthy, and delicious cooking. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and satisfying flavors make it a must-have in your culinary arsenal. With just one skillet and a handful of readily available ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. The Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile dish. Say goodbye to dinner dilemmas and hello to the delicious simplicity of this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet – your new weeknight go-to!
PrintGround Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
A quick, delicious, and healthy one-pan meal featuring lean ground turkey and naturally sweet, vibrant sweet potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.25 pounds lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in diced sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For best results, dice sweet potatoes evenly and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking. Add spice variations or toppings to customize!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: ground turkey, sweet potato, skillet meal, healthy dinner