Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that’s every bit as hearty as it is vibrant, look no further than this irresistible Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet. Packed with the bold flavors of chipotle, the sweetness of roasted potatoes, and the creaminess of cheddar and sour cream, it’s a weeknight savior that feels as comforting as a home-cooked hug. You can have this comforting skillet ready in no time, making it perfect for busy nights or whenever you want a colorful, flavor-packed dish on the table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish shines because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that really bring out the best in each other. Each element adds its mark—whether that’s a punch of protein, a pop of color, or a lick of gentle heat—so don’t be tempted to skip any of these stars!

• Sour Cream: Gives a rich tang that beautifully balances the spices and sweet potatoes.
• Salsa: Adds zesty flavor and a little heat to the finishing sauce.
• Ground Turkey: The lean base that soaks up all the spices and provides protein power.
• Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness is the perfect foil to the smoky chipotle and savory turkey.
• Black Beans: Hearty, creamy beans make the skillet extra filling and add lovely color.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for drawing out and balancing all the flavors.
• Chipotle Chili Powder: Brings a sultry, smoky heat that ties everything together.
• Cumin: Adds warm, earthy undertones with every bite.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts over the top for an indulgent, gooey finish.
• Green Onions: Scatter on a fresh, oniony bite and a splash of color.
• Tomato: Diced tomato brings brightness and juiciness on top.

How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Start off with the sweet potatoes—speed things up by microwaving them. Place your diced sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and zap them for five minutes. This softens them just enough so they cook up perfectly in the skillet, shaving major time off your dinner prep. Carefully set them aside (they’ll be hot and steamy!) until you’re ready to toss them in.

Step 2: Whip Up the Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and salsa. This sauce is a marvel—cool, creamy, with just a touch of tang and heat—and it takes about 60 seconds to make. Set it aside for serving; you’ll want to drizzle it over the finished Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet for an irresistible finish.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add your ground turkey and break it up as it cooks. After about five minutes, when it’s nearly cooked but with just a hint of pink left, drain any excess fat. This ensures a lighter skillet without any greasiness, and it gives your dish the perfect flavor base to soak up all those wonderful spices.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now the fun part! Add in your prepped sweet potatoes, black beans, salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin. Give everything a good stir so the seasoning is evenly distributed. Let it cook for another five minutes, stirring occasionally. Your sweet potatoes should finish cooking and turn beautifully tender, while the turkey becomes juicy and enticing. Take the skillet off the heat and immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top. The residual warmth will melt it into gooey, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Top and Serve

Toss on the sliced green onions and diced tomato for a burst of freshness. Finally, finish each serving with a generous dollop of that creamy salsa sauce you made earlier. This last step gives your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet its signature flair—a medley of cream, spice, and crunch that’s absolutely impossible to resist!

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Garnishes

You can really make this dish your own with the right toppings. A sprinkle of extra cheddar, more green onions, or a little chopped cilantro takes everything up a notch. If you like a touch of heat, a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce are perfect. Don’t forget a final drizzle of the salsa-sour cream sauce for color and flavor.

Side Dishes

While the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs beautifully with a handful of simple sides. Warm tortillas or tortilla chips are a classic, while a crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeding a crowd, set out some avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try spooning the skillet mix over baked sweet potato halves, or roll up the filling into burritos or wraps. You can also use it as a flavorful topping for nachos, or even tuck leftovers into a quesadilla for a sensational lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and become even richer, making tomorrow’s lunch a treat to look forward to.

Freezing

This skillet freezes surprisingly well. Let the mixture cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months—just remember to freeze the sauce separately for the best texture when you reheat.

Reheating

For the tastiest results, reheat your Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each to keep everything evenly heated. Add the sauce and any fresh garnishes after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! The recipe is very forgiving—ground chicken or beef both work well. If using beef, just be sure to drain away any extra fat after browning to keep the skillet light and flavorful.

What if I don’t have chipotle chili powder?

Don’t worry! Regular chili powder works in a pinch. For that smoky kick, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to mimic the chipotle flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground turkey for your favorite plant-based meat substitute or extra beans. The result will still be hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

How can I make it dairy-free?

It’s easy to make the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet dairy-free: simply leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and replace the sour cream with a plant-based version or extra salsa.

Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or even spinach are all fantastic additions. Just toss them in with the sweet potatoes and beans to keep everything simple and tasty.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dinner that’s color-packed, full of flavor, and weeknight easy, you have to try this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet. It’s a favorite in my kitchen for a reason—give it a shot, and I think it’ll win a spot in your regular rotation too!

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