Sweet Potato Turkey Chili: 1 Amazing Recipe

Sweet potato turkey chili has become my absolute go-to for those crisp autumn evenings when I crave something warm, comforting, and incredibly delicious. I still remember the first time I made it after discovering this amazing recipe; the aroma of spices slowly simmering with tender turkey and sweet potato filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. It’s so satisfying to know that this flavorful dish is also a wonderfully healthy turkey sweet potato chili. If you’ve ever wondered how to make sweet potato turkey chili that’s both hearty and nourishing, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This chili is a winner for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: A perfect balance of savory turkey, sweet potato, and warming spices creates a taste you’ll crave.
• Quick Prep: With just about 15 minutes of prep, you can get this delicious chili on the stove or in the slow cooker fast.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fiber, it’s a wonderfully healthy turkey sweet potato chili option.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients like ground turkey and pantry staples, making it easy on your wallet.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love the comforting taste and tender chunks in this turkey and sweet potato chili.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or a kick of extra spice.
• Nourishing Meal: This hearty turkey and sweet potato chili provides a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating your delicious ground turkey sweet potato chili. I love how simple and wholesome everything is!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
• 1 pound lean ground turkey – the heart of our chili
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped – about 1 cup, adds a sweet base. Onions are a nutritional powerhouse!
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – for that essential pungent flavor
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½ -inch cubes – these tender, sweet chunks are key
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – undrained, for liquid and tomatoey goodness. Cherry tomatoes are also a great option.
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed – adds texture and fiber
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed – classic chili bean for heartiness
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – helps meld the flavors and create the perfect consistency
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – for a concentrated tomato flavor boost
• 2 teaspoons chili powder – the primary spice for that chili essence
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – adds an earthy, warm depth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a lovely smoky undertone
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – a classic herb that complements chili
• Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors

How to Make Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Making this comforting chili is super straightforward, whether you’re using your stovetop or your trusty slow cooker. I love how the aroma of the spices and sweet potato fills the house as it simmers.

Stovetop Method

1. Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it starts to soften and smell sweet. Then, stir in 3 garlic cloves, minced, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
2. Step 2: Add 1 pound lean ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains, which usually takes about 5–6 minutes. Season the turkey with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Step 3: Now for the stars of the show! Stir in the 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½ -inch cubes, along with 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat everything in those warm, earthy spices. This really helps bloom the flavors.
4. Step 4: Add 2 tablespoons tomato paste and stir it in well. Pour in the 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with their juice), the drained and rinsed 1 (15 oz) can black beans and 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, and 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Give everything a good mix to combine all those delicious ingredients.
5. Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the chili has thickened beautifully. This is where the magic happens, creating a truly satisfying turkey chili with chunks of sweet potato.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let the chili rest off the heat for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making for an even better turkey chili with chunks of sweet potato.
7. Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings like avocado, green onions, or a squeeze of lime.

Crockpot Method

For an even easier approach, try this slow cooker sweet potato turkey chili. First, brown the ground turkey with the onion and garlic on the stovetop as described in Steps 1 and 2. Transfer this mixture to your 6-quart crockpot. Add the diced sweet potato, beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and all the spices. Stir everything together. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are perfectly tender and the chili is heated through.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this chili from good to absolutely amazing. These simple tips ensure you get the most flavor and the perfect texture every time.

• Evenly dice your sweet potatoes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t skip blooming the spices; toasting them briefly with the sweet potatoes and turkey intensifies their flavor.
• If the chili gets too thick for your liking, a splash more chicken broth or water will fix it.
• For a deeper flavor, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.

What’s the secret to perfect sweet potato turkey chili?

The secret to the best sweet potato turkey chili lies in properly browning the turkey and blooming the spices. This process builds a rich flavor base that carries through the entire dish. For more on cooking techniques, you might find resources on culinary science helpful.

Can I make sweet potato turkey chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread.

How do I avoid common mistakes with turkey and sweet potato chili?

A common pitfall is cutting the sweet potatoes too large, which can lead to uneven cooking. Also, be careful not to overcook the turkey; it should be browned but still moist. Lastly, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end! Learning about the benefits of onions can also enhance your cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This hearty chili is incredibly versatile and delicious on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. It’s a wonderfully satisfying way to enjoy a bowl of chili with turkey and sweet potato.

For a classic combination, serve it with some warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread is the perfect counterpoint to the savory chili. You could also serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa for an extra hearty meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a nice fresh contrast to the richness of the chili. Consider a chickpea salad for a lighter option.

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Here are the approximate nutritional details for one serving of this delicious chili. I love that it’s packed with nutrients!

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 550mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights and a great example of healthy fall chili recipes. Once it’s cooled down a bit, I like to transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy later. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for grabbing a quick lunch or dinner. For longer storage, this chili freezes beautifully. You can store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop a portion in the microwave until heated through. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a bowl of clean fall meals any time! This recipe is a great alternative to spaghetti with mushroom sauce on a cold day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

What is sweet potato turkey chili?

Sweet potato turkey chili is a hearty, flavorful stew made with lean ground turkey, sweet potato chunks, beans, and a blend of warming chili spices like cumin and chili powder. It’s a comforting and nutritious dish, often seasoned with onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes, offering a delightful sweet and savory balance.

Why make sweet potato turkey chili?

You’ll want to make this chili because it’s incredibly satisfying, packed with healthy ingredients like lean turkey and fiber-rich beans and sweet potatoes, and it’s relatively easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, offering a delicious way to get your vegetables and protein in one bowl.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

While this recipe is designed for turkey, you can easily adapt it to be vegetarian. Simply omit the ground turkey and increase the beans and sweet potatoes, or add a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu. You might also want to add a bit more vegetable broth to compensate for the moisture from the meat. For a vegetarian option, consider a veggie burger.

How spicy is this sweet potato turkey chili?

The standard recipe has a mild to medium spice level, primarily from the chili powder and cumin. If you prefer a spicier kick, I highly recommend adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic in Step 1. You can always add more heat to your own bowl!

Variations of Sweet Potato Turkey Chili You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to switch up this delicious chili! I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things exciting.

• Spicy Sweet Potato Turkey Chili: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño with the onions. You can also stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce just before serving to create a truly spicy sweet potato turkey chili.
• Low Carb Sweet Potato Turkey Chili: If you’re watching your carbs, simply reduce the amount of sweet potato and beans, or omit the beans entirely. You can bulk it up with extra lean ground turkey or add more non-starchy vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to create a satisfying low carb sweet potato turkey chili.
• Hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Stew: Make it more stew-like by adding an extra cup of chicken broth and perhaps some diced bell peppers or corn kernels. This variation transforms it into a wonderfully hearty dish perfect for a chilly day.
• Vegetarian Sweet Potato Chili: For a meatless option, swap the ground turkey for an extra can of beans (like pinto or cannellini) or add crumbled firm tofu. Ensure you use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian meal.

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