This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day. With tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and a mix of spices, it’s packed with flavor!
It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! I love how easy it is to make—just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer while you kick back. Perfect for chilly nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: A lean protein choice that keeps the chili light. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground chicken or lean beef. You could even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option!
Sweet Potatoes: They add a slight sweetness and creamy texture. If you don’t have them, try butternut squash or regular potatoes as a substitute. Both will work well!
Black Beans: They add heartiness and protein. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans can be used instead. Canned beans are a huge time-saver, too!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for flavor. Feel free to adjust the chili powder for more heat, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy!
How Can I Make Sure My Chili is Packed with Flavor?
Flavor building is crucial in chili. Firstly, don’t rush the cooking of the onions and garlic; letting them soften brings out their sweetness and depth of flavor. Brown the turkey well in the pan to develop that delicious flavor base.
- Toast your spices with the meat! This really enhances their flavors.
- Let your chili simmer to meld all the ingredients. If you can, give it time—flavors develop better as it sits!
- Remember, tasting as you cook is key! Adjust seasoning as needed throughout the process.
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet Potato Turkey Chili requires about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll get a hearty meal ready in about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This brings a lovely sweetness to your chili.
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—nobody likes burnt garlic!
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. This step is what gives your chili great flavor.
4. Toast the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for just 1 minute. This toasting step helps bring out the flavors of the spices!
5. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be tender and the chili to thicken a little.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt, spices, or even a pinch of sugar if you like. It’s all about making it your own!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds a nice creamy contrast!
Enjoy your cozy and nutritious Sweet Potato Turkey Chili!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose; different meats may require different cooking durations.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Chili?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Add them in along with the sweet potatoes so they cook thoroughly.
What Can I Serve with Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?
This chili is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, over rice, or alongside tortilla chips. A fresh salad or some simple avocado slices can also complement the meal nicely!
