Amazing Sweet Potato Turkey Chili's 1-Pot Magic

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Sweet Potato Turkey Chili has become my go-to comfort food, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! It’s a truly hearty and flavorful dish that’s much more than just your average chili. I remember the first time I tried adding sweet potatoes to my ground turkey chili; the natural sweetness and creamy texture completely transformed it, making it a standout meal. The aroma of the spices mingling with the savory turkey and tender sweet potato chunks is just incredible, creating a truly nutritious turkey chili with sweet potato that warms you from the inside out. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This chili isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with benefits that make it a winner for any meal:

It’s incredibly hearty and satisfying, perfect for a filling meal.
The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the savory flavors.
It’s a wonderfully nutritious turkey chili, packed with vitamins and fiber.
Cleanup is a breeze thanks to its one-pot preparation.
This is an easy sweet potato turkey chili that even beginners can master.
It’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for picky eaters or adventurous palates.
The combination of turkey and sweet potato makes for a comforting and warming dish.
It’s a fantastic option for meal prepping and lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Gathering these ingredients will set you up for the most delicious ground turkey and sweet potato chili. I always make sure my sweet potatoes are peeled and diced into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. For the best flavor, use a good quality ground turkey – I prefer a 93% lean blend.

1 lb ground turkey – gives the chili a savory base
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – about 3 cups, for natural sweetness and texture
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – adds fiber and a creamy texture
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – for heartiness and protein
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – forms the rich, flavorful broth
1 medium onion, diced – adds aromatic depth
3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic chili aroma
2 cups vegetable broth – helps create the perfect chili consistency
2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 tablespoon chili powder – the heart of our chili flavor
1 teaspoon cumin – adds a warm, earthy note
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a touch of smokiness
1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a little kick
1 bell pepper, diced (color of your choice) – for added crunch and sweetness
Optional toppings: cilantro, sour cream, avocado, cheddar cheese – to personalize your bowl

How to Make Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Making this chili is a joy, and it’s truly an easy sweet potato turkey chili to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. If you’re short on time, remember you can adapt this for a slow cooker too!

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat it over medium heat until it shimmers.
Step 2: Add 1 lb ground turkey to the hot pot. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. The savory aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Step 3: Toss in 1 medium onion, diced, and 1 bell pepper, diced. Sauté these with the turkey for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften and their sweet fragrance is released. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant.
Step 4: Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything well, letting the spices toast for about 30 seconds to deepen their flavor.
Step 5: Now, add the star ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced. Give them a good stir to coat them in the spiced turkey mixture.
Step 6: Pour in 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed, and 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes. Stir it all together until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Add 2 cups vegetable broth, making sure all the ingredients are submerged and ready to simmer. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 8: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes. Stir every so often to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. For a slow cooker sweet potato turkey chili, you’d typically cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours after combining all ingredients.
Step 9: Taste your creation and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt or a pinch more chili powder.
Step 10: Ladle your piping hot chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes!

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this chili absolutely sing. Here are my go-to tips for the perfect bowl every time:

Don’t skip toasting the spices! A quick 30 seconds in the pot before adding liquids really blooms their flavor.
Use good quality ground turkey – I find a 93/7 lean ratio gives the best balance of flavor and moisture.
For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste with the garlic in Step 3.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. This is crucial for any chili!

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?

The real secret to the best sweet potato turkey chili is in the balance of sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the earthy spices and savory turkey perfectly. Don’t be afraid to let it simmer gently to allow those flavors to meld beautifully. For more on balancing flavors, check out these culinary principles.

Can I make Sweet Potato Turkey Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to deepen. It’s perfect for meal prep. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days before cooking. You can learn more about my approach to meal prep here.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?

A common pitfall is overcooking the sweet potatoes, making them mushy. Ensure they are just fork-tender. Also, avoid over-simmering after adding the beans, as they can become too soft. Stirring occasionally prevents the bottom from scorching. For more tips on cooking vegetables, you might find resources on culinary techniques helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This versatile chili is wonderful served on its own, but I love dressing it up! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, some fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese are my favorite ways to finish a bowl. For those who like a little heat, you can pair this chili with a side of cornbread or even some tortilla chips if you’re craving a bit of crunch. If you’re aiming for a truly spicy sweet potato turkey chili, a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños on top will do the trick!

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

When you make this delicious chili, you’re getting a bowl full of goodness. Here’s a look at what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 380 kcal – a satisfying amount for a meal
Fat: 12g – providing healthy fats
Protein: 22g – thanks to the lean ground turkey and beans
Carbohydrates: N/A – from the sweet potatoes and beans
Fiber: N/A – supporting digestion

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult a registered dietitian.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is how well it keeps, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Once your chili has finished cooking, let it cool down completely on the counter for about an hour. This is important to prevent condensation in your storage containers, which can affect texture. I like to portion my leftover turkey chili into airtight containers – glass or BPA-free plastic work great. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, and it reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can find more storage tips here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

What makes this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili so good?

It’s the combination of savory ground turkey, the natural sweetness and creamy texture of sweet potatoes, and the warming blend of spices. This recipe is designed to be flavorful and satisfying, offering a comforting meal that’s also packed with nutrients. It’s truly a standout dish!

How do I make sweet potato turkey chili healthier?

This recipe is already quite healthy, featuring lean ground turkey and plenty of vegetables. To make it even healthier, you could reduce the amount of added salt, use low-sodium broth, and opt for topping with fresh cilantro and avocado instead of cheese or sour cream. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal that supports your wellness goals. For more healthy eating advice, visit our homepage.

Can I add other vegetables to my Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your chili with other favorite vegetables. Diced carrots, corn, zucchini, or even some chopped celery would be delicious additions. Just make sure to dice them to a similar size as the sweet potatoes so they cook evenly. It’s a fantastic way to boost the nutritional profile and flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of this chili?

Leftovers of this chili store beautifully! Once cooled, transfer the chili to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Variations of Sweet Potato Turkey Chili You Can Try

This recipe is a fantastic base, and I love experimenting to keep things fresh. Here are a few ways I like to switch up my Sweet Potato Turkey Chili:

Spicy Kick: For a truly spicy sweet potato turkey chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño along with the onions and bell peppers in Step 3. You can also stir in a swirl of your favorite hot sauce just before serving.
Slow Cooker Magic: Adapt this for a slow cooker sweet potato turkey chili by browning the turkey and sautéing the onions, bell peppers, and garlic on the stovetop first (Steps 1-3). Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Vegetarian Twist: While this is a turkey chili, you can easily make a delicious vegetarian version by swapping the ground turkey for an extra can of beans (like pinto or cannellini) or some crumbled firm tofu. It’s still a wonderfully healthy turkey chili with sweet potato, just plant-based!
Smoky Chipotle Flavor: For a smoky, roasted flavor, add 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced) along with the other spices in Step 4. This adds a wonderful depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.