Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight

Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight

Looking for a hearty, healthy, and downright delicious meal that comes together in one pan? This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight checks all the boxes! It’s a vibrant combination of lean ground turkey, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, and a medley of spices that deliver comfort and flavor without compromising your wellness goals. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.


Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this flavorful skillet:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean, 93% or 99%)
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice
  • Avocado slices

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

  1. In the same skillet, add another 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through.
  3. Season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Toss in the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

  1. Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
  3. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the skillet hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. Enjoy this wholesome, one-pan meal!


Tips for Success

  • Dicing Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Pre-Cooking Sweet Potatoes: If you’re in a rush, microwave the sweet potato cubes for 3–4 minutes before sautéing to cut down cooking time.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Use a large skillet to give the ingredients room to brown rather than steam.
  • Make It Your Own: Add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked skillet in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top before serving.
  • Mexican-Inspired: Swap spinach for black beans and add a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex vibe.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ground turkey with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based ground meat.

Nutrition Details

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 280mg

FAQ

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and has a similar flavor profile.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Broccoli, zucchini, and carrots are all great additions.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this dish is completely gluten-free. Just double-check your spices to ensure there are no hidden additives.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Simply skip the cheese garnish or yogurt topping, and you’ve got a dairy-free meal.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, frozen sweet potato cubes can save prep time. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.

Discover this easy and delicious Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet recipe! Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, it’s perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or meal prep.