Recipe For Ground Turkey With Sweet Potatoes

This Ground Turkey with Sweet Potatoes is a wholesome and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pan, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in about 30 minutes. Packed with protein and vitamins, this recipe is both satisfying and healthy.

Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey With Sweet Potatoes

• Healthy and Nutritious: This dish is packed with lean protein from the ground turkey and loaded with vitamins and fiber from sweet potatoes and veggies. It’s a balanced meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. The simple steps and minimal prep make it ideal for when you need a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, onions, and sweet potatoes are a great combination, but feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or even frozen veggies.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper creates a deliciously seasoned dish. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and veggies.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup is always a win! This recipe is cooked in one pan, making it convenient and perfect for those who prefer quick and easy clean-up.

Ingredients For Ground Turkey With Sweet Potatoes

• Ground Turkey: Provides a lean source of protein, making the dish healthy and filling.
• Sweet Potatoes: Add natural sweetness and are packed with vitamins and fiber.
• Onion: Adds flavor and texture, creating a savory base for the dish.
• Bell Pepper: Adds color and a mild, sweet flavor that complements the turkey and sweet potatoes.
• Olive Oil: Used for frying the ingredients, contributing to the overall flavor and ensuring they cook evenly.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor that infuses throughout the dish.
• Oregano: Adds a hint of herbal freshness, making the dish more aromatic and flavorful.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Ground Turkey With Sweet Potatoes

• Frying Pan: Essential for cooking the turkey, vegetables, and sweet potatoes.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing the ingredients as they cook.
• Knife: Used for slicing the onion, and bell pepper, and cubing the sweet potatoes.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the vegetables.
• Vegetable Peeler: Helps to peel sweet potatoes quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring Spoons: Useful for measuring out the seasonings to ensure the perfect flavor balance.

How To Make Ground Turkey With Sweet Potatoes

• Heat Oil: Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan. Cook and break it apart with a spatula until it starts to brown.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in the sliced onion and bell pepper with the turkey. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
• Season: Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir to combine and ensure everything is well seasoned.
• Cook Sweet Potatoes Separately: In another pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender (about 20 minutes). Cover the pan with a lid to speed up cooking if needed.
• Season Sweet Potatoes: Season the sweet potatoes with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well.
• Combine: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, combine them with the ground turkey and vegetables in the original frying pan. Stir everything together until well-mixed and heated through.
• Serve: Enjoy your delicious and healthy Ground Turkey with Sweet Potatoes hot from the pan.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: Serve the Ground Turkey with Sweet Potatoes over a bed of steamed rice for a more filling meal.
• With Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the mixture into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb, refreshing option.
• With Quinoa: Serve alongside quinoa for an extra protein boost and a nutty flavor.
• As a Topping: Use it as a hearty topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a comforting dish.

Tips For Success

1. Prep Ingredients Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This includes peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes, slicing the onions and bell peppers, and measuring out the seasonings.
2. Cook Sweet Potatoes Separately: Sweet potatoes take longer to cook than ground turkey. Cooking them separately ensures they are perfectly tender without overcooking the turkey and vegetables. Covering the pan while cooking sweet potatoes helps them cook faster and more evenly.
3. Medium-High Heat for Browning: Start with medium-high heat to brown the ground turkey and vegetables quickly. If you notice any burning, reduce the heat to medium. Browning adds a depth of flavor to the dish, so don’t skip this step.
4. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano are essential for bringing out the flavors in this dish. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences, but make sure each component is well-seasoned.
5. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers and onions are great, but you can also add zucchini, spinach, or even frozen veggies. The key is to use quick-cooking vegetables that complement the dish.
6. Check Sweet Potato Doneness: Sweet potatoes should be tender when done. Check by piercing them with a fork. If they’re not soft enough, continue cooking and stirring until they reach the desired texture.
7. Mix Well: Once all components are cooked, combine them in the pan and mix thoroughly. This ensures every bite has a balance of turkey, sweet potatoes, and veggies, with all the seasonings evenly distributed.
8. Meal Prep Option: This recipe makes about four servings, making it perfect for meal prepping. Divide the dish into four containers and refrigerate. It reheats well, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy days.
9. Stay Flexible: This dish is very forgiving. If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry. The recipe is versatile, and substitutions are welcome. Use it as a base and make it your own with different spices or vegetables.
10. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish tastes just as good, if not better, the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Variations And Substitutions

