Name: Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 2 cups diced sweet potatoes (1 large); 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 3 green onions, sliced; 1 tomato, diced; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup salsa

This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty, flavorful one-pan dinner that combines lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, black beans, and warm spices. I love how this recipe delivers a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and comforting flavors while keeping preparation simple and cleanup minimal. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh vegetables, and a creamy salsa sauce, it makes a satisfying weeknight meal the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground turkey

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups diced sweet potatoes (1 large)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder

3 green onions, sliced

1 teaspoon cumin

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tomato, diced

1/3 cup salsa

Directions

I place the diced sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. I microwave them on high for 5 minutes, then carefully remove them and set them aside.

In a small bowl, I combine the sour cream and salsa to create a creamy sauce for serving.

I heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground turkey. I cook it for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until only a small amount of pink remains. If necessary, I drain any excess liquid.

Then I add the pre-cooked sweet potatoes, black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. I cook everything for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is fully cooked.

Next I remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt.

I finish the dish with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and the prepared salsa sauce before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans for a slightly different flavor and texture. When I want extra vegetables, I add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the skillet. For a spicier version, I mix in diced jalapeños or increase the chipotle chili powder. I also enjoy using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little extra heat. When I prefer a lighter topping, I replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze them for up to 3 months. When reheating, I warm the skillet mixture in a microwave-safe dish for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. I can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, I add a small splash of water or broth while reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare this recipe in advance because it stores well and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, I can easily substitute ground chicken for ground turkey while keeping the cooking instructions the same.

Do I have to microwave the sweet potatoes first?

Microwaving the sweet potatoes helps them cook faster in the skillet. If I skip this step, I need to allow extra cooking time until they become tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. I always double-check packaged ingredients to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

I enjoy serving it with a simple green salad, warm tortillas, avocado slices, or additional salsa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I love how this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dinner. The combination of savory turkey, tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that fits perfectly into a busy schedule. Whether I am cooking for my family, preparing meals ahead of time, or looking for a nutritious one-pan dinner, this recipe is always a dependable choice.

Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating