There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s brimming with wholesome ingredients and rich, savory flavor. This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili takes everything you love about classic chili and gives it a nourishing, satisfying twist. Made with lean ground turkey, chunks of naturally sweet potatoes, and a robust blend of spices, it’s the kind of dish that fills your home with an inviting aroma and your stomach with hearty goodness.
As the cooler months roll in, meals like this one become the heroes of the dinner table. Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prepping for the days ahead. It’s easy to make, stores well, and even tastes better the next day. The sweet and savory combination of ingredients not only creates depth in every bite, but also makes this recipe a family favorite.
Chili recipes have long been cherished for their ability to bring people together. There’s a communal aspect to a pot of chili simmering on the stove, inviting friends and family to gather around and share a meal. This version is no different—it’s hearty enough to please a crowd, yet balanced enough to enjoy as a nutritious everyday dinner.
Sweet potatoes add a natural creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the smoky chili powder and cumin. The ground turkey brings lean protein to the dish, making it filling without being heavy. You’ll also love the burst of freshness from diced tomatoes and the heartiness of black beans, rounding out the chili with texture and bold flavors.
This chili doesn’t rely on shortcuts or pre-made mixes. It’s all about real, accessible ingredients coming together in a harmonious way. You’ll find that every step in this recipe adds another layer of flavor. From sautéing the onions and garlic to letting the chili simmer and thicken, each element contributes to the final bowl of comfort.
It’s incredibly versatile too. Serve it with your favorite toppings—diced avocado, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream—or enjoy it just as it is. Whether you spoon it over rice, scoop it up with tortilla chips, or enjoy it straight from the bowl, you’re in for a treat.
Not only is this recipe delicious, it’s also wholesome. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins, while turkey offers a lean protein source. The black beans add more fiber and protein, making it a well-rounded and nourishing meal. It’s a great option for those seeking comfort food that still supports their health goals.
You’ll find that making chili from scratch is more satisfying than opening a can. The process allows you to control the ingredients and the seasoning, resulting in a dish that’s uniquely yours. Plus, it’s a great way to experiment with flavors and textures if you like a little culinary creativity in your kitchen.
This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is also freezer-friendly, which makes it ideal for batch cooking. Make a big pot on Sunday and store portions in the freezer for quick dinners on those days when cooking just isn’t in the cards. It reheats beautifully and maintains its texture and flavor.
Chili also offers a great canvas for customization. Want it spicier? Add jalapeños or cayenne. Prefer kidney beans over black beans? Go for it. You can even toss in corn or zucchini for an extra veggie boost. It’s your chili—make it how you love it.
Whether you’re serving a crowd or making a cozy meal for one, this recipe hits the spot. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and absolutely satisfying. You’ll soon find yourself making this chili again and again.
The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup after dinner. Everything simmers together in a single pot, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Less time washing dishes, more time enjoying your meal.
From its bold spices to its creamy sweet potatoes and lean turkey, this chili is comfort food with a nourishing twist. It’s the kind of dish you crave when the weather turns chilly or when you need a dinner that feels like a warm hug.
So grab your biggest pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a chili that’s sure to become a staple in your home. With just the right balance of hearty and healthy, this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is everything a great dinner should be.
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Tips:
- Dice sweet potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want extra heat.
- For thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s hearty, wholesome, and loaded with flavor.
- Sweet potatoes add a unique twist to classic chili.
- Ground turkey makes it lean and filling.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
- Family-friendly and great for gatherings.
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a cozy, satisfying meal packed with lean protein, sweet vegetables, and bold spices. It’s easy to make in one pot and perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. Top it with your favorites and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s both nourishing and delicious.
