This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Loaded with tender sweet potatoes, seasoned ground turkey, and vibrant bell peppers, it’s topped with optional shredded cheese for extra comfort. Simple, flavorful, and family-approved!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and bell peppers. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing everything well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Transfer the cooked turkey and sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, if using.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- For added spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef.
- Use any combination of bell peppers to add more color and flavor.
Variation
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground turkey for crumbled tofu or cooked lentils to make a hearty vegetarian option. Ensure you season well to boost flavor since tofu and lentils are milder in taste.
- Mexican-Style Twist: Add black beans, corn, and a dash of chili powder for a southwestern-inspired flavor. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh guacamole for a complete meal.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the sweet potatoes with diced zucchini or cauliflower for a lower carbohydrate version. Both vegetables cook quickly and pair well with the spices.
Cooking Notes
- For added spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef.
- Use any combination of bell peppers to add more color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve the bake with a crisp green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic flavors of the salad balance the richness of the casserole perfectly.
- With Crusty Bread: Pair the dish with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the bake.
- As a Brunch Dish: This bake also works well as a brunch item. Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top for a protein-packed meal.
Tips
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet when seasoning the turkey. This adds depth and a slight kick to the dish.
- Cheese Selection: While shredded cheddar works well, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for added spice.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dish up to the baking step a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it fresh, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that it may increase the fat content of the dish. To keep it lean, use ground beef with a lower fat percentage, such as 90% lean. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving. - Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This bake is freezer-friendly. After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. - What other vegetables can I add?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture before adding them to the bake to prevent it from becoming watery.