Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole

Looking for a hearty, healthy, and flavorful meal all in one dish? This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect answer. It’s a wholesome, satisfying, and comforting casserole layered with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, veggies, and warm spices—all baked into a bubbly, golden-topped dish that’s both nourishing and delicious.

This casserole is an excellent option for busy weeknights or make-ahead meal prep. It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, thanks to the sweet potatoes and vegetables. The savory ground turkey adds a meaty richness, while the seasonings—like garlic, paprika, and thyme—tie everything together into a flavor-packed experience.

Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also endlessly customizable based on what you have in your fridge or pantry. You can keep it simple or add extra veggies, cheese, or a crunchy topping for variety. The best part? It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or packed lunches. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a nutritious twist on comfort food, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a winner every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Comfort Food – Nutritious ingredients come together in a warm, satisfying way.
2. One-Dish Meal – Protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one easy casserole.
3. Great for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats well, making it ideal for busy weeks.
4. Customizable – Use what you have and make it your own with endless variations.
5. Family-Friendly – Mild flavors with room to adjust seasoning for any palate.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey
• Sweet potatoes
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell peppers
• Spinach or kale
• Olive oil
• Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Spices (paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
• Optional cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
• Optional toppings (breadcrumbs, parsley, or green onions)

Variations

• Swap the Protein: Use ground beef, chicken, or lentils instead of turkey.
• Add Grains: Mix in quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for added bulk.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Go Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with mushrooms, black beans, or tofu crumbles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers until soft.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Tomato

Stir in tomato paste (or diced tomatoes), broth, and spices. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Greens

Stir in spinach or kale until wilted and combined.

Step 6: Layer in a Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish. Layer sliced or cubed sweet potatoes on the bottom, then spoon the turkey mixture over the top. Add cheese if using.

Step 7: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs or green onions, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thinly slice or cube sweet potatoes evenly to ensure they cook fully and quickly.
• Use pre-cooked sweet potatoes if short on time.
• Drain excess liquid from the turkey mixture to avoid a soggy casserole.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for a golden crust.
• Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a complete meal on its own.
• Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
• Serve alongside crusty bread or rolls to round out the meal.
• Pack leftovers into meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let cool completely before storing.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works just as well and provides a similar texture and flavor.

2. Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional—just scrub them well if you prefer to keep the skin for added fiber.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and bake when ready.

4. What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta all pair nicely. Choose based on your flavor preference.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free.

6. Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh or frozen are recommended for texture, but canned can work in a pinch—just drain well.

7. How do I make it spicier?

Add chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture.

8. Will kids like this dish?

Yes, it’s mild in flavor and can be adjusted to suit picky eaters.

9. Can I cook the sweet potatoes first?

Yes, pre-cooking helps speed up baking time and ensures softness.

10. Can I add eggs to make it breakfast-friendly?

Yes! Whisk a few eggs into the turkey mixture or layer beaten eggs on top before baking.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is everything you want in a meal—nutritious, flavorful, satisfying, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t sacrifice taste for health. With endless room for customization, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Bake once, enjoy for days, and feel good about every bite!

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