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Fall Turkey Chili with Sweet Potatoes

This hearty chili combines ground turkey and roasted sweet potatoes simmered with warm spices like cumin and garlic. The dish develops a thick, chunky texture with a rich, savory flavor complemented by subtle sweetness, finished with a vibrant, garnished appearance.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and chopped into chunks
  • 1 lb ground turkey lean
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the chopped sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and toss to coat. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized around the edges.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  2. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin; cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm aroma.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  4. Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, along with the broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  6. Drain and rinse the black beans, then stir them into the chili mixture. Season with salt and black pepper, and allow the chili to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  7. Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and tender, gently fold them into the chili, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
    2 large sweet potatoes
  8. Check the seasoning and adjust salt or pepper if needed. The chili should be thick, hearty, and slightly chunky, with the sweet potatoes providing a inviting pop of color and texture.
  9. Spoon the steaming chili into bowls, garnish as desired, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for autumn evenings.