A Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner. This one-pan meal combines ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables seasoned with smoky spices. It’s not only delicious but also nutritious, making it suitable for family dinners or meal prep. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, all while enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Protein
- For the Vegetables
- For Seasoning
- For Garnish
- How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
- Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes
- Step 3: Brown the Turkey
- Step 4: Season the Mixture
- Step 5: Finish with Vegetables
- How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- With Fresh Greens
- Topped with Avocado
- Complementary Sauces
- How to Perfect Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Best Side Dishes for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Reheating Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
- Can I customize the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
- How long does it take to prepare the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
- Is this recipe healthy?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is great for busy nights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from ground turkey and vitamins from sweet potatoes and spinach.
- Flavorful Spices: The combination of smoked paprika and cumin adds depth to every bite.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect on its own or served with a side salad for extra freshness.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Below are the essentials you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A sturdy skillet ensures even cooking and makes tossing ingredients easier.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
A nutritious one-pan meal combining ground turkey with sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and smoky spices. Perfect for busy weeknights.
For the Protein
- 1 pound ground turkey
For the Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
For Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes
Next, add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 10 minutes until they start to soften, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey into the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned throughout.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Vegetables
Finally, add in the chopped bell pepper and spinach. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet! It’s an easy way to bring healthy eating into your busy schedule while savoring delicious flavors.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Serving your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance this one-pan meal.
With Fresh Greens
- Mixed Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well and adds freshness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the skillet’s flavors.
Topped with Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Adding fresh avocado slices brings creaminess and healthy fats to the dish.
- Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole adds a flavorful twist that complements the spices in the skillet.
Complementary Sauces
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a splash of hot sauce can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Greek Yogurt: A spoonful of Greek yogurt offers creaminess and a tangy contrast to the savory dish.

How to Perfect Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
To achieve the best results with your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables boost flavor and nutrients. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to modify spices according to your taste. Add cayenne for heat or herbs for freshness.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes Thoroughly: Ensure sweet potatoes are tender; check with a fork before adding other ingredients.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a larger batch, use two pans. This allows even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporating additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can enhance nutrition and texture.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides protein and complements the dish well.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthy flavors that balance the sweetness of potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the skillet.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the richness of the turkey and sweet potatoes.
- Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice is an excellent base that soaks up flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side that pairs beautifully with this hearty skillet meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet can be quick and easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ingredient Measurement: Not measuring ingredients properly can lead to an unbalanced dish. Always use precise measurements for consistent results.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and cook just until tender for the best texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping spices may result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for a flavorful meal.
- Using Low-Quality Ground Turkey: Low-fat turkey can dry out during cooking. Opt for quality ground turkey to keep your skillet juicy and tasty.
- Skipping the Garnish: Neglecting to garnish can make the dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Portion it into smaller servings for easy reheating later.
Reheating Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
A Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a nutritious one-pan meal that combines ground turkey with sweet potatoes and fresh vegetables, seasoned with smoky spices.
Can I customize the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute vegetables like zucchini or kale based on your preferences. Feel free to adjust spices as well!
How long does it take to prepare the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
The total time is around 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals from fresh ingredients, making it a wholesome choice.
Final Thoughts
The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. With options for customization, you can create this hearty meal tailored to your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is your go-to one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty dish that combines ground turkey with tender sweet potatoes and colorful vegetables, all seasoned to perfection with smoky spices. This nutritious skillet meal is not only delicious but also versatile enough for family dinners or meal prep. Whether served on its own or paired with a fresh salad, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for approximately 10 minutes until they start to soften.
- Incorporate ground turkey into the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Season the mixture with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Finally, add bell pepper and spinach; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the skillet (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg