Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups spinach; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals

I love making this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet for dinner because it's not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of savory ground turkey and sweet potatoes creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. This dish comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze, which is perfect after a long day. Plus, it’s so versatile that I can switch up the veggies based on what I have in my fridge, allowing me to tailor it to my family's preferences.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:21:36.629Z

When I first tried making this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, I was blown away by how well the flavors meld together. The sweetness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the seasoned turkey, creating a perfect harmony. I used Italian herbs for seasoning, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible!

As I made this dish a few more times, I discovered that adding a handful of spinach at the end not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a nice vibrant color to the skillet. This little touch brings a fresh taste that elevates the overall dish!

What You'll Love About It
Nutritious sweet potatoes packed with vitamins and minerals
Ground turkey provides lean protein without sacrificing flavor
One-pan recipe makes for easy cleanup

Ingredient Insights

Sweet potatoes are the star ingredient in this dish, offering a natural sweetness and creaminess that balances the savory turkey. Beyond their delicious flavor, they are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin, and avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes to ensure the best texture when cooked.

Ground turkey serves as a lean protein source in this skillet, providing a hearty base without excess fat. It's important to cook it thoroughly while still preserving moisture; browning the turkey for about 6-7 minutes is ideal. For those looking to reduce calories even more, use ground turkey breast, but keep in mind it may result in a slightly drier dish. A common substitute could be ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian take.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is the cooking order and technique. Start by browning the ground turkey to develop those flavorful, crispy bits; this step is vital for adding depth to the dish. Using a large skillet allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can steam rather than sear your ingredients. Don’t rush; if you have a smaller skillet, consider cooking the turkey in batches to ensure it browns nicely.

When adding the sweet potatoes, it's helpful to ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Dicing them into about half-inch cubes allows them to cook through in the recommended 10-12 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them, and if they're browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning—this is crucial for achieving that lovely, caramelized flavor without sacrificing texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups spinach
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Spinach

Once the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating bell peppers or jalapeños. You can also top with avocado or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm throughout. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked dish in portions. It keeps well for about 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sweet potatoes, onions, and turkey in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge, then combine and cook them in the skillet when you're ready to eat. This approach helps to keep the ingredients fresher and can cut down your cooking time to just 10 minutes!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of this skillet dish based on your family’s preferences. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can impart a lovely smokiness, or a splash of hot sauce can turn up the heat if that's your vibe. You can also toss in a handful of chopped bell peppers or zucchini when adding the onions for extra color and nutrition without significantly altering the cooking time.

For a more Mediterranean twist, consider seasoning the dish with a teaspoon of cumin and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Top it with crumbled feta cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an aromatic touch. These variations allow the skillet to adapt to seasonal ingredients or flavors you might prefer at any given time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet meal is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or quinoa for extra fiber.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.