If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, comforting dinner that ticks all the boxes, then let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe. This dish combines lean ground turkey with the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, all enhanced by vibrant bell peppers and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty bake that satisfies both your cravings and your nutrition goals, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but crucial in bringing out the rich and satisfying layers of flavor and texture in the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe. Each one offers something special — from the sweet potatoes adding natural sweetness and creaminess, to the ground turkey providing lean protein and heartiness.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the turkey and sauté the veggies, adding a healthy fat and richness to the dish.
- Ground turkey: Lean and protein-packed, it forms the savory base of this bake.
- Small onion (diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation when cooked.
- Garlic cloves (minced): A punch of warmth and depth that makes every bite aromatic.
- Red bell pepper (diced): Provides color and a subtle sweetness to brighten the dish.
- Green bell pepper (diced): Adds a fresh, slightly tangy crunch that balances the sweetness.
- Ground cumin: Delivers a warm, earthy undertone essential to the flavor profile.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a gentle smoky depth without overpowering.
- Dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbaceous earthiness that complements the other spices.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced): The star ingredient, roasting to tender perfection, bringing creaminess and subtle sweetness.
- Can of diced tomatoes (drained): Adds moisture and a bright, acidic contrast to the sweet potatoes and turkey.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For a melty, savory topping that adds richness and that irresistible golden crust.
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal finish and inviting pops of green.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey and Sauté Veggies
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up as it browns for about 5 to 6 minutes. This step creates a savory base and develops that delicious depth of flavor. Then toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and colorful bell peppers, letting them soften together for another 4 to 5 minutes. This mix releases wonderful aromas and melds the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Add Spices and Sweet Potatoes
Now it’s time to add your seasonings — ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir them into the skillet so every bite is laced with spice. Next, add the diced sweet potatoes along with the drained diced tomatoes, folding everything together gently. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sweet potatoes start soaking up those spices.
Step 3: Bake the Mixture
Transfer your flavorful mix into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 minutes. This gentle heat helps the sweet potatoes soften while the turkey continues cooking through.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After the initial baking, remove the foil and if you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered, baking another 10 to 15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gives the bake a beautiful golden topping that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. These garnishes add a burst of color and fresh flavor that lightens and brightens each savory spoonful. They also add a subtle crunch and herbaceous note that feels just right.
Side Dishes
This bake is quite the meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. Steamed or roasted green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement the sweetness of the potatoes and keep the overall meal balanced and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve portions in individual ramekins topped with a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of avocado crema for a creamy, tangy twist. You could also line your baking dish with layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes underneath the turkey mixture for a layered casserole effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen slightly overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare the bake up to the point before adding cheese, then cool it completely. Wrap tightly with freezer-safe foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed with the cheese topping.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a covered dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. If adding cheese fresh, sprinkle it on top before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield a slightly milder flavor, but just as delicious. Adjust your seasoning to taste if needed.
What if I don’t like spicy flavors?
Feel free to reduce or omit the smoked paprika and cumin if you prefer milder seasonings. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a wholesome gluten-free meal.
How do I make this dairy-free?
You can skip the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative before the final bake. The dish remains flavorful and delicious without cheese.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire bake in the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe a try. It’s a beautiful combination of flavors that feels nourishing and satisfying, perfect for any time you need a comforting yet healthy dinner. Plus, it’s simple to make and easy to customize, so it quickly becomes a family favorite. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be on repeat at your table!
Print
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and nutritious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake that combines lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and warm spices. This one-dish meal is perfect for a wholesome dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and flavorful ingredients. Easily customizable with optional cheese and fresh herbs for garnish, it’s a satisfying and healthy casserole that can be prepped ahead and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Brown the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red and green bell peppers to the skillet. Cook together for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat the turkey and vegetables.
- Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Tomatoes: Mix in the diced sweet potatoes and drained diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Mixture: Cook the mixture in the skillet for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and sweet potatoes to start softening.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Move the entire mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top if using, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese has melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this warm and comforting casserole!
Notes
- Prepare ahead by assembling the bake in the dish and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and spices, depending on preferences.
- This dish can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
