Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

I absolutely love this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe because it’s a one-pan wonder that packs so much flavor without any fuss. Whenever I’m short on time but still want a hearty, healthy meal on the table, this skillet is my go-to. The way the sweet potatoes soften and mingle with the savory turkey—and that cheesy topping? Pure magic.

You’ll find that this recipe works beautifully for weeknight dinners or even meal prep lunches. It’s balanced, filling, and easy to customize, which makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like something you actually look forward to. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in vegetables and lean protein in one satisfying dish.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a cozy, well-rounded skillet meal. I always recommend using fresh veggies and quality turkey for the best flavor—and don’t underestimate the magic of a good olive oil.

• Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good-quality oil for richer flavor and healthier fats.
• Free-range extra-lean ground turkey: It’s lean but flavorful; feel free to substitute with grass-fed ground beef if you prefer.
• Garlic clove: Fresh minced garlic brings a punch of aroma and depth.
• Onions: Diced onions add sweetness and a bit of softness to the skillet.
• Yellow pepper: Gives color and a mild sweetness that balances the dish.
• Sweet potato: Diced sweet potato adds heartiness and a touch of natural sweetness that’s irresistible.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
• Red chili flakes (optional): Just a pinch can add a subtle kick if you like heat.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top—skip it if you’re Whole30 or Paleo.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish (optional but highly recommended).

Variations

I love to tweak this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe depending on the mood or pantry. Don’t be afraid to swap ingredients or add your favorite spices to make it your own.

• Spicy Twist: I’ve added extra chili flakes and a splash of hot sauce for a fiery version that my husband adores.
• Vegetable Boost: Sometimes I toss in chopped spinach or kale at the end for an extra pop of green and nutrients.
• Cheese Alternative: If mozzarella isn’t handy, shredded cheddar or even crumbled feta work beautifully.
• Protein Swap: Using ground chicken or turkey sausage adds different flavors while keeping it lean and tasty.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Turkey and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground turkey and minced garlic, breaking the meat up with a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally as you let it cook for about 5 minutes until the turkey is no longer pink and starts to brown in spots. This step creates a flavor base, and I always keep an eye to avoid overcooking and drying out the turkey.

Step 2: Add Onions and Peppers

Once the turkey looks good, toss in the diced onions and yellow peppers. Cook them down until the onions turn translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This softening releases sweetness that complements the turkey beautifully, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet along with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet with a lid. Lower the heat to medium and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sweet potatoes seem dry, I add a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of water to help them soften faster without burning.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

While the sweet potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top of the skillet. Pop it in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. This finishing touch adds a creamy, melty texture that just pulls everything together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven carefully and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top if you like. I love the pop of color and light herb flavor it adds—it feels like the perfect finishing kiss for this cozy skillet meal.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish with fresh parsley because it brightens the rich flavors, but you could also use chopped green onions or a sprinkle of feta for something tangy. For some extra creaminess, a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices on the side works wonders too.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish holds its own well, but if you want to serve it alongside greens, a simple mixed salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully without stealing the spotlight. Crusty bread or warm tortillas can also help you scoop every bit right off the pan.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, try serving portions in individual small skillets or ramekins—everyone loves that personal touch. During holidays, topping with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds adds crunch and makes the dish feel extra special without much effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they stay tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it makes fantastic next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

Freezing works great too—just cool it completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. When I’ve frozen it, I recommend skipping adding cheese beforehand; melt fresh cheese after reheating for optimal texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I usually warm leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. You can also microwave it covered, but the skillet method keeps the texture closest to fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe has become one of my comfort food staples because it’s simple, satisfying, and so easy to make week after week. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping meals for busy days ahead, I think you’ll find it’s a winner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Give it a try—it might just become your new favorite skillet dish too!

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