Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that comes together in a flash, then this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is just what you need! I absolutely adore this recipe because it’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make my heart happy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible!

It’s one of those meals that feels warm and comforting, reminding me of home-cooked goodness. Trust me, once you try this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet, it will quickly become a favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This skillet meal can be on your table in just 20 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and black beans, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the flavors in this dish. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep some of the ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker dinner option.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need for this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet in your pantry or local grocery store.

For the Skillet

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes (1 large)
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup salsa

Variations

One of the best things about this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is how flexible it is! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese alternatives: For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese substitutes.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by adding your diced sweet potatoes to a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to steam them nicely. Microwave on high for about 5 minutes. This step helps soften the sweet potatoes before they join the skillet, ensuring everything cooks evenly and quickly!

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While your sweet potatoes are cooking away, it’s time to mix up a quick sauce. Combine the sour cream and salsa in a small bowl. This sauce adds a delightful creaminess and flavor contrast when served on top of the skillet—trust me; you’ll want every bite!

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the ground turkey and start cooking it while crumbling it into smaller pieces. This should take about 5 minutes until you see just a hint of pink remaining. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off—nobody wants an oily dish!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for all those delicious flavors to come together! Add in those hot sweet potatoes along with black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until those sweet potatoes are soft and tender while ensuring that turkey is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Finish Off with Cheese & Toppings

Once cooked perfectly, remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top so it can melt beautifully into all that deliciousness. Finally, top off with sliced green onions and diced tomatoes. Serve immediately with that creamy sauce on the side—your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Creating a delicious Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is simple, but these tips will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Pre-cook sweet potatoes: Microwaving them first not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures they become tender without overcooking the turkey.
• Use lean ground turkey: Opting for 93% lean ground turkey keeps the dish healthier while still providing enough flavor and moisture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle chili powder or add your favorite spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Add veggies: Incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can boost nutrition and add extra color to your skillet.
• Store leftovers properly: Allow any leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps maintain freshness and flavor for your next meal.

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Serving this delightful skillet dish can be a fun way to impress your family or guests. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the spices in the dish.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the flavors in your skillet.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens the entire dish and enhances all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli makes for a nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch, balancing out the meal nicely.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements of your skillet dish.
• Mixed greens with vinaigrette: A fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette provides a light and zesty accompaniment to this filling meal.

Enjoy making this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet, knowing that you’re serving something quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is not only a quick meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled skillet into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen skillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts until hot.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I substitute ground turkey in the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option.

How can I make the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet spicier?

To add more heat to your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet, consider adding diced jalapeños or an extra pinch of chipotle chili powder during cooking.

What can I serve with the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet?

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I use different vegetables in my Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re enjoying it straight from the skillet or savoring leftovers throughout the week, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!