Name: No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 oz ground turkey; kosher salt; ½ cup onion; 3 cloves garlic; 10 oz Rotel mild tomatoes with green chilies; 8 oz tomato sauce; ¾ cup water; ½ tsp cumin; ¼ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp paprika; 1 bay leaf; 1 medium sweet potato; cilantro

This delightful no bean turkey and sweet potato chili is a comforting meal perfect for the colder months. The fusion of flavors from the turkey, sweet potato, and mild green chilies creates a unique twist on the classic chili recipe. Ideal for those who want a hearty, protein-rich meal without beans.

Photos of No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

Most of the ingredients used in this recipe are common household items. However, the rotel mild tomatoes with green chilies might not be readily available in your pantry. This product is a combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies, and adds a mildly spicy flavor to the dish. If you're heading to the supermarket, remember to pick this up.

No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Ingredients

Ground turkey: Lean protein source that adds a hearty texture.Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.Onion: Provides a sweet and savory depth of flavor.Garlic: Infuses the chili with a distinctive pungent flavor.Rotel mild tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a mildly spicy flavor to the dish.Tomato sauce: Gives a rich tomato base.Water: Thins the consistency of the chili.Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.Chili powder: Provides heat and complexity.Paprika: Gives a sweet peppery flavor.Bay leaf: Infuses the chili with a subtle herbal aroma.Sweet potato: Adds a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors.Cilantro: Garnish that enhances the visual appeal and adds a fresh flavor.

One reader, Berni Hogan says:

This no bean turkey and sweet potato chili recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the sweet potato adds a delightful twist. It's a healthy, hearty meal that's perfect for chilly nights. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Berni Hogan

Key Techniques for Making No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

How to brown turkey: In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks into smaller pieces and seasoning with salt.

How to simmer: Cover the skillet and simmer the chili over medium-low heat for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are soft and cooked through.

How to natural release: After cooking the chili in the Instant Pot, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the pot.

How To Make No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

This sweet potato chili has no beans and uses ground turkey instead of beef. Still, it’s as rich and flavorsome as you’d expect this classic dish to be.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

20ozground turkey,(93% lean)
kosher salt,to taste
½cuponion,chopped
3clovesgarlic,crushed
10ozRotel mild tomatoes with green chilies
8oztomato sauce
¾cupwater
½tspcumin,or to taste
¼tspchili powder
¼tsppaprika
1bayleaf
1medium sweet potato,peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
cilantro,fresh for garnish

Instructions

Stove Top:

In a large skillet, brown turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks into smaller pieces and season with salt.
When meat is browned and cooked through add onion and garlic; cook 3 minutes over medium heat.
Add the can of Rotel tomatoes, sweet potato, tomato sauce, water, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and bay leaf.
Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are soft and cooked through.
Add ¼ cup more water if needed. Remove bay leaf and serve.

Instant Pot:

Press saute, spray the pot with oil and brown the turkey breaking it up as it cooks into smaller pieces and season with salt and cumin.
When meat is browned and cooked through add onion and garlic; cook for 3 minutes.
Add the can of Rotel tomatoes, sweet potato, tomato sauce, water, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and bay leaf.
Cover and cook high pressure for 15 minutes until potatoes are soft and cooked through. Natural release.
Remove bay leaf and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 235.38kcal
Fat: 9.08g
Saturated Fat: 2.35g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.06g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.66g
Carbohydrates: 15.51g
Fiber: 2.84g
Sugar: 6.34g
Protein: 24.81g
Cholesterol: 78.24mg
Sodium: 693.78mg
Calcium: 59.79mg
Potassium: 739.56mg
Iron: 2.87mg
Vitamin A: 265.75µg
Vitamin C: 143.91mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

When cooking the turkey, make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. This will ensure that the turkey is cooked evenly and will also help it to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients more effectively. Additionally, when adding the sweet potato, make sure to cut it into small, even pieces to ensure that it cooks through properly. If the pieces are too large, they may not cook all the way through, resulting in a crunchy texture in your chili.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chili Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cut sweet potatoes: Save time by using pre-cut sweet potatoes from the grocery store.

Instant pot: Consider using an instant pot for quicker cooking and easy cleanup.

Double batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra portions for future meals.

One-pot meal: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as this chili, to save time on washing dishes.

Crockpot option: Utilize a crockpot for a hands-off cooking experience, perfect for busy days.

Buy pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic from the store instead of mincing it yourself.

