Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

The Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines lean ground turkey with sweet potatoes and a flavorful blend of seasonings. This quick and easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty yet healthy dinner. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory turkey, and with the added crunch of fresh toppings like lettuce and creamy guacamole, this dish is satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a great option for a balanced meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or need a dish that’s both tasty and easy to clean up after, this Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet fits the bill.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix in other vegetables to enhance the flavors. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, the entire meal is made in just one skillet, which means minimal cleanup. Perfect for those who want to eat healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Meal: Everything is cooked in one skillet, saving you time and cleaning effort.
2. Packed with Protein and Fiber: Ground turkey and sweet potatoes provide a healthy combination of protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like guacamole, Greek yogurt, or salsa to create a meal tailored to your tastes.
4. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
5. Gluten-Free Option: With simple substitutions, this meal is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 large sweet potato, diced small
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 package of low sodium taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning, ensuring it’s gluten-free if necessary)
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional for serving:

• Romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• Greek yogurt
• Salsa
• Guacamole or mashed avocado

Variations

Add Extra Veggies

To boost the nutritional value, add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These will blend beautifully with the sweet potatoes and turkey.

Make It Spicy

For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking.

Swap the Cheese

If you’re looking to make the dish dairy-free or just want a change, you can use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely.

Use Ground Chicken

If you prefer ground chicken, it can be easily swapped in for ground turkey without affecting the flavor of the dish.

Make It Paleo

To make this recipe Paleo-friendly, skip the cheese and serve it with guacamole or avocado for a creamy texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potato and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir to combine with the turkey and onion mixture. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 4

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the turkey and sweet potato mixture. Add a splash of water if necessary to help coat the ingredients evenly. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 6

Serve the Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet with optional toppings like chopped romaine lettuce, Greek yogurt, salsa, and guacamole.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Perfectly Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Make sure the sweet potatoes are diced small to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
• Taco Seasoning: If you prefer a homemade taco seasoning, simply combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Don’t Overcook the Turkey: Be sure to cook the turkey just until browned and cooked through to avoid drying it out.
• Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, substitute the ground turkey with plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu, and use dairy-free cheese.

How to Serve

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is best served with a variety of toppings like fresh romaine lettuce for crunch, a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, and a scoop of guacamole for richness. For an added burst of flavor, top it with salsa or a squeeze of lime. This dish is also great served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance out the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely and then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water if needed to prevent drying out.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the skillet on the stove over low heat and cover with a lid. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water to help bring back moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes that are already pre-cooked?

Yes, pre-cooked sweet potatoes can be used. Simply add them towards the end of cooking to warm through and avoid overcooking.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef will work just fine, though the flavor will be slightly different. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can cook the turkey and sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the cheese and toppings when ready to serve.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, try using a spicier taco seasoning, adding chopped jalapeños, or sprinkling some red pepper flakes into the dish.

6. Can I add beans to this dish?

Yes! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition for extra protein and fiber.

7. Can I use another cheese?

Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for any other cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

8. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply omit the cheese and serve with dairy-free toppings like avocado or guacamole.

9. What should I serve this dish with?

This dish is perfect with a side of greens, roasted vegetables, or even a side of crispy tortilla chips.

10. Can I use a different seasoning?

Yes, you can experiment with other seasoning blends like chili seasoning, fajita seasoning, or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan dish that’s not only healthy but incredibly easy to make. Packed with lean turkey, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, and a flavorful blend of seasonings, it’s a meal that will keep you satisfied. Whether you serve it with fresh toppings or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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