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Sweet Potato Turkey Chili Recipe

This hearty chili combines lean ground turkey and sweet potatoes simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, seasoned with warming spices. The dish has a thick, comforting texture with tender sweet potatoes and a rich, aromatic broth, perfect for cozy fall nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and cutting board
  • can opener

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, fire-roasted if possible
  • 1 can kidney or black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
  • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
  • Add the diced sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the chili becomes too thick, add a splash of broth to reach your preferred consistency.
  • Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced green onions.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground turkey for lentils or extra beans. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference, adding more chili powder or cayenne for heat.