Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Looking for a hearty, healthy, and one-pan dinner that’s both quick and satisfying? This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet has you covered. Packed with lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant veggies, it’s a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. With a mix of savory and subtly sweet flavors, this dish is as comforting as it is wholesome.

This skillet meal is a go-to recipe when you need something filling and balanced. Lean ground turkey adds protein, sweet potatoes provide complex carbs and natural sweetness, and the colorful vegetables bring fiber and nutrients to the table. A simple blend of herbs and spices gives the dish depth without overpowering its natural flavors. Best of all, this recipe is extremely adaptable—use what you have on hand, add more spice, or bulk it up with extra greens or grains. It’s Whole30 and paleo-friendly, and it’s perfect for meal prep or a no-fuss dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-pan meal with minimal cleanup.
2. Healthy and balanced—protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish.
3. Naturally gluten-free and easy to make paleo or Whole30.
4. Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
5. Great for leftovers and meal prep.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey
• Sweet potatoes
• Bell peppers
• Red onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• Use a different protein: Ground chicken or beef works great too.
• Cheesy twist: Top with shredded cheese and broil until melted.
• Add beans or corn: For a Southwest-inspired flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Covering the skillet helps them cook faster.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped red onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Ground Turkey

Push veggies to the side and add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.

Step 4: Season

Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors blend.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and turkey is fully cooked, taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cut sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Cover the skillet to steam the sweet potatoes and reduce cooking time.
• Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for best results.
• Don’t overcook the turkey—it can dry out quickly.
• Add a splash of broth or water if the skillet becomes too dry.

How to Serve

This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it over cauliflower rice, brown rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado on top for extra creaminess. It’s great for breakfast with a fried egg on top or as a filling for stuffed peppers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

2. Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional—leave the skins on for more texture and fiber.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils as a meat substitute.

4. How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written, but you can adjust the heat with chili powder or hot sauce.

5. What’s the best skillet to use?

A large nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.

6. Can I make it in advance for meal prep?

Absolutely—this meal holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

7. Is this Whole30 or paleo-friendly?

Yes, just make sure your spices and ingredients are compliant.

8. Can I add cheese?

Definitely—top with shredded cheese and broil for a cheesy twist.

9. How do I make it more filling?

Serve it over grains like rice or quinoa or top with an egg.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Conclusion

The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a delicious, wholesome meal that’s quick to make and easy to love. With its balance of protein, fiber, and complex carbs, it’s a feel-good dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a healthy weeknight dinner, this one-pan wonder checks all the boxes—nutritious, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Try it once, and you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation in no time.

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