I’m so excited to share this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe with you because it’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and healthy — perfect for when you want something nourishing but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tender, lean ground turkey, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.

What I love most is how versatile and easy this skillet is. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals ahead, this recipe has your back. Seriously, once you try this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe, it might just become your go-to for simple, wholesome dinners that the whole family enjoys.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for ingredients that are easy to find and naturally complement each other, creating a well-rounded dish that’s both savory and comforting. I like to use fresh veggies and extra-lean turkey to keep it light but flavorful.

Extra virgin olive oil: This is your cooking oil, adding a subtle richness and helping everything cook evenly without overpowering the flavors.
Free-range extra-lean ground turkey: Using lean turkey keeps the dish light and healthy. Free-range varieties often taste better and have better texture.
Garlic clove minced: A little garlic goes a long way in boosting flavor — don’t skip it!
Onions diced: These build the savory base and add a touch of sweetness as they caramelize.
Yellow pepper diced: Adds color, crunch, and a mild sweetness that balances nicely with the turkey and sweet potato.
Sweet potato diced: The star of this skillet — its natural sweetness and soft texture tie the whole dish together beautifully.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out every flavor.
Red chili flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, this adds warmth without overwhelming the dish.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for that irresistible gooey finish.
Fresh parsley for garnishing: Brightens up the flavors and gives your skillet a fresh, herbaceous note.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often tweak it depending on what’s in my fridge or how spicy I’m feeling that day — personalization is encouraged!

Variation: I sometimes swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef when I want to mix things up. Each brings its own flavor profile, though turkey keeps it lighter.
Vegetarian option: Use diced butternut squash or extra veggies like zucchini and mushrooms in place of turkey.
Spice it up: Adding a bit of smoked paprika or cumin can add some warmth and depth.
Cheese options: Try feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangier taste.
Make it heartier: Throw in some cooked quinoa or black beans for extra protein and texture.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onions, cooking until they’re translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because it really builds the flavor base—you want your kitchen smelling amazing right from the start!

Step 2: Cook the ground turkey

Next, add the ground turkey. Use your spatula to break it up into small pieces and cook until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and if you’re using them, red chili flakes. Tip: Don’t rush this step. Let the turkey get a little color—it adds so much depth.

Step 3: Add the veggies and sweet potatoes

Now toss in your diced yellow pepper and sweet potatoes. Stir everything together well and cook over medium heat, covered if you can, for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of water if needed to help steam the sweet potatoes. Patience here pays off with perfectly soft, flavorful chunks.

Step 4: Finish with cheese and parsley

Lower the heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the skillet. Cover briefly so the cheese melts just right—about 2 minutes. Then, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for that fresh, vibrant finish. Your kitchen will smell irresistible, and your skillet will look gorgeous!

How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

In a white skillet with a black cooking surface, there is a mix of three main layers: bright orange small cubes of cooked sweet potato spread evenly, crumbled browned ground meat scattered throughout, and small patches of melted white cheese that are stringy and soft, tucked in between the meat and sweet potato. A wooden spoon with a smooth light brown handle rests inside the skillet, stirring the mixture gently. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface with a folded gray and white striped cloth to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like topping this dish with a little extra fresh parsley because it adds a neat pop of color and brightness at the end. Sometimes I also sprinkle a few crushed red pepper flakes if I’m serving it to friends who like a bit of heat. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on the side is a nice creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

Since this skillet is pretty hearty, I usually keep the sides light and fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well. Occasionally, I’ll serve it alongside some steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts to add more veggies to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, I’ve served this skillet recipe in individual cast iron skillets—it feels rustic and cozy, and everyone loves their own little skillet. Another fun idea is to stuff the mixture into bell pepper halves and bake them for a pretty presentation that doubles as a side!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating works best in a skillet on low heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture and prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out.

Freezing

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe freezes surprisingly well. I spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge—this is a lifesaver on busy nights.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a little water or broth helps restore the texture of the sweet potatoes. Avoid the microwave if you can, for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Regular potatoes will work, but the dish will be less sweet and a bit more starchy. Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture that complements the turkey nicely.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is great for meal prep because it stores well in the fridge and freezes nicely. Just portion it out into containers and reheat when you need a quick, healthy meal.
Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Simply increase the red chili flakes or add some cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also toss in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it more heat.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?

Feel free to use any melting cheese you like such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Soft cheeses like goat cheese or feta can also add a nice tangy twist.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Just skip the mozzarella cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish is still delicious without cheese, and the herbs and spices do a great job adding flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those reliable, comforting meals that never disappoints. It’s simple, wholesome, and adaptable—perfect for busy days and cozy nights alike. I highly encourage you to give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and make it your own—it might just become that easy, delicious recipe you turn back to time and again.