Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, healthy, and downright delicious weeknight meal, you’re going to love this Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe. I absolutely adore how it combines hearty sweet potatoes with lean ground turkey and that pop of black beans and corn — it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you try this skillet magic, you’ll keep coming back to it for easy dinners and meal prep alike.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe’s beauty is in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients working perfectly together – sweet potatoes give a natural sweetness, ground turkey adds lean protein, and black beans plus corn add texture and fiber. Picking fresh produce really enhances the dish, especially ripe tomatoes and a good-quality jalapeño.

• Sweet Potato: Peeled and diced, it cooks tender and soaks up all the spices beautifully.
• Ground Turkey: I prefer 93% lean for a nice balance of flavor and lean protein.
• Chopped Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with tomato paste.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor in a rich and sticky way.
• Canned Black Beans: Rinsed and drained to avoid extra sodium, they add a creamy texture.
• Corn Kernels: Fresh or frozen both work – they bring a subtle crunch and natural sweetness.
• Diced Tomato: Fresh tomatoes are best here for juicy bursts of flavor.
• Jalapeño: Just the right amount of spice and brightness; adjust based on your heat tolerance.
• Garlic: Minced for that aromatic punch.
• Chopped Cilantro: I love the freshness it adds both inside and as a garnish.
• Cumin: The warming spice that ties everything together.
• Kosher Salt: Helps to season all the flavors just right.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps things moist and adds subtle savory notes.
• Lime Wedges & Avocado: These are served on the side to brighten and add creaminess at serving.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the mood and what I have on hand. Feel free to get creative — that’s the best part of a skillet meal!

• Spicy Twist: I once added chipotle powder instead of cumin for a smoky heat that my family went nuts over.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground turkey for extra beans, lentils, or even chopped mushrooms for a hearty meat-free option.
• Seasonal Veggies: Try adding bell peppers or zucchini when they’re in season — it really brightens up the dish.
• Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese or queso fresco right at the end for a melty finish I swear by.

How to Make Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey

Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over high heat and spraying it lightly with oil. Add the ground turkey, seasoning it with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon cumin. Break it up as it cooks, and let it brown nicely — this should take around 5 minutes. You’ll want the turkey cooked through but still juicy, so keep an eye on the color and texture. When I rushed this step before, the turkey came out dry — so patience here is key!

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Tomato Paste

Push the turkey to one side of the skillet, spray the empty side with a bit more oil, and add your chopped onion along with the tomato paste. Cook for about a minute until the onion softens and the tomato paste gets slightly caramelized, which amps up the deep tomato flavor. Stir everything together gently so that tomato paste coats the turkey and onions — that sticky umami goodness is what really pulls this dish together.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Spices

Now toss in the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, diced tomato, jalapeño, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Pour in the chicken broth, then season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and the last 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Stir everything gently so the flavors start mingling. Cover the skillet and turn the heat down to low — this part lets the sweet potatoes soften perfectly without mushiness, about 12-14 minutes. I learned the hard way that rushing this step means crunchy potatoes, so keep that lid on and keep calm!

Step 4: Serve with Fresh Toppings

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, turn off the heat. Serve the skillet alongside slices of creamy avocado, fresh lime wedges, and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for that bright, fresh contrast. I love how the avocado adds a smooth richness to the earthy spices, and that splash of lime just wakes up all the flavors in the best way.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe

Garnishes

I always serve this skillet topped with creamy sliced avocado and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice — it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth. A handful of extra chopped cilantro brings that herbal freshness, and sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if I’m feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is so hearty, I like pairing it with simple sides like a crisp green salad or some warm flour tortillas to scoop it up. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a quick slaw with lime and chili flakes also complement it nicely if you want extra veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this skillet recipe over fluffy cilantro-lime rice or scooped into crispy taco shells for a fun taco night twist. It’s also fantastic layered in a warm tortilla bowl with crunchy tortilla strips and a drizzle of chipotle crema—you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I typically store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they keep beautifully fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so reheated leftovers are actually tastier the next day. Just make sure to cool it before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe freezes incredibly well. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and pop them in for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and reheat gently to preserve the sweet potato texture.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. Microwave works fine too — just cover loosely and stir halfway through so it heats evenly. Avoid overheating to keep the turkey tender and sweet potatoes intact.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Skillet with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Corn Recipe is one of those hearty, wholesome dishes that feels both nourishing and comforting. I’ve made it countless times for my family, and everyone always asks for seconds — even the kids! It’s quick to throw together, packed with goodness, and versatile enough to suit whatever ingredients you have on hand. If you’re craving a delicious, easy dinner that’s as satisfying as it is healthy, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try. You won’t regret bringing this colorful skillet into your kitchen rotation!

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