Description
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Enjoy the flavors of Fall with this comforting and healthy twist on classic chili. Turkey Sweet Potato Chili brings together ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and a delicious blend of spices for a hearty meal perfect for cool weather. This one-pot wonder is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to warm you right up! Serve with your favorite garnishes like avocado, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips.
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, cubed
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp sugar
1 cup frozen corn
Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish: cilantro, cheese, avocado
Directions:
1. Saute onion and garlic in oil, add turkey, and cook until browned.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, sweet potatoes, spices; simmer 15 mins.
3. Stir in corn, season, and cook another 5 mins.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 577
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and peel and cube the sweet potato into 1/2-inch pieces. Measure out all spices.
2. Brown the Aromatics & Turkey: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains.
3. Build the Chili Base: To the pot, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, chicken broth, cubed sweet potato, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and sugar. Stir thoroughly to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Final Touches: Stir in the frozen corn. Season generously with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to heat the corn and slightly thicken the chili. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili hot in deep bowls. Top with fresh chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. For added crunch and texture, offer a side of tortilla chips or warm cornbread. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pot chili is made by sautéing onion, garlic, and turkey, then simmering with tomatoes, broth, sweet potatoes, and spices until the potatoes are tender. Finish by stirring in corn and adjusting the seasoning. Top with your favorite garnishes for a complete, comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes. Brown the turkey with the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything except the corn to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4, adding the corn in the last 30 minutes.
How can I make it spicier? Add a diced jalapeño with the onions, increase the chili powder, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey? Absolutely. Lean ground beef is a direct 1:1 substitute and will yield a richer, more traditional chili flavor.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Is this chili freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes excellently. Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Cut them into uniform, small cubes to ensure they cook through in the simmering time without becoming mushy.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Taking the time to properly brown the turkey adds crucial depth of flavor. Don’t just steam it in the pot.
- Underseasoning: Chili powders vary in potency. Always taste at the end and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to your preference.
- Adding Corn Too Early: Stir frozen corn in at the very end to retain its sweet pop and texture; it only needs to heat through.
Conclusion
This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is the ultimate fusion of healthy comfort food. It’s straightforward to prepare, nourishing, and packed with the warm, autumnal flavors of sweet potato and smoky spices. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this versatile recipe is sure to become a seasonal staple in your home.