Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet: The Ultimate Healthy One-Pan Meal

Ground turkey sweet potato skillet meals have become an incredibly popular dinner option for busy families and health-conscious eaters alike This simple yet delicious one-pan recipe packs a nutritional punch and can be prepped and on the table in under 30 minutes

After testing and tweaking my recipe over the years, I’ve perfected a flavorful skillet meal that my whole family loves. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this easy weeknight dinner including ingredient substitutions, serving suggestions, and helpful tips for maximizing flavor.

Benefits of Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Meals

There are so many reasons why this recipe has become a regular in my meal rotation Here are just a few of the benefits that make it a winner

• Nutritious Packed with protein from the ground turkey, fiber from the sweet potatoes, and vitamins and minerals from the spices Much healthier than takeout or processed frozen meals.

• Family-friendly: With its mildly spicy flavor, this meal appeals to both kids and adults. I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t love it!

• Budget-conscious: Ground turkey is an affordable lean protein.buying frozen sweet potatoes cuts costs too.

• Quick and easy: With just one pan to cook in and minimal prep, it comes together in 30 minutes flat.

• Customizable: Substitute different veggies, play with spices, add toppings – the options are endless.

With all of these advantages, it’s easy to see why this tasty skillet is so popular for busy families, singles, empty nesters and anyone looking for an easy route to healthy eating.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Part of the appeal of this recipe is its ease. Here is an overview of the simple steps:

1. Microwave and prep the sweet potatoes

• Pierce whole sweet potatoes multiple times with a fork
• Microwave on high for 5 minutes, flip and cook 5 more minutes
• Allow to cool slightly. Peel off skins and dice potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes

2. Cook ground turkey

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat
• Add ground turkey and break up with a wooden spoon as it cooks
• Once browned, drain excess grease if needed

3. Flavor and finish

• Add diced sweet potatoes, seasonings, salt and pepper to skillet
• Cover and cook until potatoes reach desired tenderness
• Remove lid, sprinkle with cheese and allow to melt

That’s it! From start to finish, this skillet can be prepped, cooked and on the table in about 30 minutes. The hands-on cooking time is even less.

Ingredients & Substitutions

The simplicity of this recipe is what makes it so appealing for busy weeknights. That said, there is room for customization based on your tastes and what you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions:

Protein:

• Ground turkey: 93% lean works best. Can sub ground chicken or beef.

Vegetables:

• Sweet potatoes: Swap for butternut squash, carrots or cauliflower rice.

• Onions and peppers: Add for extra flavor and nutrients.

Seasonings:

• Chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion, cayenne: Play with the blends.

• Cheese: Sub cheddar, pepper jack, feta or omit for dairy-free.

Toppings:

• Cilantro, avocado, lime juice, hot sauce, Greek yogurt, etc. Get creative!

No matter what ingredients you choose, the method remains the same. The beauty is tailoring it to your personal preferences.

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

I’ve made this skillet countless times over the years and refined my technique. Here are some helpful tips:

• Dice the sweet potatoes small – no more than 1/2-inch cubes. This allows them to cook faster.

• Use a combination of stovetop and oven cooking to achieve perfectly tender potatoes.

• When cooking the ground turkey, break it up finely and drain excess grease for a healthier result.

• Add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth if the skillet looks dry while cooking.

• Season generously with salt, pepper and spices. Ground turkey benefits from extra flavor.

• Time the addition of shredded cheese so that just melts; avoid overcooking.

• Finish with fresh herbs and acidic toppings like lime juice or hot sauce. This brightens up the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet is a full meal on its own, but there are lots of tasty ways to round it out:

• Serve over cauliflower rice or a baked potato to soak up the juices.

• Pair with sautéed greens like kale or spinach.

• Enjoy in lettuce cups or stuffed in a pita pocket.

• Top with diced avocado, Greek yogurt or fresh salsa.

• Add some kernels of corn or black beans for more nutrition.

• Pair with a fresh salad like Southwest chopped salad.

However you choose to serve it, the possibilities are endless. Play around to find your family’s favorite pairing.

FAQs

Over the years, I’ve answered lots of questions about my ground turkey and sweet potato skillet recipe. Here are some of the most common FAQs:

Can I use fresh instead of frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh sweet potatoes. Just bake them first until fork tender before dicing and adding to the skillet.

What kind of ground turkey works best?

I recommend 93% lean ground turkey for the best flavor and moisture. Avoid 99% lean, which can dry out.

Can I use different spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to play around with spice blends like taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, curry powder, etc.

Is this recipe Whole30 or paleo compliant?

It can be if you omit the cheese and use ghee instead of olive oil.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Sure! It reheats well and stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days. Add cheese and toppings after reheating.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an easy, healthy and affordable weekday dinner, give this ground turkey sweet potato skillet a try. It delivers on convenience without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The end result is a dish that both kids and adults will devour.

With some simple prep, easy cooking techniques and creative serving suggestions, you can make this recipe your own. Switch up spices, vegetables, toppings and sides for something new each night of the week. Enjoy!