Introduction
Looking for a wholesome, high-protein, and veggie-packed dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is your new go-to meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with seasoned lean ground turkey and melty cheese for a hearty yet healthy casserole everyone will love.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or green onion for garnish
Substitution Ideas:
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or beef.
- Use frozen sweet potato cubes to save time.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the sweet potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
Step 2: Cook the turkey mixture
While potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Step 3: Add vegetables and spices
Stir in diced bell pepper, paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and additional salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the peppers soften and flavors meld.
Step 4: Combine and bake
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine roasted sweet potatoes with the turkey mixture. Mix well and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheese if using.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.
Tips
- Roast sweet potatoes in advance to save time.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha for a kick.
- Store leftovers in individual containers for easy meal prep.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 servings)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lower fat: Use reduced-fat cheese or skip cheese altogether.
- Low carb: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower or butternut squash.
- Dairy-free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for freshness.
- Add a scoop of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the turkey: Cook until just browned to prevent dryness.
- Undercooked sweet potatoes: Ensure they’re fully roasted before baking.
- Too little seasoning: Adjust spices to taste—don’t be shy!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave or reheat in oven at 350°F until warm.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a delicious, nutritious, and comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for any night of the week.
Try it out and let us know how it went in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more healthy and delicious recipes.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Just drain excess fat after cooking.
Is this good for meal prep?
Definitely! Portion into containers and refrigerate or freeze for later.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Swap turkey with a plant-based ground or crumbled tofu and add more veggies.
How do I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the turkey mixture.
