Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This recipe is easy to make, filling, and ready in just 20 minutes. The combination of ground turkey and sweet potatoes creates a nutritious meal with plenty of protein and fiber. It is made in one skillet for easy cleanup and can be customized with your favorite toppings and spice levels. The creamy salsa sauce adds extra flavor and ties everything together perfectly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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
1/3 cup sour cream
1/3 cup salsa
Directions
Place the diced sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 5 minutes. Carefully remove and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and salsa to make the sauce. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until only a little pink remains. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
Add the cooked sweet potatoes, black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is fully cooked.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Allow the cheese to melt.
Top with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and the prepared salsa sauce. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different flavor.
Add corn or bell peppers for extra vegetables and texture.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier version.
Top with avocado slices or fresh cilantro for added freshness.
For a lower-carb option, replace the sweet potatoes with cauliflower.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you enjoy extra heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the skillet mixture in a pan over medium heat until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes.
Store the sauce separately when possible for the freshest flavor.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skillet mixture ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
Do I have to microwave the sweet potatoes first?
Microwaving helps them cook faster, but you can also sauté them longer in the skillet until tender.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best texture, but canned may work in a pinch.
What type of salsa works best?
Any salsa you enjoy will work, including mild, medium, or spicy varieties.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild smoky heat from the chipotle chili powder, but it is not overly spicy.
Can I add rice to this skillet?
Yes, cooked rice can be stirred in to make the meal even more filling.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with tortilla chips, a green salad, or warm tortillas.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, the cooked skillet mixture freezes well for up to 2 months.
How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
Avoid overcooking the turkey and remove the skillet from heat once fully cooked.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful meal that is perfect for busy evenings. With tender sweet potatoes, seasoned turkey, black beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this one-pan recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
