Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet

After numerous requests from my family for something both wholesome and bursting with flavor, I decided to experiment with a skillet recipe that promised to deliver on both fronts. The result? This Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet – a dish that has become a weeknight staple in our home. The warm spices perfectly complement the sweetness of the potatoes and the savory turkey, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Even my pickiest eater devours it without complaint, which is a win in my book! It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with nutrients. Honestly, it’s become my go-to when I need a healthy and satisfying meal on the table fast, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you so it can become a favorite in your home too.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the star of this dish, providing a healthy source of protein.
• 2 large Sweet Potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes: Sweet potatoes offer a wonderful sweetness and are packed with vitamins and fiber, adding both flavor and nutritional value to the skillet.
• 1 large Yellow Onion, chopped: Yellow onion provides a foundational savory flavor base to the dish, mellowing as it cooks and adding depth.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped: Red bell pepper brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, along with vitamin C and other nutrients.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall spice profile of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat to the recipe while preventing sticking.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Cumin provides a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of many spice blends.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander: Coriander offers a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor note that complements the cumin and other spices.
• ¾ teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky depth and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall complexity of the spice blend.
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric Powder: Turmeric not only adds a vibrant golden color but also a mild, earthy flavor and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• ¼ teaspoon Chili Powder: Chili powder provides a gentle warmth and subtle heat, adding another layer of spice complexity. Adjust to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients in the skillet.
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of sharpness and complements the other spices, rounding out the flavor profile.
• ½ cup Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Broth adds moisture to the skillet, helping the sweet potatoes cook through and creating a light sauce. Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional): Fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous finish and adds a pop of freshness to the dish.
• Lime Wedges (for serving, optional): Lime wedges add a zesty tang that brightens the flavors and complements the spices, especially when squeezed over the finished dish.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Chop the yellow onion and red bell pepper into similar-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped yellow onion and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the bell pepper is slightly softened and the garlic is fragrant. Cooking the aromatics first builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
3. Brown the Turkey: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground turkey to the skillet and break it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook the turkey, stirring frequently, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up any large clumps of turkey to ensure even cooking. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet after the turkey is browned for a healthier dish.
4. Add Spices and Sweet Potatoes: Once the turkey is browned and drained, reduce the heat back to medium. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to coat the turkey and vegetables evenly with the spices. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This process, known as “blooming” the spices, enhances their flavor and aroma. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine them with the spiced turkey and vegetables.
5. Simmer and Cook: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) into the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the sweet potatoes are somewhat submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Simmering covered allows the sweet potatoes to steam and cook through evenly while absorbing the flavorful broth and spices. Check the skillet occasionally and add a splash more broth if needed to prevent it from drying out too much.
6. Check for Doneness and Adjust Seasoning: After 15-20 minutes, uncover the skillet and check the sweet potatoes for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork and cooked through but not mushy. If they are not yet tender, continue to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, checking periodically. Taste the skillet and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or chili powder to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked to your liking and the seasoning is adjusted, remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, stir in a tablespoon of fresh cilantro for added freshness. Serve the Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet hot, garnished with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime juice over each serving just before eating to brighten the flavors. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious skillet meal!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal: This skillet recipe is moderately calorie-conscious, making it a great option for a balanced meal without being overly heavy. Calorie counts can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
• Protein: 30-35 grams: Thanks to the lean ground turkey, this dish is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle building, satiety, and overall bodily functions. Protein helps keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
• Vitamin A: Excellent Source: Sweet potatoes are incredibly rich in Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), which is vital for vision, immune function, and skin health. This skillet is an excellent way to boost your Vitamin A intake.
• Vitamin C: Good Source: Red bell peppers are a good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, collagen production, and iron absorption. This recipe provides a healthy dose of this essential vitamin.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes: This includes the time needed to peel and dice the sweet potatoes, chop the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and measure out the spices. Efficient knife skills can help reduce prep time.
• Cook Time: 30 minutes: This encompasses the time to sauté the aromatics, brown the turkey, simmer the sweet potatoes until tender, and allow the flavors to meld together. The majority of the cooking time is hands-off simmering.
• Total Time: 50 minutes: From start to finish, this Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet is ready in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal option for busy individuals and families.

