This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a warm, hearty dish that hits the spot! It’s packed with lean turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and a mix of spices that bring everything together.
Perfect for chilly days, this chili is like a big hug in a bowl! I love to top it with a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an extra treat—so cozy and good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is great for a healthier chili. You can substitute it with lean ground beef or chicken if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you don’t have them, butternut squash or regular potatoes work well too. Just adjust the cooking time if using other types.
Black Beans: Black beans provide protein and fiber. If you don’t have these, kidney beans or pinto beans can be swapped in. Canned beans save a lot of time, but cooked dry beans work if you have them on hand.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key flavor boosters. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance. If you like more heat, add extra cayenne or even diced fresh jalapeños!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Chili?
Getting great flavor in your chili involves layering ingredients and letting them meld together. Here are some steps to follow:
- Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft. This builds a strong flavor base.
- Add garlic right after the onions for a quick cook. Garlic can burn, and this step keeps it aromatic without overwhelming the dish.
- Don’t skip browning the turkey properly. This not only adds flavor but also develops texture.
- Simmer the chili long enough for the sweet potatoes to become soft, usually about 25-30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to mix and deepen.
- Taste before serving! Adjust salt and spices to get that perfect balance.
Enjoy making this chili! It’s all about layering flavors and using good ingredients to create a warming dish.
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet Potato Turkey Chili takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and around 30-35 minutes for cooking, bringing the total to about 45-50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. This builds a flavorful base for your chili!
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can start to smell that lovely garlic aroma in your kitchen!
3. Cook the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir it until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the chili lean.
4. Incorporate the Veggies and Beans:
Now, it’s time to add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Season the Chili:
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix it all well so that the spices spread evenly throughout.
6. Simmer for Flavor:
Bring the chili to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This will allow the sweet potatoes to become nice and tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before you serve, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This ensures every bowl tastes just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Enjoy this comforting dish on a chilly day!
This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is nutritious, hearty, and full of flavor. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground turkey with lean ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, especially for meats that may have different fat content.
Can I Make This Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! After sautéing the onion and garlic, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop even more!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Chili?
Great toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra heat!
