Some recipes just feel like home, and this Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Bake is one of them. With layers of tender sweet potatoes, seasoned ground turkey, and melty cheese, this dish is hearty, wholesome, and full of cozy flavors. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and gathers everyone around the table without fuss.
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even casual family dinners, this bake is both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a special grocery trip.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / Casserole | 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 6 | ~380 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook the sweet potatoes. Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until slightly tender.
- Prepare the turkey mixture. In a skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until softened. Stir in ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and layer. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet with turkey. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Transfer everything into the baking dish.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Bake. Place in the oven for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the bake up to 24 hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Texture tip: Dice sweet potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use ground chicken, beef, or even lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheese lovers: Try sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of cheeses for extra depth.
- Spice it up: Add chili powder, crushed red pepper, or jalapeños for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad for freshness.
- Pair with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Bake is the perfect combination of comfort and nourishment. It’s simple enough for busy nights but hearty enough to feel like a special family dinner. Gather your loved ones, scoop out a generous portion, and savor the cozy flavors together.