Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Why Make This Recipe
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful and hearty dish that marries the rich flavors of ground turkey and sweet potatoes. This recipe stands out because it brings together healthy ingredients in a way that is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. The combination of protein-rich turkey, fiber-filled sweet potatoes, and nutritious black beans makes this meal a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it can be made in just one skillet, which means less cleanup for you!
This dish is also versatile. It works well for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other sides. With its blend of spices and toppings, Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet offers a taste that brings comfort food to a whole new level. You can enjoy this colorful dish that is pleasing to the eye as well as the taste buds.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup salsa
Directions:
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Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Start by microwaving the diced sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes. This softens them and cuts down on the cooking time.
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Mix the Sauce: While the sweet potatoes are cooking, take a small bowl and mix the sour cream and salsa together. Set it aside for later.
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Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, place the ground turkey and cook it over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Stir it occasionally, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
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Add Sweet Potatoes and Beans: After 5 minutes, add the microwaved sweet potatoes, drained and rinsed black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
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Melt the Cheese: Once the turkey and sweet potato mixture is heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish the dish with sliced green onions and diced tomatoes. Serve it warm with the salsa and sour cream mixture on the side.
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a one-pan meal that can be served directly from the skillet for a casual family dinner or transferred to a serving platter for a more formal gathering. If you desire, you can serve this dish alongside a fresh green salad to add more color and crunch to the meal. Additionally, adding a warm tortilla on the side can elevate the dining experience. Spill the ingredients into the tortilla for a delicious wrap with every bite!
For those for whom toppings are essential, consider offering sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños to let guests customize their portions according to their preferences. This way, everyone can tailor their plate to suit their own taste. Enjoying this meal with a side of your favorite chips or a light soup is also recommended.
How to Store Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry, this meal stores well! Allow the skillet to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. This dish freezes well, and you can store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to eat it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you’re reheating from frozen, it may be best to do it slowly in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to ensure it warms evenly without overcooking the ingredients.
Tips to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
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Dicing Sweet Potatoes: When dicing sweet potatoes, try to make the pieces even in size so they cook at the same rate. This will ensure that none are undercooked or overcooked.
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Smoky Flavor: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider adding some smoked paprika alongside the spices. It complements the chipotle chili powder and elevates the dish.
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Make it Spicy: If you like heat, try adding a little cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh jalapeños when cooking the turkey.
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Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. This keeps the dish substantial while maintaining a flavorful profile.
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Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A pepper jack cheese adds some kick, or go with a classic fontina for a milder melt.
Variation
This dish is versatile, so you can change it up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas for variations:
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Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and add more color to your skillet.
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Different Beans: Instead of black beans, try kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
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Taco Flavors: To turn this into a taco-inspired dish, consider adding taco seasoning instead of the individual spices. Serve it in corn or flour tortillas for a fun twist.
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Sweet and Spicy: For those who enjoy contrasting flavors, you can add a little honey or maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture. It enhances their natural sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make this in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet in advance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used in this recipe. It will provide a different flavor profile and more richness. Just be mindful of the fat content; leaner ground beef is recommended to keep the dish healthier.
What is the best way to cut sweet potatoes?
When cutting sweet potatoes, it’s easiest to peel them first. Then, slice them into rounds about ½ inch thick and then dice those rounds into smaller cubes. This will help them cook evenly and quickly when added to your skillet.
Can I add more spice to this dish?
Yes, if you enjoy spicy foods, feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle chili powder or cumin to your taste. Additionally, you can incorporate hot sauce or chili flakes when serving for an extra kick.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed in the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet are gluten-free, making it suitable for those who are avoiding gluten in their diets. Always check labels when using canned products to ensure they are gluten-free.
Now that you have this detailed guide, you’re ready to make your own Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet. Enjoy the cooking process and savor each bite of this wonderful dish!
PrintGround Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
A delightful one-pan meal combining ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and black beans, rich in flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup salsa
Instructions
- Microwave the diced sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes.
- Mix the sour cream and salsa in a small bowl and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart.
- Add the sweet potatoes, black beans, salt, chili powder, and cumin; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Garnish with green onions and tomatoes, serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. This dish can easily be made vegetarian by substituting ground turkey with lentils.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg