Looking for a healthy, high-protein meal that’s easy to prep and packed with flavor? This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet checks all the boxes. Made in just one pan with lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and colorful veggies, it’s the perfect balance of nutrition and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for the week or just need a quick dinner after class, this meal delivers. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, affordable, and fully meal-prep approved. In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to make it, how to store it, and how to switch it up depending on your routine.
Quick Answer: What Is Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet?
A ground turkey sweet potato skillet is a simple and healthy one-pan dish combining lean ground turkey, cubed sweet potatoes, and sautéed vegetables. It’s perfect for meal prep, naturally gluten-free, and ideal for busy weeknights or dorm-friendly batch cooking.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, prep lunches for the week, or just want something easy and satisfying this skillet covers it all.
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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
This one-pan skillet combines ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and colorful veggies in a protein-packed, easy-to-make meal prep recipe. Ready in under 30 minutes it’s the perfect healthy meal for students, families, or anyone on the go.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean)
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded cheese, lime juice, fresh parsley or cilantrov
Instructions
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula. Once browned and cooked through, transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, add another tbsp of oil. Toss in the cubed sweet potatoes and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and return the turkey to the pan.
Mix well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until fully combined. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen.
Garnish with fresh herbs, avocado, or cheese, and serve hot — or cool and portion into meal prep containers.
Notes
Use ground chicken or beef if preferred
For extra fiber, toss in spinach or kale
Make it spicy with red chili flakes or jalapeño
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Meal Prep
- Method: Skillet, Sauté
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ One-pan = minimal cleanup
- ✅ High-protein and high-fiber
- ✅ Perfect for weekly meal prep
- ✅ Student-budget friendly
- ✅ Freezer- and fridge-friendly
- ✅ Easily customizable (vegan, paleo, Whole30 options)
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need for 4 servings:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey – lean, 93% recommended
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, lime juice
🧊 Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup black beans
- ½ cup frozen corn
- Chopped spinach or kale for extra greens
🔥 How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Dice onion, bell pepper, and mince garlic.
Step 2: Sauté Ground Turkey
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook for 6–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Break it up with a spatula. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Veggies
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp oil, sweet potatoes, and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
Step 4: Add Onion, Bell Pepper & Garlic
Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté 3–5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked turkey to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2–3 more minutes to blend flavors. Add water or broth if needed for moisture.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or shredded cheese. Serve hot or cool completely for storage.
🍱 Storage and Meal Prep Tips
| Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge | 4–5 days | Store in airtight containers |
| Freezer | 2–3 months | Freeze in single portions for easy reheating |
| Reheat | Microwave or skillet | Add a splash of water if dry |
Best container: BPA-free glass or plastic with compartments.
Meal prepping isn’t just about lunch and dinner—breakfast counts too! If you want to get ahead on your mornings, these Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are a high-protein, low-effort solution. They bake quickly, store well, and pair perfectly with this skillet for a fully prepped day of eating. Both recipes use simple ingredients, are great for student kitchens, and reheat like a dream. Add a few egg bites to your container next to this turkey skillet and you’ll have a full day of fuel without needing a microwave marathon.
🔄 Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes
- Vegan Option: Replace turkey with tofu or lentils
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower instead of sweet potatoes
- Cheesy Add-On: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar
- Whole30-Friendly: Omit cheese and use clean-label spices
🔍 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 26g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Macros may vary depending on added toppings or substitutions.
❓ FAQ: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely. Ground chicken, lean beef, or even crumbled tofu work well.
Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes offer more fiber and vitamin A. They’re a complex carb great for energy and fullness.
What if I don’t have paprika or cumin?
Try Italian seasoning or taco spice blend instead for a twist in flavor.
💬 Final Thoughts
The Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a one-pan meal it’s a smart solution for anyone juggling a busy schedule and a tight food budget. With wholesome ingredients, quick prep, and bold flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to week after week. Don’t forget to pair it with a breakfast option like our Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bites or finish your meal with a sweet treat like these Protein Cupcakes. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a meal prep classic.