Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood over the stove, the aroma of sautéing onions and spices enveloped the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that has quickly become a favorite in our home: Turkey Potato Chili. This hearty, beanless chili is both nourishing and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a Whole30 or Paleo diet. The combination of tender sweet potatoes with lean ground turkey creates a delicious balance, while the smoky chipotle peppers add just the right amount of kick. One of the best parts? It’s a meal prep superstar, perfect for busy weeknights and easy to transform into various meals throughout the week. Ready to discover just how comforting and flavorful this dish can be? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Chili So Special? Nourishing Comfort: This Turkey Potato Chili is a warm embrace on a chilly day, boasting a deliciously thick consistency that fills you up without emptying your calorie bank. Flavor Explosion: With the perfect blend of spices and sweet potatoes, each spoonful is a delightful dance of flavors that celebrates healthy eating. Versatile Meal Prep: Great for busy nights, whip up a big batch and watch how easily it transforms into lunches or various dinners throughout the week. Pair it with some Cheesy Mashed Potato for a filling meal! Customizable: Easily adapt this chili to your taste; toss in extra veggies or try it vegetarian with lentils. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply feeding the family, this dish is sure to please old and young alike! Turkey Potato Chili Ingredients For the Chili Base Ground Turkey – A lean, high-protein option, look for at least 93% lean for the best results. Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing ingredients; it enhances flavor and is a heart-healthy choice. Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder profile. Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is the secret to aromatic richness that elevates the dish. Chili Powder – This essential spice creates the signature chili flavor; consider a mix for complexity. Oregano – An herb that balances the spices; feel free to swap with Italian seasoning if needed. Ground Cumin – A must-have for a rich, earthy taste; it’s integral to authentic chili. Paprika – Choose smoked paprika for added depth and a beautiful color. Tomato Paste – Thickens the chili while intensifying the tomato flavor; a key ingredient for richness. Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings, but adjust according to personal taste. For the Sweetness and Texture Sweet Potatoes – They lend natural sweetness and a pleasant texture; butternut squash works too. Canned Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes – Contributes acidity and texture; substitute with regular diced tomatoes in a pinch. For the Heat Canned Chipotles in Adobo – Infuses smokiness and heat; omit for a milder chili or use fresh jalapeños instead. For the Broth Beef Broth – Enhances the overall flavor; can also use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option. This Turkey Potato Chili is not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for your meal prep adventures! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Potato Chili Step 1: Sauté Aromatics In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute until the spices are fragrant. Step 2: Create Depth with Tomato Paste Push the aromatic mixture to one side of the pan and add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the cleared area. Allow the paste to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it darkens slightly and starts to caramelize. This step enhances the overall flavor of your Turkey Potato Chili, making it rich and savory. Step 3: Brown the Turkey Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink. This crucial step ensures your chili is packed with protein and flavor. Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients Stir in 2 cups of peeled and diced sweet potatoes, 1 can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and 1 can of chipotles in adobo (drained and chopped). Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, mixing thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Step 5: Simmer and Thicken Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let the Turkey Potato Chili simmer for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the sweet potatoes become tender and the chili thickens. The bubbling encourage a comforting aroma throughout your kitchen as you wait for your delicious meal to come together. Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, taste your Turkey Potato Chili and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If desired, add a splash of broth if the chili is thicker than you like. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced jalapeños, and sliced avocado for a delightful twist! Turkey Potato Chili Variations Feel free to get creative with your Turkey Potato Chili, adding a splash of personality that will tantalize your taste buds! Vegetarian: Replace ground turkey with lentils or black beans for a hearty meatless option. This twist maintains the chili’s richness while being packed with nutrients. Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a delightful crunch and a colorful presentation. The added veggies boost the nutritional value and give the dish a garden-fresh flair. Sweet & Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. This fiery variation will keep those taste buds tingling and add a fun level of heat to your meal! Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of coconut cream or sour cream just before serving for a rich and creamy texture. This not only nurtures the palate but also dims the heat if you prefer a more balanced flavor profile. Cauliflower Rice Base: Serve your chili over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. This simple swap adds a hearty texture while keeping the meal light and nutritious. