If you are looking for a cozy, hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor with a healthy twist, this Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe is going to be your new go-to comfort food. The combination of lean ground turkey and naturally sweet, tender sweet potatoes melds perfectly with a lively blend of spices, creating a chili that’s vibrant, satisfying, and just the right amount of spicy. This dish not only warms you up on chilly days but also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas that promise good things ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and wholesome, each playing an essential role in building the rich layers of flavor, vibrant colors, and comforting textures in this chili. From the creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes to the smoky warmth of chipotle powder, the ingredients work in harmony to deliver a memorable dish.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil: Preferred for its high smoke point, perfect for sautéing without burning flavors.
- 1 onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces): Adds a subtle sweetness and builds the base flavor for the chili.
- 4 garlic cloves (freshly minced): Fresh garlic provides a pungent aroma and depth that canned or pre-minced can’t match.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that soaks up spices beautifully, keeping the chili healthy and hearty.
- 1 lb sweet potato (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes): Adds natural sweetness and a velvety texture contrast within the chili.
- 30 oz crushed tomatoes: Use a high-quality brand like Muir Glen for a sweeter, less acidic tomato base.
- 1.25 cup chicken broth: Enhances the chili’s richness and creates a perfect stew-like consistency.
- 2.5 tbsp chili powder: The chili’s signature spice that ties all the flavors together.
- 2.5 tsp cumin: Adds smoky earthiness vital for authentic chili flavor.
- 1.5 tsp paprika: For mild warmth and a gorgeous color boost.
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon: A secret ingredient giving the chili subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Just enough heat to awaken the palate without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp chipotle powder: Brings smoky heat that complements the sweetness of the potato.
- 2 tsp salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing every flavor note.
- 3/4 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle peppery sharpness.
- 15 oz corn: Adds pops of sweetness and texture contrast.
- 15 oz black beans (rinsed and drained): Provides protein and a creamy bite without overpowering the turkey.
- Sour cream: For serving, adds a cooling creaminess to balance the spices.
- Cilantro: Fresh herbaceous notes that brighten every spoonful.
How to Make Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Aromatics
Start by heating the avocado oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the fresh minced garlic and cook it for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics create the flavor foundation that will make your chili irresistible.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it apart with a spoon. Let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Browning the turkey thoroughly develops a rich umami character that forms the heart of your chili.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices
Stir in the sweet potato cubes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, chipotle powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing the spices directly with the turkey and potatoes helps the flavors bloom and blend beautifully as they cook.
Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth
Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth into the pot, giving everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. This step lets the ingredients meld and develop complexity while the sweet potatoes soften to tender perfection.
Step 5: Add Corn and Black Beans
About 10 minutes before the chili has finished cooking, stir in the corn and rinsed black beans. This will warm them through without losing their texture, keeping the chili hearty and full of contrasting bites.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
Let the chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chili will thicken and deepen in flavor, making it ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep.
How to Serve Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like dollops of cool sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro lift this chili to the next level. They add necessary creaminess and a burst of freshness to cut through the spice and richness.
Side Dishes
This chili shines on its own but pairs beautifully with warm cornbread, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad to add textural contrast and complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this chili topped with crunchy tortilla strips, shredded cheddar, or avocado slices. You can also use it as a topping for baked sweet potatoes or as a hearty filling for stuffed peppers, offering a creative spin on the classic bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making leftovers a delicious option for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the chili in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during storage to restore its perfect chili consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps this chili lean and light, ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based proteins can be swapped in depending on your preference.
Is this chili spicy?
This Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe strikes a nice balance with mild to moderate heat, thanks to the chili powder, cayenne, and chipotle. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste by reducing or increasing these ingredients.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the ground turkey and add extra beans or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What type of sweet potatoes work best?
Medium to large orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are ideal as they soften nicely and add natural sweetness. Be sure to cut them into even cubes for uniform cooking.
How thick should the chili be?
It should be thick and hearty but still have enough liquid to be spoonable. If it becomes too thick after resting, simply stir in a little more broth or water when reheating.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe. It’s nourishing, packed with flavor, and full of textures that delight every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or want a comforting dish to savor during cooler evenings, this chili has you covered. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a bowl that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
Print
Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Warming Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and nutritious meal that combines lean ground turkey with sweet potatoes, beans, and a flavorful blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this chili offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and warming spices to keep you satisfied and energized.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (preferably Chosen Foods for its high smoke point)
- 1 onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 garlic cloves, freshly minced for best aroma
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 lb sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Liquids
- 30 oz crushed tomatoes (Muir Glen for sweeter, less acidic flavor)
- 1.25 cup chicken broth
Spices
- 2.5 tbsp chili powder
- 2.5 tsp cumin
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp chipotle powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
Add-ins
- 15 oz corn
- 15 oz black beans, rinsed and drained
Garnishes
- Sour cream
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
- Cook Ground Turkey: Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the pot. Stir and cook thoroughly until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in 1 pound of peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, coating them in the spices and turkey mixture.
- Spice It Up: Mix in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add Beans and Corn: Stir in rinsed black beans and corn. Continue simmering for another 5-10 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with sour cream and fresh cilantro as desired for creamy and fresh accents.
Notes
- Use avocado oil for its high smoke point and mild flavor that won’t overpower the chili.
- Rinsing canned beans helps reduce sodium and improves texture.
- Adjust cayenne and chipotle powder levels to suit your preferred spice level.
- Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber, balancing the chili’s heat.
- Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
