Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

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Savor the harmony of sweet and savory with this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. Perfectly seared ground turkey is tossed with tender, caramelized sweet potatoes, infused with warming spices and a hint of freshness from chopped herbs. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers both comfort and nutrition.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy weekend lunch. With high protein from lean turkey and a hearty dose of complex carbs from the sweet potatoes, it fuels your body while satisfying your cravings. Each bite is a balance of earthy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors that make it an instant favorite.

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Ingredients for this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set everything aside so it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Brown the Turkey

Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the ground turkey. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Remove the turkey mixture and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fork-tender and caramelized on the edges.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the turkey mixture to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and serve hot. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add extra chili powder, a diced jalapeño, or red pepper flakes to bring up the heat level.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will deliver a similar texture and flavor.

What should I serve with this skillet?

It’s great on its own but pairs well with a side salad, steamed greens, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

You can substitute the turkey with crumbled tofu or tempeh, seasoned and sautéed the same way.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, just be sure they’re thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture while cooking.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are cooked?

They should be fork-tender and lightly browned on the edges for that perfect caramelized texture.

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