Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to make. You’ll love how quickly this comes together, making it an ideal choice for your meal prep dinner recipes rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: You can use ground chicken or lean ground beef.
- Sweet Potatoes: Butternut squash works well as a substitute.
- Spinach: Kale is a great alternative.
- Cumin: If you don’t have cumin, try a pinch of chili powder for a different flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a fine substitute.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado, diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
- Tools Needed: Large skillet with a lid
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Turkey
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices
Introduce the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the sweet potatoes and turkey with the spices.
4. Simmer to Tenderness
Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Wilt the Spinach
Remove the lid and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts down. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat. Divide the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet among serving plates. Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced avocado if desired.
Variation Ideas
- Add black beans or corn for extra fiber and flavor.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese for creaminess.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during step 3.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making this an excellent option for your meal prep dinner recipes. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the sweet potatoes and onion a day in advance to save time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How can you make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Can you freeze this skillet meal?
While you can, sweet potatoes might become a bit mushy after freezing and thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
A large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven works perfectly for this one-pan meal.
Can you use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced sweet potatoes. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
