Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty, wholesome, and flavorful casserole-style dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meal prep. Packed with lean ground turkey, roasted sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings, this baked dinner delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite.
Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping lunches for the week, this satisfying bake is a simple, balanced meal that combines protein, fiber, and essential vitamins for a well-rounded dinner
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Nutritious – Loaded with lean protein, complex carbs, and vegetables
- ✅ Easy to Make – One skillet, one baking dish, and no fancy steps
- ✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Stores and reheats well for lunches or leftovers
- ✅ Customizable – Easily adapt it to fit your tastes or dietary needs
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Ground Turkey
- A lean protein source that’s lower in fat than ground beef
- Contains B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium to support metabolism and immune health
Sweet Potatoes
- Rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin A, and antioxidants
- Provide slow-digesting complex carbs to keep you full longer
Together, these ingredients create a naturally gluten-free, nutrient-dense base for a satisfying meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Brown the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it browns. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in garlic, bell pepper, diced sweet potatoes, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the spices are fragrant and vegetables begin to soften.
4. Bake the Casserole
Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Top with Cheese and Finish Baking
Uncover the dish, sprinkle cheese evenly on top, and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Simple Salad – A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly
- Whole Grains – Add a side of rice, farro, or quinoa for a heartier meal
- Bread – Serve with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through
Easy Variations
- Spicy Southwest Style – Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and avocado.
- Italian Twist – Use Italian turkey sausage, oregano, and mozzarella. Add chopped spinach or zucchini.
- Cheesy Upgrade – Mix cheddar and gouda for extra cheesy goodness.
- Veggie-Packed – Include mushrooms, carrots, kale, or your favorite vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken is a great substitute. Ground beef also works for a richer flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! Assemble everything ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap the turkey for a plant-based meat or use a mix of beans like black beans and lentils.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a comforting, family-friendly meal that delivers both flavor and nutrition. With just a few wholesome ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner tonight—or any night!