Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner recipe—Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet! This hearty, one-pan meal is a game changer for busy evenings. Packed with protein-rich ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, this healthy dinner recipe is not only delicious but also ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep. Let’s dive into why this sweet potato skillet recipe is about to become your go-to dinner solution.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a nutritious twist on classic skillet dinners. Inspired by Southern comfort food and modern healthy meal prep ideas, this dish is both satisfying and easy to customize. With the perfect balance of lean protein, complex carbs, and fiber-rich veggies, it’s a gluten-free, dairy-free meal that fits into various diets, including low-carb and Paleo.
Why You’ll Love It:
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup for busy weeknights.
- High-protein and fiber-packed: Keeps you full and energized.
- Meal prep-friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy ground turkey recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean, fresh, or thawed) – A lean protein powerhouse.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (½-inch cubes) – Adds natural sweetness and fiber.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Healthy fats for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that irresistible aroma.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color) – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Boosts nutrients.
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a smoky kick.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances flavors.
Optional Add-ins:
- Avocado slices – For creaminess.
- Red pepper flakes – For heat.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavors.
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet – Step by Step
Step1: Heat the Skillet
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even cooking.
Step2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for two to three minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step3: Cook Sweet Potatoes
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes. Cook for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
Step4: Brown the Turkey
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for five to seven minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Step5: Season and Mix
Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Step6: Add Vegetables
Add chopped bell pepper and spinach, cooking for another three to four minutes until the spinach wilts and the peppers soften.
Step7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top for brightness.
Helpful Tips for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Even Cutting: Dice sweet potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Batch Cooking: If your pan is small, cook the turkey separately to avoid overcrowding.
- Extra Creaminess: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or coconut cream before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It retains heat and gives the dish a nice sear.
- Layer Your Flavors: Add seasonings in stages for a more complex taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with cilantro, parsley, or green onions for brightness.
Serving Suggestions for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Serve with sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Pair with crusty sourdough bread or cornbread for a hearty meal.
- Turn into tacos: Scoop into warm tortillas with a sprinkle of cheese.
Nutritional Information for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
This skillet is packed with nutrients, making it a perfect healthy dinner:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 24g (High-protein meal)
- Carbohydrates: 25g (Complex carbs from sweet potatoes)
- Fiber: 6g (Great for digestion)
- Fat: 18g (Healthy fats from olive oil)
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A, C, and Iron
Storage and Leftovers for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave with a splash of broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken or even beef works well in this sweet potato skillet recipe.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a meal-prep-friendly dinner.
3. How do I make this dish low-carb?
Swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Try zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Related Recipes for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Lovers
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Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe – Easy Dinner Idea
-
Scallion Chicken Recipe – Easy Chicken Stir Fry
Conclusion – Try This Delicious Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Today!
The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is everything you need in a healthy dinner recipe: quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder will become a staple in your kitchen.
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Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe – Quick Dinner Idea
Description
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner recipe—Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet! This hearty, one-pan meal is a game changer for busy evenings. Packed with protein-rich ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, this healthy dinner recipe is not only delicious but also ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep. Let’s dive into why this sweet potato skillet recipe is about to become your go-to dinner solution.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean, fresh, or thawed) – A lean protein powerhouse.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (½-inch cubes) – Adds natural sweetness and fiber.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Healthy fats for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that irresistible aroma.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color) – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Boosts nutrients.
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a smoky kick.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances flavors.
Optional Add-ins:
- Avocado slices – For creaminess.
- Red pepper flakes – For heat.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavors.
Instructions
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even cooking.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for two to three minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes. Cook for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for five to seven minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Add chopped bell pepper and spinach, cooking for another three to four minutes until the spinach wilts and the peppers soften.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top for brightness.
Equipment

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- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It retains heat and gives the dish a nice sear.
- Layer Your Flavors: Add seasonings in stages for a more complex taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with cilantro, parsley, or green onions for brightness.