Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This ground turkey sweet potato skillet brings a mess of bold, savory flavors together in one pan. Sweet potatoes simmer until tender, soaking up the smoky paprika and garlic-infused broth, while fresh kale wilts into the mix, adding a hearty pop of green. Creamy avocado and a hint of fresh mint finish off this skillet dish, balancing richness with brightness in every bite. It’s a weeknight dinner with just enough spice to keep things interesting.

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

• Ground turkey: The ground turkey provides a lean, protein-rich base that absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. It also contributes a hearty texture to the dish.
• Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes during cooking. It helps create a flavorful foundation for the skillet.
• Shallot: This finely chopped shallot introduces a more delicate onion flavor with a subtle sweetness. It enhances the complexity of the overall taste.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a bold, aromatic note that elevates the dish’s savory profile. It infuses the entire skillet with its pungent flavor as it cooks.
• Tomato paste: The tomato paste delivers a concentrated, rich tomato flavor while also thickening the skillet sauce. It binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dish.
• Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes contribute a natural sweetness and soft, tender texture, balancing the smoky and savory elements. As they cook, they absorb the flavors of the broth and spices.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and creates a simmering liquid that helps cook the sweet potatoes. It also melds the flavors, ensuring a flavorful and cohesive dish.
• Smoked paprika: Smoked paprika brings a deep, earthy smokiness that enhances the richness of the ground turkey. It adds warmth and a layer of complexity to the skillet.
• Kale: Fresh kale adds a hearty, slightly bitter note and a chewy texture, contrasting nicely with the softness of the sweet potatoes. It also introduces a vibrant, green color to the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: The crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat that livens up the overall flavor. They provide just enough spice without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado lends a creamy richness that contrasts with the heat and smokiness of the skillet. Its cooling texture provides a pleasant balance to the dish.
• Mint (optional): Fresh mint, if used, adds a bright, refreshing herbal note that lifts the richness of the turkey and sweet potatoes. It brings a light, aromatic touch to the finished dish.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the turkey and vegetables

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In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey, onion, shallot and garlic over medium heat, stirring frequently and breaking up the meat into crumbles, until the turkey is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for one minute longer, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Simmer the sweet potatoes and kale

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Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer, covered, until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the chopped kale and crushed red pepper flakes, then cook and stir until the kale is wilted, about two minutes longer. Serve the skillet with sliced avocado and fresh mint, if desired.

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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Variations

• Replace the sweet potatoes: Swap in squash or another root vegetable for the sweet potatoes. This substitution brings a slightly sweeter, nutty flavor and a firmer texture to the dish.
• Use ground beef instead: For a richer, heartier version, ground beef adds more depth and a savory flavor to the skillet.
• Add black beans: Stir in a can of drained black beans during the final few minutes for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• Replace the kale with spinach: Spinach wilts more quickly and adds a milder, softer texture to the dish while still delivering a boost of greens.
• Make it spicy: Swap half the turkey for ground chorizo to infuse the dish with a smoky, spicy kick.
• Top it with cheese: Crumble some tangy feta or creamy goat cheese on top just before serving for added richness and a burst of flavor.

How to Store Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

The best way to store your ground turkey sweet potato skillet is to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days.

How do you reheat this ground turkey and sweet potato skillet?

To reheat this skillet dish, place a portion in a skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through, five to seven minutes. You can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe dish, covered, on medium heat for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through. Be sure to heat it evenly without drying out the sweet potatoes and kale.

Can you freeze this sweet potato ground turkey skillet?

Once it’s completely cooled, freeze it in freezer containers. When you’re ready to eat it, partially thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Heat it through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, and add broth or water if necessary. Serve with avocado, and mint if desired.

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Tips

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What sides can I serve with this ground turkey skillet with sweet potatoes?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a hearty option, serve it with brown rice. A simple green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the skillet. You could also serve it with warm sourdough bread or roasted vegetables.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

To increase the spice, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, simply omit the red pepper flakes and use a regular paprika instead of smoked paprika.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

You can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers or carrots to boost the veggie content. Just chop them and saute them with the onion and shallot in the first step.