1. Protein Variations:
   • Ground Chicken: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a slightly different flavor while keeping it lean and healthy.
   • Ground Beef: For a richer taste, use ground beef. It adds more depth to the dish but increases the fat content.
   • Tofu: For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu. Crumble it and cook just like you would with the ground turkey. Season generously for a flavorful meal.
2. Vegetable Variations:
   • Zucchini: Add sliced zucchini for a pop of green and a tender texture.
   • Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end of cooking for added nutrients and color.
   • Frozen Vegetables: Use a mix of frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn for convenience and added variety.
3. Spice It Up:
   • Chili Powder: Add a teaspoon of chili powder for a bit of heat and a smoky flavor.
   • Cumin: Incorporate cumin for a warm, earthy taste that pairs well with the other seasonings.
   • Paprika: Use smoked or sweet paprika to enhance the flavor with a hint of sweetness or smokiness.
4. Herb Substitutions:
   • Basil: Substitute oregano with dried basil for a different herbal note.
   • Thyme: Use dried thyme for a slightly minty and earthy flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.
5. Dietary Modifications:
   • Low-Carb: For a low-carb option, replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
   • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free.
   • Dairy-Free: The recipe is dairy-free, but if you want to add a creamy element, use coconut milk or dairy-free yogurt.
6. Flavor Enhancers:
   • Soy Sauce: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami boost and a slightly salty taste.
   • Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish for a zesty, refreshing twist.
   • Cheese: Sprinkle-grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving for a cheesy finish.
7. Cooking Methods:
   • Oven-Baked: Spread the ground turkey, vegetables, and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
   • Instant Pot: Use the sauté function for browning, then cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, with a quick release.
8. Serving Styles:
   • Stuffed Peppers: Use the mixture to stuff bell peppers. Bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes.
   • Taco Filling: Use the mixture as a filling for tacos, adding your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, and shredded cheese.

Storage and Reheating

1. Storage:
   • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh for up to four days.
   • Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the ground turkey and sweet potato mixture. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.
2. Reheating:
   • Microwave: To reheat in the microwave, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
   • Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop for a more evenly heated dish. Add the leftovers to a frying pan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly heated. You may add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems too dry.
   • Oven: If you prefer, you can reheat in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
3. Tips for Reheating:
   • Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat the dish, as this can dry out the ground turkey and make the sweet potatoes mushy.
   • Stir Well: When reheating, especially in the microwave, stir the dish halfway through to ensure even heating.
   • Freshen Up: If desired, you can freshen up the flavors by adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dash of your favorite seasoning before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. It provides a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a seamless swap. Just follow the same cooking instructions and enjoy your dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the entire recipe ahead of time and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s a great option for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?

You can customize this recipe with any vegetables you have on hand. Great additions include zucchini, spinach, carrots, or frozen vegetable mixes. Just ensure that the vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

Sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Cooking them on medium-high heat and stirring occasionally will help them cook evenly. If they are not tender after 20 minutes, continue cooking and checking every few minutes.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to three months. Place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it over rice, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also make excellent side dishes.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also serve it with hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your seasonings and other ingredients to ensure they do not contain any hidden gluten if you are highly sensitive or have celiac disease.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Fresh herbs can be a great addition to this dish. If using fresh, you’ll typically need about three times the amount of dried herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano.

How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from burning?

To prevent burning, cook the sweet potatoes on medium-high heat and stir them frequently. Covering the pan with a lid helps retain moisture and speeds up cooking without burning. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

Other Easy Ground Turkey Recipes

Ground Turkey in Air Fryer: Quick and juicy ground turkey cooked to perfection in the air fryer, ideal for a healthy and easy meal.

Turkey Bolognese Pasta Sauce: A rich and flavorful Bolognese sauce made with lean ground turkey, perfect for pasta night.

Healthy Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe: A lighter twist on classic lasagna with layers of tender ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese.

Spaghetti Squash with Ground Turkey or Beef Meat Sauce: A low-carb spaghetti squash dish topped with a hearty and savory meat sauce made with ground beef or turkey.

Other Easy Sweet Potato Recipes

Simple Boiled Sweet Potatoes: Simple and nutritious boiled sweet potatoes that are tender, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish or snack.

Air Fryer Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples: A delightful combination of sweet potatoes and apples roasted in the air fryer for a sweet and savory treat.

Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes: Perfectly seasoned diced sweet potatoes cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, making a delicious and healthy side dish.

See also:

• Crescent Roll Air Fryer Fried Oreos

• Air Fryer Fried Bologna Slices

• Easy Chicken Broccoli Fried Rice Recipe