If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor and color, look no further than this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and just the right amount of spice, all coming together in one skillet. With tender ground turkey, sweet and comforting sweet potatoes, creamy cheddar cheese, and a lively salsa sour cream sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in your skillet meal. From the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the smoky warmth of the spices, every component is here to shine.
- Ground turkey: Lean and packed with protein, it forms the hearty base of this dish.
- Diced sweet potatoes: They add a natural sweetness and tender bite that balances the savory flavors.
- Black beans: For a creamy texture and an extra boost of fiber and plant-based protein.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the skillet without overpowering them.
- Chipotle chili powder: Brings smokiness and just the right amount of heat.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chili perfectly.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts over the top for that irresistible gooey finish.
- Green onions: Brighten the dish with fresh, mild bite and vibrant color.
- Tomato, diced: Adds freshness and juiciness, balancing out the richness.
- Sour cream: Combines with salsa to make a creamy, tangy sauce to tie it all together.
- Salsa: Lends a spicy kick and lively flavor that wakes up every bite.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Start by dicing the sweet potatoes and placing them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 5 minutes. This quick steaming softens the potatoes just enough to blend seamlessly later without falling apart.
Step 2: Whip Up the Sauce
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, mix the sour cream and salsa together in a small bowl. This creamy, spicy sauce will become the perfect finishing touch when the skillet meal comes together.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground turkey. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s mostly cooked but still slightly pink. This ensures the turkey stays juicy. If there’s excess liquid, drain it to keep the dish from getting soggy.
Step 4: Bring the Skillet Together
Now stir in your hot sweet potatoes, black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is fully cooked. Then remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top so it melts into a glorious cheesy layer. Finish by scattering green onions and diced tomatoes for freshness and crunch.
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the green onions and diced tomatoes, consider adding fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even sliced avocado. These extras brighten up the dish and add layers of texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp side salad or warm corn tortillas would pair beautifully. They add a refreshing crunch or a hand-held option to scoop up every savory bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet as a filling for soft tacos or stuffed peppers. You can also turn it into a bowl meal with a base of rice or quinoa. No matter how you present it, the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe always feels special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this skillet dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen, making reheats even more delicious!
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in suitable containers. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture, especially after freezing.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work wonderfully with the flavors in this recipe.
How spicy is the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe?
It has a mild to moderate heat thanks to the chipotle chili powder and salsa, but you can adjust by adding more or less spice according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground turkey for a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and veggies for a satisfying vegetarian version.
What kind of salsa works best?
A medium-spicy red salsa gives the perfect balance, but feel free to experiment with green or mango salsa for a twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients here are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s quick, colorful, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting yet fresh meal. I can’t recommend it enough, so grab your skillet and let the cooking adventure begin!
Print
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet with Black Beans, Cheddar, and Spicy Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and easy one-pan meal combining lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, black beans, and a smoky chipotle seasoning, topped with melted cheddar cheese and a creamy salsa-sour cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups diced sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
- 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
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup salsa
Instructions
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes to a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender. Carefully remove and set aside until ready to use.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and salsa. Mix well and set aside to serve alongside the skillet.
- Cook Ground Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5 minutes until mostly cooked through with a slight hint of pink. Drain excess liquid from the skillet if necessary.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the microwaved sweet potatoes, black beans, kosher salt, chipotle chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are soft and the turkey is fully cooked.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Allow it a couple of minutes to melt. Finally, top with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and dollops of the prepared salsa-sour cream sauce. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey if preferred.
- If you do not have a microwave, sweet potatoes can be boiled or roasted until tender before adding to the skillet.
- Adjust the chipotle chili powder amount to control the heat level to your taste.
- For a dairy-free version, replace sour cream and cheddar cheese with vegan alternatives.
- This dish pairs well with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for added fiber.