Quick release: Use the quick release function on the instant pot to expedite the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to ground turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, offering a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative while still imparting a rich garlic flavor.
rotel mild tomatoes with green chilies - Substitute with diced tomatoes and a pinch of cayenne pepper: Diced tomatoes combined with a small amount of cayenne pepper can replicate the flavor and heat of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, providing a chunkier texture and a more intense tomato flavor.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a similar warm and earthy flavor to the dish.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper: A combination of paprika and a small amount of cayenne pepper can replicate the flavor and heat of chili powder.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used as a substitute for regular paprika, adding a subtle smoky flavor to the dish.
sweet potato - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for sweet potato, providing a similar sweet and nutty flavor with a slightly firmer texture.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious No Bean Chili

Elevate the plating: When presenting the no bean turkey and sweet potato chili, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The contrast of the rich chili and the bright sweet potatoes will create an enticing visual impact.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Add a pop of freshness and color to the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped cilantro over the top. The bright green cilantro will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of flavor to the chili.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the chili just before serving. The elegant lines of the oil will add a touch of sophistication to the presentation, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Consider the vessel: Opt for a beautiful, artisanal ceramic bowl to serve the chili. The rustic yet refined appearance of the bowl will complement the hearty nature of the dish, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Balance with a side: Serve a small side of cornbread or crispy tortilla strips on the side of the bowl to add a contrasting texture and elevate the overall dining experience.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

Let the chili cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the chili:
- Divide the cooled chili into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for easier storage.
- Frozen chili will maintain its best quality for up to 4-6 months.
To reheat the chili:
- If frozen, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the chili to a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat the chili over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave the chili in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
- If the chili appears too thick after reheating, add a little water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
When reheating, ensure the chili reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

Reheat the leftover chili in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure even heating, preventing the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions of the turkey chili in the microwave. Transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. The damp paper towel helps prevent the chili from drying out during reheating.
If you have a large quantity of leftover chili, consider reheating it in a slow cooker or crockpot. Transfer the chili to the slow cooker, cover, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method is ideal for keeping the chili warm for an extended period, making it perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover turkey and sweet potato chili into a filling for baked potatoes, tacos, or quesadillas. Reheat the chili using one of the above methods, then spoon it over a split baked potato, into taco shells, or between tortillas with cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.
To maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the chili if it appears too thick or dry. This will help reconstitute the sauce and prevent the ground turkey from becoming tough or overcooked during the reheating process.

Interesting Trivia About No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

The sweet potato in this recipe is a great source of fiber and vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin C. It also adds a natural sweetness to the chili, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to the dish.

Is Making Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili at Home Cost-Effective?

This no bean turkey and sweet potato chili recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey and sweet potatoes are affordable and nutritious ingredients. The use of spices and canned tomatoes adds flavor without breaking the bank. This hearty dish can feed a family of four for approximately $15, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.

Is This Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Healthy?

This turkey and sweet potato chili recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional chili recipes. Here's why:

Ground turkey is a lean protein source, lower in saturated fat compared to beef
Sweet potatoes provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals
The recipe uses a moderate amount of salt and no added sugars
Tomatoes and tomato sauce offer lycopene and other beneficial nutrients
Onion and garlic add flavor without excessive calories
Spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika provide antioxidants and flavor without the need for excessive salt

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the amount of sweet potato or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Use low-sodium tomato sauce and rotel tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content
Opt for lean ground turkey breast instead of regular ground turkey for an even lower fat option
Serve the chili with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add more nutrients and balance the meal
Use Greek yogurt or avocado as a topping instead of sour cream to increase the protein or healthy fat content while reducing saturated fat

Editor's Opinion on This No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

This no-bean turkey and sweet potato chili recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices creates a hearty and flavorful chili that is both satisfying and nutritious. The use of the Instant Pot option provides a convenient and efficient cooking method, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The addition of cilantro at the end adds a fresh and vibrant touch. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome meal that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Enhance Your No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Cornbread: Moist and buttery cornbread muffins with a hint of honey

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This No Bean Chili

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stew: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad: This refreshing salad features juicy grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus dressing for a light and flavorful dish.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Velvety smooth and rich in flavor, this roasted butternut squash soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delicious apple cinnamon crisp, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. A refreshing and colorful appetizer that's sure to please.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili Recipe:

This recipe is a trustworthy choice for a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of ground turkey and sweet potato provides a lean and nutritious base, while the addition of onion, garlic, and a blend of spices infuses rich and aromatic flavors. The use of rotel tomatoes with green chilies adds a zesty kick, and the cooking methods offered ensure flexibility for different kitchen setups. With a balanced mix of ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome chili experience.

Share your thoughts on this No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I substitute the ground turkey with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it later?

Absolutely! This chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it.

Is there a way to make this chili spicier?

If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also top each serving with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this chili freezes very well. Once it has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bags, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

What are some good toppings to serve with this chili?

Some delicious toppings for this chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.