Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for fast family dinners. The combination of savory turkey, naturally sweet potatoes, smoky spices, and creamy sauce creates a balanced and comforting meal. It is also easy to customize with your favorite toppings and ingredients.
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 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. Cover them with a damp paper towel and 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 for serving.
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 until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is fully cooked.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Allow the cheese to melt.
Top with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and the prepared 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 with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra spice.
Add corn, bell peppers, or spinach for more vegetables.
Replace black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans.
Top with avocado slices, cilantro, or jalapeños for added flavor.
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. Add fresh toppings and sauce after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
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 before serving.
Do I have to microwave the sweet potatoes first?
Microwaving helps them cook faster, but you can also sauté them in the skillet until tender.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works very well in this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild heat from the chipotle chili powder, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cheese and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.
What can I serve with this skillet?
It pairs well with rice, tortillas, salad, or tortilla chips.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and corn all work great.
How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
Avoid overcooking the turkey and keep the skillet covered briefly after adding the cheese.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best texture, but canned can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or dinners.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a simple, wholesome, and flavorful meal that is perfect for busy days. With lean protein, hearty vegetables, and bold seasonings, this one-pan recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
