If you’re craving a bowl that’s hearty, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This delightful dish brings together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the savory punch of spiced ground turkey, all topped with creamy guacamole, tangy feta, and fresh cilantro. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that feels both nourishing and indulgent, ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner with minimal fuss but maximum impact.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating this bowl’s irresistible taste and texture. From the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the creamy richness of the guacamole and feta, every component shines through beautifully.
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Choose firm, bright sweet potatoes for natural sweetness and a tender roast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve perfectly roasted, golden sweet potatoes with a subtle richness.
- 1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein base that soaks up spices and adds satisfying heartiness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky depth that elevates the turkey’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Offers a gentle kick of spice without overpowering the dish.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all flavors.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Bright and juicy tomatoes cut through the richness and add freshness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh, vibrant herbal note that lifts the whole bowl.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese: Adds a salty, creamy tang that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 cup guacamole: Creamy, luscious, and packed with healthy fats for satisfying indulgence.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm ingredients.
- 1 lime (cut into wedges): A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens and ties all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and slice those gorgeous sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes, whatever suits your style. Toss them generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and tender. This roasting step brings out their natural sweetness and gives them that slight caramelized edge we all love.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
While your sweet potatoes roast, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add your ground turkey. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, then break it up, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 7 minutes. You want a nice even browning to create rich flavor and texture that complements the sweetness of your potatoes.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
Now it’s time to amp up the flavor. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices meld into the turkey by cooking for another 2 minutes until you catch that warm, fragrant aroma filling your kitchen. This seasoning blend gives the turkey a smoky, slightly spicy personality that makes this bowl so memorable.
Step 4: Prep the Fresh Toppings
While the turkey finishes, dice the tomatoes, chop the fresh cilantro, crumble your feta or cotija cheese, and shred the lettuce. These fresh toppings add brightness, texture, and a burst of contrasting flavors that balance the warmth and heartiness of the cooked ingredients. Don’t forget to cut the lime into wedges to bring a zesty finish to your bowl.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Time for the fun part. In a bowl, layer the roasted sweet potatoes first—they make a cozy, colorful base. Add a generous helping of the seasoned ground turkey on top, then layer on shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, dollops of guacamole, crumbled cheese, and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Just before diving in, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything to brighten the flavors and bring all the elements together beautifully.
How to Serve Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe
Garnishes
This bowl is a canvas for fresh and vibrant garnishes. A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a handful of chopped green onions adds a crisp herbal touch. If you love a bit more heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños can give a tantalizing spicy kick perfectly balanced by the creamy guacamole.
Side Dishes
Though this bowl is quite filling on its own, pairing it with a simple side salad or some warm, crusty bread can round out the meal beautifully. A light cucumber and tomato salad with a splash of vinegar pairs effortlessly, enhancing the fresh flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Serve the components deconstructed on a platter, allowing everyone to build their own bowls. Or stack the ingredients in a clear glass jar for a stunning layered presentation, perfect for meal prep or a colorful lunch box option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the sweet potatoes and cooked turkey separately from the fresher toppings in airtight containers. This bowl keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays.
Freezing
While the sweet potatoes and ground turkey freeze well if stored separately, guacamole and fresh toppings do not freeze properly. For best results, freeze only the cooked components and thaw in the fridge overnight. Then add fresh toppings when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat the sweet potatoes and turkey gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep textures pleasant. Add fresh lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, cilantro, and cheese only after reheating for the best eating experience.
FAQs
Can I use white meat turkey breast instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey breast will work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as it can become dry if overcooked. Adding a bit more olive oil or moisture can help keep it juicy.
Is there a dairy-free option for the feta cheese?
Yes! You can easily swap out the feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit it. The guacamole adds plenty of creaminess and flavor, so the bowl remains satisfying.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground turkey with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegan cheese or skip it, and you still get an incredibly tasty and nutritious bowl.
What’s the best way to store guacamole for this recipe?
Keep guacamole in an airtight container with a thin layer of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize browning. Use it within 2 days for optimum freshness when paired with this bowl.
Can I prep this recipe ahead for meal prep?
Yes, the Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Roast the sweet potatoes and cook the turkey in advance, store components separately, and assemble with fresh toppings when ready.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something that feels wholesome but exciting at the same time. The combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and fresh elements all in one bowl makes every bite a real treat. I hope you love making—and eating—it as much as I do!
Print
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl with Feta, Cilantro, and Guacamole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bowl is a nutritious and flavorful meal combining roasted sweet potatoes with spiced ground turkey, fresh veggies, creamy guacamole, and tangy cheese. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner, it balances protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Ground Turkey Mixture
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Roast Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and tender, turning halfway through for even cooking.
- Cook Ground Turkey: While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
- Season Turkey: Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the browned turkey. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to become fragrant and meld with the meat.
- Prepare Toppings: Dice the tomatoes, chop the fresh cilantro, crumble the feta or cotija cheese, shred the lettuce, and have guacamole and lime wedges ready to assemble the bowl.
- Assemble Bowl: In serving bowls, layer the roasted sweet potatoes as the base. Top with the seasoned ground turkey, then add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, guacamole, crumbled cheese, and chopped cilantro. Finish each bowl with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the turkey while cooking.
- Sweet potatoes can be roasted a day ahead to save time; reheat before assembling.
- Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese entirely to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas on the side for a more filling meal.
