Turkey Sweet Potato Chili – Best Easy Recipe

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is the perfect blend of hearty ground turkey, naturally sweet chunks of sweet potato, and a rich, mildly spicy tomato broth. This one-pot, no-bean chili is ideal for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or warming up on crisp fall evenings. With its balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, it’s a wholesome comfort food you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile and healthy. Lean ground turkey keeps it light, while sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and a boost of nutrients. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days, and it’s naturally gluten-free. Whether you serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or fresh avocado, it’s a family-friendly meal that pleases everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Turkey: Provides a lean, protein-rich base with a mild flavor that lets the spices shine.
• Sweet Potatoes: Add natural sweetness, heartiness, and a boost of vitamins A and C.
• Onion: Builds the savory foundation and enhances aroma.
Garlic: Adds depth and robust flavor when sautéed.
• Petite Diced Tomatoes: Bring tangy freshness to balance the sweet potatoes.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates a thick, rich base for the chili.


• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and helps simmer the ingredients together.
• Chili Powder: The key spice for that classic chili warmth.
• Smoked Paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness.
• Ground Cumin: Adds earthy, aromatic notes.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances acidity from tomatoes.
• Frozen Corn: Brings pops of sweetness and texture.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

• Ground Chicken: A great alternative with similar flavor.
• Ground Beef or Pork: Adds a richer, more robust taste.
• Bell Peppers: Red, green, or orange for extra crunch and color.
• Beans: Black or pinto beans for added protein and fiber.
• Fresh Corn: Can replace frozen for a crisp, seasonal touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, sweet potatoes, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and sugar.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Add frozen corn, increase heat to medium-high, and cook for a few minutes until heated through and the liquid returns to a boil.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Tips for the Best Results

• Cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
• Always taste before serving—sometimes just a dash more salt can make flavors pop.
• Make extra for meal prep—flavors deepen beautifully after a day or two.
• If adding more vegetables or beans, adjust liquid and seasoning to keep balance.

Garnish & Serving Suggestions

• Fresh cilantro for brightness.
• Shredded cheddar cheese for creaminess.
• Avocado slices for richness.
• Cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping.
• Jalapeños or sour cream for a flavor boost.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Perfect Pairings & Variations

Pair this chili with skillet cornbread, a crisp fall harvest salad, or honey butter rolls for a cozy meal. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. To make it creamier, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.

This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is more than just a bowl of soup—it’s a comforting, nourishing meal that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve at casual gatherings.

Conclusion

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is the ultimate blend of hearty, healthy, and comforting flavors in one simple pot. Its tender chunks of sweet potato, lean ground turkey, and smoky spices create a meal that’s satisfying yet light enough for everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re serving it fresh for dinner, prepping it ahead for the week, or freezing it for a busy night, this no-bean chili will quickly become a household favorite. The balance of savory, sweet, and just the right amount of spice makes it a recipe worth keeping on repeat all year long.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Turkey Sweet Potato Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the ground turkey first in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker with all remaining ingredients. Cook on high for about 2 hours or on low for 4–5 hours, adding the corn in the last 30 minutes.

2. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, the flavors deepen as it sits, making it taste even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

3. What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?

You can substitute butternut squash, carrots, or even Yukon gold potatoes for a different twist while still keeping that hearty texture.

4. How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder to taste. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for adjustable heat.

More Relevant Recipes

  • Creamy White Chicken Chili: A rich and comforting chili made with tender chicken, creamy broth, and hearty spices. Perfect for fans of Turkey Sweet Potato Chili who want a creamier twist with similar warmth and coziness.
  • Spanish Potato Soup with Chorizo: This bold, smoky soup combines tender potatoes, flavorful chorizo, and aromatic spices, offering a satisfying, rustic dish that mirrors the hearty appeal of Turkey Sweet Potato Chili.
  • Easy Taco Soup Recipe: Packed with seasoned meat, vegetables, and zesty spices, this quick-cooking soup delivers a similar chili-style comfort with a fun Tex-Mex flavor profile.
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Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili


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  • Author: Elina
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty, healthy, no-bean chili featuring lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and a smoky-spiced tomato broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot comfort dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a balance of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors.


Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 sweet onion, diced
  • 5-7 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 28 oz canned petite diced tomatoes
  • 16 oz canned tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 large sweet potato (about 12 oz), cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Garnishes: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 sliced avocados


Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add ground turkey, breaking up any clumps. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until no longer pink.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cubed sweet potatoes, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and sugar. Mix well.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
  5. Add frozen corn, increase heat to medium-high, and cook for a few minutes until heated through and the liquid returns to a boil.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, cheese, avocado, or desired toppings.

Notes

  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end—sometimes an extra pinch of salt makes flavors pop.
  • For meal prep, double the batch and freeze half for up to 2 months.
  • Ground chicken or beef can be substituted for turkey.
  • Add beans or bell peppers for extra variety.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 577 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 1449 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 59 g
  • Fiber: 16 g
  • Protein: 39 g
  • Cholesterol: 72 mg

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