Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

why make this recipe

Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of lean meat and nutritious vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still healthy. It’s filling, easy to make, and deliciously satisfying, making it a favorite for families and individuals alike. The combination of ground turkey and sweet potatoes offers a great balance of protein and carbohydrates, ideal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.

This skillet meal is also quite versatile. You can tweak the spice levels, swap ingredients, or even add more veggies to suit your taste. Plus, it only requires one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. Whether you are trying to feed picky eaters or simply want a simple dish to whip up quickly, this recipe hits all the right notes.

how to make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Making Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is straightforward, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup salsa

Directions

1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Start by microwaving the diced sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes to soften them. This step ensures that the sweet potatoes will cook through properly while they are sautéed in the skillet.

2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and salsa; set aside. This easy sauce adds a delicious creaminess and flavor to the final dish.

3. Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally and use a spatula to break it apart. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink.

4. Add Sweet Potatoes and Beans: Now, add the microwaved sweet potatoes, black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin to the skillet with the turkey. Stir everything together. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5 minutes, so the flavors can meld and everything heats through properly.

5. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts nicely.

6. Garnish and Serve: To finish, garnish the dish with sliced green onions and diced tomato. Serve warm, accompanied by the sour cream and salsa mixture you set aside earlier. This adds a refreshing twist to the rich flavors of the hearty skillet dish.

how to serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

This dish is best enjoyed warm right off the skillet. You can serve it as is or pair it with a slice of warm tortilla or some fluffy rice if you desire extra carbs. It’s also great for meal prep; you can portion it out into containers for lunch the next day. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it with a side of avocado or a simple side salad to add some fresh crunch.

When serving, dish out the turkey and sweet potato mixture generously onto plates. Drizzle the cream and salsa mixture on top for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t forget to remind your guests or family to mix it all together before digging in for the best experience!

how to store Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Storing leftover Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is very simple. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

If you’d like to store it longer, you can freeze the mixture. Place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Ground turkey skillet can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warm throughout.

tips to make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sweet potatoes and vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor. Frozen ingredients can work in a pinch but won’t have the same texture.

2. Adjust the Spiciness: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chipotle chili powder or opt for regular chili powder instead.

3. Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. You can toss them in along with the sweet potatoes for added nutrition and color.

4. Leaner Meat Options: If you want an even lighter meal, consider using ground chicken or ground tofu as a protein alternative.

5. Cheese Choices: While cheddar is delicious, you can also try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for different flavors. If you want to make it dairy-free, leave it out or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

6. Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can double the recipe and divide it into portions for easy lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

variation (if any)

While the original recipe is fantastic, feel free to get creative! Here are some variations to try:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra spicy twist.
• Tex-Mex Style: Include diced bell peppers and corn, then top with fresh cilantro for a Tex-Mex flavor.
• Greek Inspired: Swap the chipotle chili powder for dried oregano, and add some olives and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Vegan Option: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or tempeh, and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan-friendly take on this dish.
• Breakfast Skillet: Incorporate eggs by making small wells in the skillet and cracking a few eggs in. Cover and let them cook until the eggs are firm to your liking. This makes for a hearty breakfast option!

FAQs

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes if you’re short on time. However, you may want to cook them a little longer to ensure they’re tender before adding them to the skillet.

What can I serve with this dish?

Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with tortillas, over rice, or alongside a simple salad for added freshness.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it for storage.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you’d like a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chipotle chili powder. You can also substitute it with regular chili powder or even omit it entirely.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a great meal prep option. You can double the recipe and portion it out for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet recipe offers a delightful combination of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Ideal for busy nights, it covers all the bases from taste to health and is easily adaptable to suit your preferences. Enjoy this scrumptious dish soon, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!

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