There's nothing better than a wholesome, comforting meal that comes together in just one pan. This One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes is packed with lean protein, nutrient-dense veggies, and bold flavors, making it a go-to weeknight dinner for busy families.

I first discovered this dish when looking for a way to use up extra ground turkey, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of tender, caramelized sweet potatoes with savory turkey and warming spices creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is entirely healthy.

Why You'll Love This One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes

This dish is more than just a quick meal—it’s a nutritious powerhouse with irresistible flavor.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash and minimal cleanup. Perfect for those nights when you want a delicious meal without the extra work.

It’s also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness along with fiber and essential vitamins, while lean ground turkey adds protein to keep you full and satisfied.

This recipe is budget-friendly. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a filling and nutritious meal without breaking the bank.

And best of all, it's versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes lies in its fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring both flavor and nutrition.

Ground turkey is the star of this dish. It’s lean, full of protein, and absorbs all the delicious spices beautifully. For extra flavor, I recommend using ground turkey with a little bit of fat (85/15) rather than super-lean varieties.

Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a satisfying texture. They balance the savory elements of the dish while providing fiber and vitamins like A and C. Be sure to cut them into evenly sized cubes so they cook consistently.

Onion and garlic are essential for building depth of flavor. As they cook, they release a rich, savory aroma that enhances every bite.

A blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder gives the dish a smoky, slightly spicy kick. These spices complement the sweetness of the potatoes and bring warmth to every bite.

If you have a cast-iron or nonstick skillet, that’s the best tool for this recipe. It ensures even cooking and helps develop a delicious caramelization on the sweet potatoes.

How To Make This One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes

Creating this healthy and flavorful meal is a breeze. Let’s walk through the simple steps.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in your diced onion. Cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, push the onions to the side and add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces, allowing it to brown evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, stirring well to coat the turkey in the flavorful spices.

Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the cubed sweet potatoes. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a nice caramelization on the edges.

Stir the sweet potatoes occasionally, cooking for about 10-12 minutes until they’re tender. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to help them soften.

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, return the cooked turkey to the skillet and stir everything together. Let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and serve immediately.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

For reheating, simply warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep everything moist. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some easy ways to switch things up.

For a vegetarian version, swap the turkey for canned black beans or lentils. They provide a similar protein boost while keeping the dish plant-based.

If you prefer a different protein, ground chicken, beef, or even sausage work wonderfully in place of turkey. Each option brings a slightly different flavor profile.

Want extra greens? Toss in a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully into the dish without overpowering it.

For added heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Love a touch of cheesiness? A sprinkle of feta or shredded cheddar takes this dish to another level of deliciousness.

No matter how you customize it, this One-Skillet Turkey & Sweet Potatoes is a meal that’s easy, healthy, and packed with flavor. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s a household favorite!