Can I use different vegetables in place of bell pepper?

Yes, you can substitute with zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

Sweet potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork and are tender but not mushy.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare ahead and reheat on the stove or microwave. It's great for meal prep.

What other spices work well in this skillet?

Try adding chili powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor profile.

Can chicken or beef replace the turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or beef can be used as a substitute. Adjust seasonings as needed for taste.

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet with Fresh Vegetables

A delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is ready to be served. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is my answer for fast weeknight dinners that feel both nourishing and homey. With just a few wholesome ingredients and a single pan, you can create a meal that is colorful, satisfying, and fits right in with busy family routines.

I made this for the first time when a friend with two little kids came over for dinner and everyone polished off their plates I have kept it in regular rotation ever since especially since cleanup is so easy

Ingredients

Ground turkey: adds lean protein without heaviness and pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes Try to select turkey that is fresh and not overly processed
Sweet potatoes, diced: choose ones with firm skin and rich orange color for best texture and flavor
Onion: pick a small one that feels heavy for its size for extra sweetness when it caramelizes
Garlic, minced: adds a punch of flavor and many health benefits Go for firm bulbs with tight skin
Bell pepper, diced: use any color you like A firm bell pepper with shiny skin will add freshness and crunch
Paprika: brings gentle warmth and color Spanish paprika gives wonderful depth
Cumin, half a teaspoon: provides subtle earthiness Ground cumin that smells fragrant will work best
Salt and pepper to taste: sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper help balance flavors
Olive oil: opt for extra virgin for the richest taste and nutritional value
Fresh parsley for garnish: choose bright green leaves to add freshness at the end

Instructions

Prep the Vegetables:: Dice sweet potatoes into half-inch cubes peel if preferred Chop onion finely Dice bell pepper Mince garlic Have everything ready for a smoother cooking process
Sauté Aromatics:: In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium heat Add chopped onion and sauté for three to four minutes until translucent Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant The slow sauté lets natural sugars develop for a sweet savory base
Brown the Turkey:: Add ground turkey to the skillet Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks Brown until no pink remains and the pieces are cooked through about five to seven minutes The turkey should have crispy edges for extra flavor
Combine Veggies and Spice:: Stir in diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper Sprinkle over paprika cumin salt and pepper Mix well so every piece gets coated with seasoning
Steam and Soften:: Cover the skillet Reduce to medium low and let everything cook for fifteen to twenty minutes Stir every five minutes and add a splash of water if the pan looks dry This gentle steam ensures sweet potatoes are fork tender but not mushy
Finish and Serve:: Once sweet potatoes are soft and turkey is cooked through remove from heat Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and serve straight from the skillet

A bowl of meat and vegetables, including carrots, onions, and mushrooms, is ready to be cooked. | myhomemaderecipe.com

My favorite part is the sweetness that comes from the caramelized sweet potatoes I have a memory of cooking this with my niece who kept sneaking bites of the browned turkey when she thought I was not looking It is a dish that brings everyone together around the stove

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days You can freeze portions for a quick lunch later on I like to pack this into glass meal prep containers so I can see the bright sweet potatoes when I open the fridge

Substitution Ideas

If you do not have ground turkey ground chicken or lean beef work just as well You can swap the sweet potatoes for butternut squash or regular potatoes Try using smoked paprika if you want a bigger flavor kick

Serving Suggestions

This skillet stands alone as a balanced meal but I love to pile it over a bed of arugula or spinach for extra greens Sometimes I add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top to bring a bit of tanginess

A Touch of History

Skillet meals like this have roots in home kitchens everywhere where stretching seasonal produce with a bit of meat was essential Sweet potatoes and lean turkey are such classic American ingredients but the use of cumin and paprika nods to global inspirations that make every bite more exciting

A pan of meat and vegetables, including carrots and parsley, is cooked and ready to be served. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This skillet is wholesome, colorful, and packed with flavor. Make it once and it just might become a staple in your busy weeknight dinner rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different vegetables in place of bell pepper?: Yes, you can substitute with zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
→ How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?: Sweet potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork and are tender but not mushy.
→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?: Absolutely. Prepare ahead and reheat on the stove or microwave. It's great for meal prep.
→ What other spices work well in this skillet?: Try adding chili powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
→ Can chicken or beef replace the turkey?: Yes, ground chicken or beef can be used as a substitute. Adjust seasonings as needed for taste.