If you’re longing for a one-pan meal that’s hearty, healthy, and absolutely bursting with color and flavor, look no further than this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. Tender chunks of sweet potato, juicy ground turkey, a rainbow of veggies, and warm spices all come together in one skillet for a dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeknights or craving a dish that’ll wow your taste buds without a mountain of dishes, this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet delivers comfort with every forkful.

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple lineup of ingredients is exactly what gives the skillet its charm: each one plays a starring role in the overall flavor, presentation, or nutrition. There’s no unnecessary fuss here — just fresh, wholesome basics working perfectly in harmony.

Olive oil: The aromatic foundation for sautéing, adding a hint of richness and helping everything brown beautifully.
Ground turkey: Lean protein that keeps the skillet hearty and filling while absorbing all those savory spices.
Onion: Diced for sweetness and depth, creating that classic savory backbone.
Garlic: Minced to amplify aroma and infuse the whole dish with irresistible flavor.
Sweet potatoes: Pillowy bite-size cubes that add subtle sweetness and a gorgeous pop of orange.
Red bell pepper: For a hint of crunch, juicy flavor, and a vibrant red touch.
Ground cumin: Warm and earthy, this essential spice brings everything together.
Smoked paprika: Just a half teaspoon is all you need for gentle smokiness.
Chili powder: For a mild kick of heat and rich taste (add more if you like it spicy!).
Salt and black pepper: Don’t skip — they brighten up every bite.
Low-sodium chicken broth or water: Adds moisture, enhances flavor, and keeps things tender as it simmers.
Baby spinach: Wilted right at the end for a fresh, green finish and a nutrient boost.

How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Turkey

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground turkey. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, making sure to break it up with a spoon as it browns. The key here is to get a little color on the turkey, which boosts the flavor and texture of your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet right from the start.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the turkey is beautifully browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Give everything a good stir and let it all cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onion softens and becomes a little translucent. This step builds a flavor base that’s rich, savory, and fragrant — you’ll smell the magic happening already!

Step 3: Stir in Veggies and Spices

Now, it’s time to bring in the main characters: add your diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper, followed by the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly, making sure every bite gets coated with those warming spices, and watch how the mix immediately starts to look like a feast for the eyes.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Pour in the chicken broth or water, then cover the skillet. Let it all simmer together for about 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the sweet potatoes turn tender, the peppers soften up, and the flavors start weaving together in that signature Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet harmony. Make sure to check occasionally so nothing sticks, giving it a gentle stir as needed.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Serve

Uncover the skillet and add the baby spinach. Let it cook for just 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently as the greens wilt down into the mix. Once glossy and tender, give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy every cozy, colorful bite!

How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Garnishes

Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of green and a touch of bright, herbaceous flavor. A few slices of avocado can make every plate feel extra special, while a squeeze of lime lifts all those spices in the skillet. For a hint of heat and color, a pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick!

Side Dishes

This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is definitely a “front and center” kind of meal, but if you want a fuller spread, serve it alongside a simple mixed greens salad or fluffy cauliflower rice. Warm tortillas or a slice of rustic bread make it plenty satisfying — all those sauces and juices deserve to be sopped up!

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling the skillet mixture into roasted bell pepper halves for a fun, colorful presentation. You can also spoon it over baked sweet potatoes or transform it into meal prep bowls with brown rice and crunchy slaw. However you serve it, the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet shines when each ingredient gets the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet keeps like a dream! Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, perfect for meal preppers and next-day lunches.

Freezing

If you want to stock up for later, freeze portions in resealable freezer bags or containers. The dish holds up well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just label with the date so you know when to enjoy your next round of Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet goodness!

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. You can also microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between. Either way, everything stays tender and full of flavor — just like the day you made it.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! While turkey keeps this skillet light and lean, ground chicken or beef both work beautifully. Just keep in mind that beef will bring a bit more richness, and you may want to drain some excess fat after browning.

What’s the best way to make this dish spicier?

If you crave more heat, feel free to up the chili powder or mix in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes when you add the spices. You can also finish each serving with a dash of hot sauce for the perfect spicy kick!

Is this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet suitable for meal prep?

One hundred percent yes! This skillet actually tastes even better as the flavors sit, and it holds up beautifully when reheated. Package individual servings in storage containers for hearty, ready-to-go lunches all week long.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is endlessly customizable. Zucchini, corn, kale, or diced tomatoes all make great additions — just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender but not mushy.

Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as written. It’s a perfect fit if you’re cooking for dietary restrictions, and you won’t miss a thing in flavor or satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet a try — it’s the kind of weeknight recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and that promise of less cleanup, it’s a favorite for busy days or whenever you crave a big bowl of comfort. Happy cooking and enjoy every vibrant bite!

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

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4.5 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Packed with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and vibrant veggies, this dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Turkey Mixture:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey

Veggies:

1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, diced

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Others:

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
2 cups baby spinach

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Instructions

Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Add aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
Incorporate veggies: Stir in sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, seasonings, and broth. Cover and simmer until sweet potatoes are tender.
Add spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted.
Adjust and serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.