As the weather starts to cool down, our thoughts turn to cozy comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly. One of our favorite combinations for a comforting meal is ground turkey and sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the turkey, creating a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the perfect union of ground turkey and sweet potatoes.
From hearty skillets to flavorful casseroles, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to dive into the world of ground turkey and sweet potato comfort food!
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Stuffed Turkey Meatballs
Sweet Potato Stuffed Turkey Meatballs: A Twist on a Classic
These unique meatballs combine the flavors of roasted sweet potatoes and savory turkey, making for a delicious and unexpected twist on traditional meatball recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, mashed sweet potato, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey Sweet Potato Hash
A delicious twist on classic hash, this Turkey Sweet Potato Hash combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or red bell peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, turkey, and roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the spiciness of ground turkey with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, chopped jalapeño, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Meanwhile, roast the sweet potato in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, topping with roasted sweet potato, and adding any desired toppings.
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
A twist on the classic comfort food, this Sweet Potato Turkey Shepherd’s Pie combines the warmth of turkey and vegetables with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potato topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
This comforting chili recipe combines the savory flavors of ground turkey with sweet and tender sweet potatoes, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Turkey Breakfast Scramble
Sweet Potato and Turkey Breakfast Scramble
Start your day off right with this delicious and nutritious breakfast scramble featuring roasted sweet potatoes, savory turkey sausage, and scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and/or salsa for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1/2 teaspoon salt and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt and pepper. Scramble eggs in the same skillet used for the turkey sausage, stirring constantly, until just set.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and cooked turkey sausage in the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until eggs are fully set and mixture is heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Turkey Sweet Potato Lettuce Wraps
These vibrant wraps combine the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and crisp lettuce, making for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Assemble wraps by placing sliced turkey, roasted sweet potato cubes, and mixed greens onto individual lettuce leaves.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these moist and flavorful Sweet Potato Turkey Burgers, packed with nutritious sweet potato and lean turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, ground turkey breast, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the comfort of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of ground turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the diced sweet potatoes until they are tender. Drain and mash with milk, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked turkey mixture, mashed sweet potatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle thyme over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatloaf
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
This sweet and savory meatloaf combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the moistness of ground turkey, creating a delicious and unique twist on traditional meatloaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, mashed sweet potato, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Sweet Potato Stir-Fry
A deliciously healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and sweet potatoes with a hint of Asian-inspired spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Return the cooked turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Sweet Potato and Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory turkey and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the diced sweet potatoes and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-sweet potato mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Soup
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Soup Recipe
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for a chilly day, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Soup combines the warm flavors of sweet potatoes and turkey with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Enchiladas
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of sweet potato with the savory goodness of turkey, wrapped in a crispy tortilla and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mashed sweet potato and 1/4 cup enchilada sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry combines tender turkey with sweet potatoes and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are slightly tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and add the browned turkey back into the skillet.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Bolognese
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines sweet potatoes with ground turkey and rich tomato sauce for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sweet potato, crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Nachos
A twist on classic nachos, these sweet potato-topped treats combine the savory flavors of ground turkey and cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup nacho cheese shreds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla chips (for serving)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
6. Arrange roasted sweet potato slices on a serving platter; top with ground turkey mixture, cheese shreds, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: With tortilla chips and optional toppings of your choice!
Sweet Potato Turkey Quesadillas
These sweet potato turkey quesadillas offer a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional Mexican dishes. By incorporating roasted sweet potatoes and savory ground turkey, you’ll create a delightful combination that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook ground turkey in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. In a large skillet, place a tortilla and sprinkle with half of the cheese. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, turkey mixture, and remaining cheese. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sweet Potato Gnocchi
A twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and sweet potatoes for a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, ground turkey, and flour. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and pliable.
4. Cut the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten slightly to form gnocchi shapes.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and drain off excess water.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine ground turkey and sweet potatoes! From hearty skillets to comforting casseroles, and even breakfast scrambles and tacos, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover creative twists on classic dishes like shepherd’s pie, meatballs, and burgers, as well as international inspirations like curry and enchiladas. With these flavorful recipes, you’ll never get bored with the same old meals again.
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