This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor! With tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s comforting and satisfying.
One bite, and you’ll see why this meal is a family favorite! I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix and bake—and it always warms me up on chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, you could use regular potatoes or butternut squash for a similar feel, though the flavor will be different.
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the bake lighter. You can swap it for ground chicken or lean beef if you prefer. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try crumbled tofu or lentils instead!
Onion & Garlic: They add a great base of flavor. Red onions add a milder taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works too. Use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is excellent for adding color and nutrients. You can use kale or frozen spinach (just make sure to drain it well) if fresh isn’t available.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a crunch and sweetness. Any color of bell pepper works, or you could even use zucchini for a different texture.
How Do You Ensure the Sweet Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking sweet potatoes to the right tenderness is crucial for this dish. You’ll want them soft but not mushy. To achieve this:
- Slice the sweet potatoes evenly, about 1/4 inch thick; this helps them cook evenly.
- Layer them carefully in the baking dish. The first layer should be a solid base to support the turkey mixture.
- Cover with foil while baking to trap steam, ensuring the sweet potatoes cook through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to create a nice top layer.
Keep an eye on the bake in the oven! If the sweet potatoes are still firm after the initial baking time, you can extend it by a few minutes until they soften.
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, fresh or canned)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes in the oven. So, you can have a warm, hearty meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your dish goes in!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that lovely aroma.
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to your skillet, using a spoon to break it apart. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. Stir it occasionally to cook it evenly.
4. Flavor It Up:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper and the diced tomatoes (if you want them!). Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing those flavors to blend.
5. Add Greens:
Now, toss in the chopped spinach and the fresh cilantro (or parsley). Stir it all together just until the spinach is wilted. Once it’s done, remove the skillet from the heat!
6. Layer the Sweet Potatoes:
Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it. Start by arranging a layer of sweet potato slices on the bottom. This will be your base.
7. Add the Turkey Mixture:
Spread half of the turkey mixture evenly over the first layer of sweet potatoes. Then, add another layer of sweet potato slices on top. Finally, spread the remaining turkey mixture over this layer.
8. Bake It:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork.
9. Brown the Top:
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will help brown the top layer and give it a nice finish.
10. Garnish & Serve:
Once baked, garnish with extra fresh cilantro or parsley and top with sliced avocado before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake!
Dig in and savor the flavors of this healthy, hearty dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give this dish a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or butternut squash. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist when reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground turkey with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the ingredient you choose.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Definitely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
