Fall in a Bowl: The Cozy Twist on Turkey Chili with Sweet Potatoes

As the leaves crunch underfoot and the air takes on a chill, I find myself craving dishes that nourish both body and soul. This fall, Im obsessed with a soulful Turkey Chili packed with roasted sweet potatoes, giving it a subtle sweetness and earthy richness. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy weekend dinners or quick weekday comfort.

What makes this chili stand out is its unexpected sweetness paired with savory turkey and smoky spices. The aroma of cinnamon, cumin, and roasted sweet potatoes melds into a scent that instantly signals cozy fall evenings. Its more than just a meal; its a celebration of harvest season flavors with a slightly chaotic, delicious twist.

Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

This turkey chili features tender ground turkey simmered with roasted sweet potatoes, creating a hearty and slightly sweet dish. The chili is flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and cumin, resulting in a thick, flavorful stew with a comforting texture. The final dish has a rich, chunky appearance with vibrant orange sweet potato pieces and a fragrant, spicy aroma.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey lean
• 1 large yellow onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon ground
• 1 teaspoon cumin ground
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes crushed or blended for a smoother texture
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

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

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Toss them with a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then roast for about 25 minutes until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
2. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the minced garlic, cinnamon, and cumin to the onions, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant and the garlic is slightly golden.
4. Break the ground turkey into the pot, using a wooden spoon to stir and crumble it. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the turkey is browned all over.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Add the roasted sweet potatoes into the chili, stirring carefully so they don’t break apart too much. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are heated through and the chili thickens slightly.
7. Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. The chili should be thick, hearty, with tender chunks of sweet potato and savory ground turkey in a fragrant, spicy broth.
8. Serve the sweet potato turkey chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

This Fall Turkey Chili is more than just a seasonal dish—it’s a reminder to slow down and savor simple, hearty flavors. Perfect for hurried weeknights or relaxed weekends, it offers a comforting escape from the rush. The combination of tender turkey and sweet potatoes keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

As the seasons change, this chili becomes a staple in my kitchen—a dish that feels both nourishing and celebratory. Its rich taste and warm aroma make it ideal for chilly evenings, filling my home with an inviting scent. Sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable moments around the table.