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, sprinkled on top add vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor. Consider experimenting with fresh basil for a unique twist! Hearty Toppings: Top your chili with freshly grated cheese, diced avocado, or crispy bacon bits for an indulgent finish. These toppings not only enhance flavor but also make your dish more satisfying. Slow Cooker Convenience: Prepare your chili in a slow cooker for easy meal prep. Just brown the turkey and onions, then transfer all ingredients. This comforting dish simmers beautifully while you’re busy throughout the day. With these variations, you can personalize your Turkey Potato Chili to suit your family’s preferences and keep mealtime exciting! For added side dish inspiration, consider pairing it with some Loaded Baked Potato for a cozy, delightful dinner. Don’t forget to grab a spoonful of Cajun Potato Soup if you’re feeling adventurous! Make Ahead Options These Turkey Potato Chili preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and peel the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. You can also cook the entire chili and refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy comforting, hearty flavors just as delicious as when it was freshly made! Expert Tips for Turkey Potato Chili Seasoning Balance: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors and balance the heat in your Turkey Potato Chili. Browning Matters: Ensure the ground turkey is browned well before adding other ingredients. This step adds depth to the chili’s flavor, making a significant difference. Texture Control: If your chili is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Adjusting the thickness right before serving can improve your dish. Use Fresh Ingredients: Lean toward using fresh spices and herbs whenever possible. This simple tip elevates the taste of your Turkey Potato Chili beyond ordinary expectations! Make It Ahead: This chili stores well—consider making a double batch. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for three months, making meal prep a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Turkey Potato Chili Fridge: Store your Turkey Potato Chili in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool down before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your chili in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Ensure to leave some space for expansion. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary for moisture. Meal Prep: This versatile chili is a fantastic meal prep option, easily adaptable for busy weekdays while providing hearty, healthy meals throughout the week. What to Serve with Hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili As you savor each comforting spoonful of this delicious chili, consider pairing it with sides that enhance its rich flavors. Creamy Avocado Toast: The buttery texture of ripe avocados complements the chili’s spice, offering a delightful contrast that’ll elevate your meal. A sprinkle of salt and a dash of lime make this toast irresistible. Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the chili. Consider including cucumbers and radishes for extra texture. Cilantro Lime Rice: This light, zesty rice dish pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of Turkey Potato Chili, enriching your bites with a refreshing twist. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized sweet potatoes or crunchy Brussels sprouts bring an earthy quality that aligns wonderfully with your chili. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings for an easy side. Cornbread Muffins: Soft, sweet cornbread muffins are a classic pairing that soak up every savory drop of chili, making for a satisfying experience. Chili Cheese Fries: For the ultimate indulgence, load up crispy sweet potato fries with melted cheese and a scoop of your chili on top. It’s a party on a plate! Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio can brighten the meal, contrasting nicely with the chili’s rich, spicy flavors. Dark Chocolate Dessert: End on a sweet note with a small piece of dark chocolate. Its deep flavors pair surprisingly well with the smoky notes of the chili, satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly rich. Turkey Potato Chili Recipe FAQs What kind of ground turkey should I use for Turkey Potato Chili? Absolutely! I recommend using ground turkey that is at least 93% lean. This will give you a rich, flavorful base without excess grease. Always check the package for freshness, and try to choose a brand you trust. How do I store leftover Turkey Potato Chili? You can keep this delicious chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up for best results. This way, it’ll stay fresh and delicious when you’re ready for your next bowl! Can I freeze Turkey Potato Chili? Very! Freeze your chili in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the chili to cool, portion into containers, and label with the date. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. What should I do if my chili is too thick? No worries! If your Turkey Potato Chili turns out too thick, simply add a splash of beef broth or water while stirring it on the stove. This will help achieve your preferred consistency. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to get it just right! Is this recipe suitable for my dietary restrictions? Definitely! This Turkey Potato Chili is Whole30 and Paleo-friendly since it’s beanless and loaded with nutritious ingredients. If you have specific allergies, do check each ingredient—especially canned items like chipotles and broth—to ensure they meet your dietary needs. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done cooking? You’ll know the sweet potatoes are tender when you can easily poke them with a fork, typically around the 30-45 minute mark during simmering. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t become mushy, and remember to taste the chili for seasoning once they’re perfect! Savory Turkey Potato Chili That Will Warm Your Soul This Turkey Potato Chili is a nourishing and satisfying beanless chili that's perfect for meal prep and adheres to Whole30 and Paleo diets. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chili Base1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing1 medium onion diced3 cloves garlic minced2 tablespoons chili powder essential spice1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning1 teaspoon ground cumin for an earthy taste1 teaspoon paprika preferably smoked2 tablespoons tomato paste for richnessFor the Sweetness and Texture2 cups sweet potatoes peeled and diced1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoesFor the Heat1 can chipotles in adobo drained and choppedFor the Broth2 cups beef broth or chicken/vegetable brothFor the Chili Base - Protein1 pound ground turkey at least 93% lean Equipment large saucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkey Potato ChiliHeat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until translucent.Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute.Add tomato paste to the pan, cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly.Add ground turkey, breaking it apart, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned.Stir in sweet potatoes, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chipotles, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender and chili thickens.Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg NotesThis chili is versatile and can be adapted with extra vegetables or made vegetarian with lentils. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
