Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is the kind of wholesome, flavourful meal that proves healthy cooking can still feel indulgent. It is built around lean ground turkey, naturally sweet and hearty sweet potatoes, and a vibrant mix of aromatics and spices. Everything comes together in one skillet, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing but not time-consuming. The balance of savoury spices and subtle sweetness creates a comforting depth of flavour without being heavy. When I tested a dairy-free variation and swapped regular milk for almond milk in the finishing step, it added a lovely creaminess without weighing the dish down. This skillet is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or anyone looking for a satisfying, protein-rich option that reheats beautifully. It is simple, hearty, and endlessly adaptable.
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Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight: A Nutritious One-Pan Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and wholesome ground turkey and sweet potato skillet made with simple ingredients, offering a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and nutritious flavors for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add the onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the garlic, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Remove the lid and cook an additional 2 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- Stir in chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Top with avocado or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
- Use ground chicken instead of turkey if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground Turkey
Provides a lean yet flavourful protein base that absorbs spices well. It cooks quickly and remains tender when paired with moisture-rich vegetables.
Sweet Potatoes
Offer natural sweetness and a creamy texture once softened. They also help make the skillet more filling and nutritionally robust.
Onion
Adds depth and aromatic sweetness. As it softens, it enhances the savoury foundation of the dish.
Garlic
Essential for building a rich, fragrant base. Fresh garlic pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Bell Peppers
Introduce colour and a mild crispness, balancing the softer components of the skillet.
Olive Oil
Used to sauté the vegetables and turkey. It provides a clean, subtle flavour without overpowering the dish.
Paprika
Adds warm, smoky notes that complement the turkey and sweet potatoes.
Ground Cumin
Gives the dish a gentle earthiness and aligns well with the skillet’s savoury profile.
Salt and Black Pepper
Enhance the overall flavour and bring balance to the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Chicken Broth
Adds moisture for simmering, helping the potatoes soften while allowing the flavours to meld together.
Fresh Parsley
Provides a bright, herbal finish that lifts the richness of the skillet.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened and translucent, then stir in the garlic until fragrant. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin, ensuring the spices coat the meat evenly. Once the turkey is lightly browned, add the sweet potatoes and bell peppers, stirring to distribute them throughout the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and allow the sweet potatoes to cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove the lid and let any excess liquid reduce until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finish by stirring in fresh parsley. Rest the dish for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavours to settle.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Southwest Skillet Version
Add black beans, corn, and a dash of chili powder for a bolder, Tex-Mex style flavour.
Creamy Finish
Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for added richness.
Spicy Turkey Skillet
Use hot paprika or add red pepper flakes for heat.
Veggie-Loaded Version
Incorporate zucchini, spinach, or kale for increased fibre and colour.
Smoky BBQ Twist
Add a touch of barbecue seasoning or a spoonful of BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet character.
Curry-Infused Variation
Swap spices for curry powder and turmeric for a warmly spiced, aromatic twist.
Italian Style
Use Italian seasoning and finish with fresh basil for a lighter herb-driven flavour.
Low-Carb Adaptation
Replace sweet potatoes with diced cauliflower for a more carb-conscious skillet meal.
One-Pan Breakfast Skillet
Crack a few eggs over the finished dish and bake until set for a hearty breakfast version.
Almond Milk Finish
Splash in a small amount of almond milk at the end for gentle creaminess without dairy.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well and cooks similarly.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional; the skin is nutritious and softens during cooking.
Can I make this skillet ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and is excellent for meal prep.
How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and ensure enough broth is added to maintain moisture.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Can I make it spicier?
Add chili powder, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to increase heat.
Can I substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works perfectly and keeps the dish flavourful.
How do I thicken the mixture if it becomes too brothy?
Simmer uncovered until the excess liquid reduces.
Is almond milk a suitable substitute in this recipe?
Yes, I have tested it, and it adds subtle creaminess without altering flavour.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight is a versatile, nourishing, and flavour-rich meal that comes together effortlessly in one pan. Its balance of lean protein, hearty vegetables, and warming spices makes it suitable for any night of the week. Whether you keep it traditional or customise it with one of the suggested variations, this skillet delivers comfort, nutrition, and convenience in every serving. It is a reliable recipe you will return to time and time again.
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