Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet – Quick, Healthy, and Delicious

There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal, isn’t there? Especially on those evenings when the day has been long, but you still crave something wholesome and satisfying. This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet has become my go-to on busy weeknights—packed with flavor, nourishing ingredients, and minimal cleanup (because who wants to scrub a mountain of dishes?). The sweetness of the potatoes, the savory turkey, and just the right hint of spice make it a dish that feels indulgent while still being light and nourishing. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you full but not sluggish, happy but not guilty—and really, isn’t that the dream?

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb ground turkey – I prefer 93% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness, but any variety works.
2 medium sweet potatoes – Diced into small cubes for quicker cooking. Their natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully!

1 bell pepper – Any color you like—I’m partial to red for that extra pop of sweetness.
1 small onion – Yellow or white, finely chopped. It’s the aromatic base that makes everything sing.
2 cloves garlic – Minced. Because what’s a skillet meal without garlic?

1 tsp smoked paprika – This adds a subtle depth that makes the dish feel extra cozy.
½ tsp cumin – Just a whisper for warmth without overpowering.
Salt & black pepper – To taste, of course. Don’t be shy!

1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing. A good glug to keep things from sticking.
Fresh parsley or cilantro – For garnish. A little green makes everything prettier.

Let’s Get Cooking

This skillet comes together in under 30 minutes—truly a weeknight lifesaver. Here’s how I make it:

Sauté the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell pepper, stirring occasionally until they soften—about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the garlic and let it bloom for just 30 seconds, until fragrant. (Pro tip: Don’t let the garlic brown, or it’ll turn bitter!)
Brown the turkey. Push the veggies to the side and add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Let it brown nicely—this is where the flavor builds!
Add the sweet potatoes. Stir in those vibrant orange cubes, making sure they’re nestled in with the turkey and veggies. Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil if you don’t have one) and let everything cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The steam helps soften the sweet potatoes faster.

Check for doneness. Pierce a sweet potato cube with a fork—it should be tender but not mushy. If needed, give it another few minutes. (If things are sticking, a splash of broth or water helps loosen everything up.)

At this point, your kitchen should smell absolutely heavenly—savory, slightly sweet, and utterly inviting. But we’re not done yet! The finishing touches make all the difference, and I’ll share those in the next part of this post.

This ground turkey sweet potato skillet is one of those magical meals that comes together in a flash but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down. Let’s talk about how to make it even better!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Every home cook knows that flexibility is key in the kitchen. Here are some ways to tweak this recipe to suit your taste or pantry:

Swap the protein: Not a fan of ground turkey? Try ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Veggie variations: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or crumbled feta on top before serving for a creamy finish.

What to Serve With Your Skillet

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are some delicious pairings:

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Warm, crusty bread or fluffy cornbread

Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts
A dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices for extra creaminess

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This skillet meal keeps beautifully for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged ingredients (like broth or seasonings) to be safe.

Can I make this in advance?

Definitely! Prep the ingredients ahead of time, then cook when ready. Leftovers also reheat beautifully for meal prep.

What if I don’t have a skillet?

No worries—a large, deep frying pan or even a Dutch oven will work just fine.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. This ground turkey sweet potato skillet is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated—just wholesome ingredients, simple prep, and big flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the days ahead, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking, friends!