Healthy, Hearty, and Ready in One Pan!
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and filling dinner that doesn’t require a pile of dishes, this Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is about to become your new weeknight favorite! I love this recipe because it’s the perfect mix of savory, slightly sweet, and super satisfying. Tender chunks of sweet potato, juicy ground turkey, and colorful veggies all come together in one skillet — no oven, no fuss. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good while still tasting like comfort food.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about one-pan meals. They save time, keep cleanup easy, and let all the flavors mingle together beautifully. The sweet potatoes soak up the savory turkey juices, while spices like paprika, cumin, and garlic add warmth and depth. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — perfect for meal prep, busy nights, or even post-workout refueling. I often top mine with avocado or a fried egg for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is packed with goodness! Ground turkey is a lean source of protein that helps build muscle and keeps you full longer. Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamin A, and potassium, giving this meal a naturally sweet flavor and a nutritional edge. Add in bell peppers and spinach, and you’re looking at a colorful, nutrient-rich dinner that supports energy, immunity, and digestion — all in under 30 minutes!
Tasty Variations You Can Try
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder for some heat.
- Mexican-style twist: Mix in black beans, corn, and top with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
- Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
- Vegan version: Swap the turkey for cooked lentils or chickpeas — still protein-packed and just as hearty!
Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, green onions, or shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop a golden color.
- Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the pan and add the ground turkey to the other. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, stir everything together.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
- Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- If using spinach, stir it in now and cook until just wilted — about 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. I usually squeeze in a bit of lime juice at the end for freshness!
- Serve warm, topped with sliced avocado, cheese, or green onions if you like. It’s wholesome, colorful, and completely satisfying!
Helpful Tips for Success
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook at the same rate and get that perfect golden-brown texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give ingredients room to brown instead of steam — that’s where the flavor happens!
- Meal prep friendly: This dish stores beautifully. Divide into containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days for quick lunches or dinners.
- Add your favorites: Zucchini, corn, or mushrooms fit right in here. The more color, the better!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and gives a slightly lighter flavor.
- How do I make this dish vegetarian? Replace the turkey with lentils or crumbled tofu — you’ll still get that protein punch.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! Cook everything, let it cool, and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in a skillet before serving.
- What can I serve it with? It’s a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad.
Let’s Stay Connected!
Did you whip up this Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet tonight? I’d love to see how it turned out! Snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest — I can’t wait to see your colorful creations. Healthy, delicious, and quick — that’s the kind of cooking we all deserve. 🍠🥦🍳


