After a long day at work, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm, hearty stew bubbling away in the kitchen. This Easy Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew has become my go-to comfort food for those chilly evenings when all I want is a nourishing meal that takes zero effort. Imagine tender turkey mingling with velvety sweet potatoes, creating a delightful medley of flavors as it slow-cooks throughout the day.
The beauty of this stew lies not just in its deliciousness, but also in its simplicity—just toss, turn on, and savor the magic that unfolds. It’s packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, making it a family-friendly favorite that’s as great for a busy weeknight as it is for cozy dinner gatherings. If you’re searching for a healthy, low-sodium option that delivers big on taste, come along as I share how to whip up this delightful dish in your own kitchen!
Why is Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This stew is like a cozy hug after a long day, perfect for chilly nights.
Nutritional powerhouse: Packed with lean turkey and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, it’s a healthy choice for families.
Easy preparation: Simply toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work—no fuss involved!
Versatile deliciousness: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Crowd pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or a quiet dinner, everyone will come back for seconds!
Make ahead magic: Enjoy the convenience of a meal prepped in advance, saving you time when it matters most.
Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew Ingredients
Discover the flavorful components of this delightful dish.
For the Stew
- Ground turkey – Provides lean protein; opt for extra lean for a healthier option.
- Sweet potatoes – Adds natural sweetness and texture; peel and chop into cubes for even cooking.
- Onion – Enhances flavor; finely dice for a quicker cook time.
- Garlic – Offers depth and aroma; minced for a potent flavor boost.
- Carrots – Adds color and sweetness; slice or dice for faster cooking.
- Celery – Contributes crunch and flavor; chop to your desired size for texture.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Serves as the savory cooking liquid; ensures a nutritious and flavorful base.
- Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture; be sure to include the juices for richness.
- Ground cumin – Provides earthiness and warmth; use 1 teaspoon for balanced flavor.
- Smoked paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness; adjust to taste depending on your preference.
- Salt and pepper – Enhances overall flavor; ensure to adjust according to your taste.
- Fresh parsley – Optional garnish for brightness; chop for a lovely finishing touch.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream – Optional serving suggestion for creaminess and tang; add a dollop for a delightful contrast.
These wholesome ingredients come together in this Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew to create a comforting and nourishing meal that your family will love!
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew
- Brown the Turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey for 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up as it cooks and drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the browned turkey and the sautéed vegetables into your crockpot. This is where all the magic happens, so get ready!
- Add Sweet Potatoes and Liquids: Stir in the sweet potato cubes, canned diced tomatoes with juices, and low-sodium chicken broth. Ensure everything is mixed well for flavor infusion.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; gently stir to combine all the spices, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Slow-Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the sweet potatoes are tender and everything is bubbly and comforting.
- Final Touches: Before serving, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew Variations
Let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting stew to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Ground Meat Options: Substitute ground turkey with lean ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.
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Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers or fresh green beans for added color, nutrition, and crunch—perfect for veggie lovers!
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Heat Factor: Spice it up by incorporating fresh chili or a splash of your favorite hot sauce when serving for that extra kick.
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Vegan Delight: For a plant-based version, use vegan ground meat; it holds up beautifully and ensures everyone can enjoy it.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that enhances the stew’s comfort factor.
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Coconut Cream Twist: Substitute some chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness that dances on the palate.
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Mushroom Medley: Include diced mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the turkey and sweet potatoes.
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Lentil Addition: Throw in a cup of lentils to add additional protein and fiber, making this stew even heartier and more satisfying.
What to Serve with Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew?
Warm up your dinner table with delightful pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of your stew.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread soaks up the rich broth and adds a lovely contrast in texture.
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal and balances the savory stew.
- Quinoa: This nutty grain offers a protein-packed side that complements the stew while adding a delightful chew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies bring a touch of sweetness and caramelization, enhancing the comforting flavors of the stew.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and pairs beautifully with the hearty nature of the stew, refreshing your palate.
- Fruit Chutney: For a surprising twist, serve a sweet fruit chutney on the side; it provides a burst of flavor and contrast.
- Apple Crisp: Finish with a warm apple crisp for dessert; the cinnamon-spiced apples mirror the comforting vibe of the stew.
- Herbal Tea: Sip on a warming herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, to cleanse your palate after each hearty bite.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew
- Browning Matters: Ensure you fully brown the turkey before adding it to the crockpot for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Sweet Potato Strategy: Avoid mushy sweet potatoes by cooking on low heat for the longer time; it allows for proper tenderness without breaking down.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible; this elevates the flavors and ensures safety, especially for the sweet potatoes in your stew.
- Taste Test: Don’t skip the final seasoning; taste and adjust before serving to ensure your crockpot turkey sweet potato stew is scrumptiously flavorful.
- Customize with Care: Feel free to add extra vegetables, but adjust cooking times based on their texture to maintain optimal cooking.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the delicious flavors.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth if the stew thickens too much. Stir before serving to ensure it’s evenly heated.
Storing Tips: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to containers to avoid condensation and maintain freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery) and peel and cube the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The ground turkey can also be browned and fully cooked up to 3 days ahead; simply cool it down, refrigerate, and combine with the vegetables when you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to serve, transfer everything to the crockpot with the broth and seasonings. Cook as directed for a nourishing meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, with smooth skin and no dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant orange hue. Avoid any with soft spots or signs of sprouting, as these can indicate they are past their prime.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew?
Very well! Once cooled, transfer the stew into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to fully cool it before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze this stew, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stew cool to room temperature. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion—aim for about 1 inch. Seal tightly, and label with the date. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy that comforting taste again!
What if my stew turns out too thick?
No worries! If your stew is too thick when you’re ready to serve, simply add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth or water. Stir well to achieve your desired consistency, and heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Great question! This stew is quite versatile and can cater to various dietary needs. For allergies, be cautious with ingredients like onions and garlic, which are common allergens. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure the broth and any condiments used are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version, making it accessible for different diets.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Very much so! You can enhance the nutritional profile and flavors of your Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just be mindful of their cooking times; add heartier vegetables at the beginning and more delicate ones later, so they don’t turn mushy. Enjoy experimenting!
Comforting Crockpot Turkey Sweet Potato Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up and draining excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic and sauté for 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Transfer the browned turkey and sautéed vegetables into your crockpot.
- Stir in the sweet potato cubes, canned diced tomatoes with juices, and low-sodium chicken broth, mixing well.
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir gently to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until sweet potatoes are tender and everything is bubbly.
- Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed, ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt.