Healthy One-skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes Recipe

There's nothing quite like a hearty, wholesome meal that comes together in just one pan. This Healthy One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes is packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and warm spices for a dish that's as nourishing as it is delicious.

I first stumbled upon this combination when looking for an easy way to use up leftover ground turkey. What started as a simple toss-together meal quickly became a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It's filling, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want something nutritious.

Why You'll Love This Healthy One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, flavorful dish. Not only is it delicious, but it also checks all the boxes for a satisfying, healthy meal.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy. With just one skillet and 30 minutes, you can have dinner on the table with minimal prep and cleanup.

It's also packed with nutrition. Lean ground turkey provides high-quality protein, while sweet potatoes deliver fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

This meal is budget-friendly and customizable. Using simple, everyday ingredients, you can easily swap in what you have on hand—ground chicken instead of turkey or butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes.

And let’s not forget—it’s meal-prep friendly. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or lunch the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, whole-food ingredients. Each element plays a key role in creating a satisfying, well-balanced meal.

Ground turkey is a lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully. Opt for 93% lean turkey for the best balance between flavor and health benefits.

Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, fiber, and a hearty texture. Diced into small cubes, they cook quickly and blend perfectly with the turkey.

Bell peppers and onions bring color, crunch, and depth of flavor. The combination of red, yellow, and green peppers makes the dish visually appealing and packed with nutrients.

Garlic and spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder elevate the dish with warmth and a hint of smokiness. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

A drizzle of olive oil helps everything caramelize beautifully, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add brightness at the end.

How To Make This Healthy One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes

Making this dish is as simple as it gets, with just a few easy steps.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up. Once hot, add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally, until it's fully cooked and no longer pink.

Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the diced sweet potatoes. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a splash of water or broth to help the potatoes soften.

Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes.

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of brightness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

This skillet meal stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some easy swaps and variations:

Want to mix up the protein? Ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles work just as well.

No sweet potatoes? Try butternut squash or even regular potatoes for a slightly different texture and taste.

Spice it up! Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Make it heartier by tossing in black beans or quinoa for extra fiber and protein.

For a Mediterranean twist, swap the spices for oregano, basil, and feta cheese to give it a different flavor profile.

The possibilities are endless—so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

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