How to Serve

This versatile Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet can be served in numerous delicious ways:

• As a Standalone Meal: Enjoy it as a hearty and satisfying one-pan meal. It’s perfectly balanced with protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, making it a complete and nutritious dinner.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the skillet mixture over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or quinoa for added grains and to soak up the flavorful sauce. This is a great way to stretch the meal and make it even more filling. Brown rice or quinoa will add extra fiber.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, lower-carb option, spoon the skillet mixture into crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine lettuce). This makes a refreshing and flavorful appetizer or light meal.
• With Tortillas: Warm up some tortillas (corn or flour) and serve the skillet mixture as flavorful tacos or burritos. Add your favorite taco toppings like salsa, avocado, sour cream, or cheese.
• Topped with a Fried Egg: For a brunch or breakfast-for-dinner twist, top each serving with a perfectly fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and extra protein.
• Alongside a Green Salad: Pair the skillet with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance out the warm spices.

Additional Tips for the Best Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet

1. Spice Level Adjustment: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder. For a milder flavor, use less chili powder or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Diced carrots, zucchini, or butternut squash would be delicious additions. You could also add frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking for extra vegetables.
3. Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs (Alternative Protein): For a richer flavor and different texture, you can substitute bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the ground turkey. Brown the chicken thighs first, then remove them from the skillet and proceed with the recipe, adding them back in to simmer with the sweet potatoes until cooked through.
4. Add Greens for Extra Nutrients: Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals. Allow the greens to wilt into the skillet mixture.
5. Make it Creamy (Optional): For a creamier skillet, stir in a tablespoon or two of plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk at the very end of cooking, off the heat. This will add richness and a velvety texture.
6. Meal Prep Friendly: This skillet is excellent for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch on the weekend and portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and the flavors meld even further overnight.
7. Freezer-Friendly: The Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
8. Garnish Creatively: Beyond cilantro and lime, consider other garnishes to elevate the dish. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped avocado, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or pepitas, or a drizzle of hot sauce can all add interesting textures and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. The flavor profile will be very similar, and it will still be a lean and healthy protein option. Just ensure it’s cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q2: I don’t have smoked paprika. Can I use regular paprika?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika on hand. However, smoked paprika adds a distinct smoky depth that enhances the flavor of the dish. If using regular paprika, you might consider adding a tiny pinch of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke (use sparingly!) to try and mimic that smoky flavor.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, it’s easily adaptable! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas along with the sweet potatoes. For a vegan version, ensure you are using vegetable broth and omit any dairy garnishes like sour cream or Greek yogurt. You could also add a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh or lentils.

Q4: How long does the Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this skillet will last for 3-4 days. Ensure it cools down completely before refrigerating for food safety.

Q5: Can I use different types of sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different varieties of sweet potatoes. Beauregard, Garnet, or Jewel sweet potatoes will all work well. Just ensure they are diced into uniform pieces for even cooking, regardless of the variety.

Q6: My sweet potatoes are taking longer to cook. What should I do?
A: If your sweet potatoes are not tender after the recommended cooking time, continue to simmer them covered for a bit longer, checking every 5 minutes. Ensure there is still enough liquid in the skillet; if it’s drying out, add a splash more broth or water. The size of the sweet potato dice can also affect cooking time; larger pieces will take longer.

Q7: Can I add more vegetables to this skillet?
A: Definitely! This recipe is very versatile and can handle additional vegetables. Consider adding diced carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, kale, or even frozen peas or corn. Heartier vegetables like carrots should be added earlier in the cooking process along with the onions and peppers. Leafy greens should be added towards the end to wilt.

Q8: What are some good side dishes to serve with this skillet?
A: While it’s a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with a simple green salad, cornbread, a side of steamed green beans, or a fresh avocado salad for a more substantial meal. A dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can also be a refreshing side.

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