If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both nourishing and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe is an absolute winner. With tender ground turkey cooked to perfection alongside crisp green beans and sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes, this dish balances tastes and textures beautifully. It’s quick, wholesome, and something that can please everyone at the table, making it a fast favorite to keep in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s satisfying and colorful. From sweet potatoes that add a hint of natural sweetness and creaminess, to ground turkey offering lean protein with a juicy bite, and green beans bringing a fresh snap and bright color — these simple, accessible ingredients come together perfectly.
- 4 oz ground turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a juicy, healthy protein base.
- 1 medium sweet potato (diced into 1/2-inch cubes): Adds sweetness and a tender texture after roasting or sautéing.
- 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces): Provides a crisp, fresh contrast and vibrant green color.
- 2 eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the dish if you want a little fluffiness.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Essential for cooking everything evenly and infusing a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors and balances out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the taste.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: Brings warmth and a smoky undertone without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a savory aroma that complements both meat and veggies.
How to Make Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and trimming your green beans, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Peel and dice your sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes, making sure they’re relatively uniform for even cooking. Having everything prepped before you start cooking will make the process flow smoothly and keep your kitchen calm and organized.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes so they get a lovely golden caramelization, then stir occasionally until tender and slightly crispy on the edges, about 8-10 minutes. This step brings out that wonderful natural sweetness and a little texture contrast.
Step 3: Sauté the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Toss them together and let them cook until the beans are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. You want them to retain a little snap to balance the softness of the sweet potatoes.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Turkey
In a separate pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Crumble in the ground turkey and season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned all over and cooked through, roughly 6 to 8 minutes. This is where the juicy part really comes alive — make sure not to overcook it, or it might dry out.
Step 5: Combine and Add Eggs
Once the turkey is ready, add it to the skillet with the sweet potatoes and green beans. Crack in the eggs and stir well to combine everything. The eggs will lightly coat the mixture, binding the ingredients with a little silkiness and added protein, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your plate by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top. A squeeze of lemon juice can also lift the dish with a zesty contrast to the savory and sweet flavors. For an extra touch, some toasted nuts like slivered almonds or chopped pecans add crunch and a bit of richness.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but you could serve it alongside a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty whole grain bread to soak up any juices. A simple side of quinoa or brown rice pairs well, providing a wholesome grain that complements the lean protein and veggies beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a warm family-style meal, serve it straight from the skillet, letting everyone dig in. Alternatively, arrange it neatly on individual plates, separating the sweet potatoes, turkey, and green beans for a cleaner look. For an on-the-go option, pack it into meal prep containers, layering for texture and ease of reheating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooking, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining both flavor and texture.
Freezing
This Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It’s best used within 2 months to preserve freshness and avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover loosely to retain moisture and heat in short bursts to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well in this recipe, offering a similarly mild flavor and lean protein. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may cook a bit faster.
Is it necessary to add eggs to this dish?
The eggs add a lovely binding and richness, but if you prefer, you can leave them out or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like a flax egg. The dish will still be tasty and satisfying.
Can I roast the sweet potatoes and green beans instead of sautéing?
Yes, roasting is a fantastic way to enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes and give the green beans a subtle char. Roast them at 425°F until tender and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes, then combine with the cooked turkey.
What seasonings can I add to change up the flavor profile?
Try adding some cumin and chili powder for a southwestern twist, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic touch. A splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also take the dish in exciting new directions.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe holds up really well for meal prepping. It’s nutritious, filling, and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels as good as it tastes. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels special but is actually very easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Juicy Ground Turkey with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This recipe features juicy ground turkey cooked to perfection alongside tender green beans and sweet potato cubes, all seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Enhanced with scrambled eggs, this dish provides a balanced, nutritious, and flavorful meal ideal for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 oz ground turkey
- 2 eggs
Vegetables
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and trim the green beans, cutting them into 1-inch pieces. Peel and dice the sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and allow it to warm.
- Cook the ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Break the meat apart and cook for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink and lightly browned.
- Add the sweet potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes with the turkey in the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the green beans: Incorporate the green beans into the skillet with the turkey and sweet potatoes. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and green beans are crisp-tender.
- Cook the eggs: In a separate small pan, lightly scramble the two eggs over low-medium heat until just set.
- Combine and serve: Mix the scrambled eggs into the skillet with ground turkey and vegetables. Stir well to combine and heat through for a minute before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sweet potato with regular potatoes if desired, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the turkey.
- This meal is perfect for meal prepping; store in airtight containers and reheat gently before eating.
- Ensure the ground turkey is cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
