There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings together wholesome ingredients and gooey cheese in one bubbling, golden casserole. Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is that perfect weeknight meal that checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, healthy, and just fancy enough to feel like a special treat without hours in the kitchen. In this dish, lean ground turkey mingles with tender sweet potato cubes and vibrant veggies, all seasoned to perfection with smoked paprika, oregano, and a hint of cumin. Topped with melty mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, each bite delivers a comforting hug to your taste buds.
What I adore most is how this casserole transforms simple ingredients into a dish worthy of any dinner table. It’s beginner-friendly yet packed with flavor layers—from the savory turkey base to the naturally sweet, earthy sweet potatoes, and the bright pop of spinach. Plus, with just 20 minutes of preparation, 35 minutes of cooking time, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. At around 400 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that won’t leave you reaching for late-night snacks. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a trusted favorite.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Every ingredient in this casserole plays a star role in creating a balanced, flavorful meal that your whole family will love. From the aromatic base to the cheesy finish, here’s why each component matters:
- Olive Oil: Provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring nothing sticks and flavors develop slowly.
- Onion: Adds sweet, savory depth when cooked until translucent, forming the aromatic backbone of the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses a warm, pungent kick that complements the sweetness of the potatoes and balances the savory turkey.
- Ground Turkey: Offers a lean source of protein and soaks up all the spices, becoming juicy and flavorful as it browns.
- Sweet Potatoes: Bring natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a creamy texture once tender, while adding fiber and nutrients.
- Red Bell Pepper: Contributes a crisp, fruity bite and bright hue, balancing the earthy sweet potato.
- Fresh Spinach Leaves: Provide a pop of green, wilt beautifully, and boost the vitamin content of the casserole.
- Dried Oregano: Delivers earthy, slightly peppery notes that tie together the turkey and veggies.
- Smoked Paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness and rich red color, elevating every spoonful.
- Ground Cumin: Lends a warm, nutty undertone that complements the paprika and oregano perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that sharpen all the flavors and bring harmony to the dish.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, creating that irresistible cheesy layer on top.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite and forms a golden crust as it bakes.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the casserole moist and helps cook the sweet potatoes through without diluting flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Offers a burst of bright, herbal freshness when sprinkled over the finished casserole.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Rolling up your sleeves and following these steps will guide you through a seamless cooking experience. From sautéing aromatics to baking the final cheesy masterpiece, each stage is designed to build layers of flavor and texture.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature before you’re ready to bake.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until the onion is fully translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up the meat and brown it evenly, cooking until no pink remains, around 5–7 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to develop slight tenderness and flavor.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and spices are evenly distributed.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the sweet potatoes become tender.
7. Transfer the turkey-vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
8. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the dish from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
11. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over each portion for a bright, herbaceous finish, and serve warm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Once your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole comes out of the oven, it’s time to think about plating and accompaniments that will elevate each comforting slice. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying leftovers, pairing the casserole thoughtfully can turn a simple dinner into a memorable feast. The balance of creamy sweet potatoes and savory turkey works beautifully alongside crisp textures, fresh herbs, or tangy sauces. Consider how contrasting elements might enhance every bite, from crunchy salads to zesty dressings. By thinking creatively about garnishes and side dishes, you’ll add layers of flavor and texture that keep guests asking for seconds. Let’s explore a few serving ideas that promise to complement this wholesome casserole.
- Crisp Spring Salad: Toss fresh lettuce, cucumber ribbons, and cherry tomatoes with a light lemon vinaigrette. The acidic brightness cuts through the cheese and adds crunchy contrast.
- Garlicky Green Beans: Quickly sauté green beans in olive oil with minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon. The vibrant greens and aromatic garlic pair beautifully with the casserole’s savory base.
- Tangy Yogurt Sauce: Stir Greek yogurt with chopped dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this creamy sauce over each serving for a cool, refreshing note.
- Warm Garlic Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic butter and toasted until golden. The toasted crunch soaks up any extra juices and complements the casserole’s richness.
HOW TO STORE GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Storing your leftover Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole properly ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness days later without sacrificing texture or flavor. Whether you’re packing portioned meals for the week or tucking away a full dish, understanding the best methods and containers will keep everything fresh. Proper cooling, airtight sealing, and temperature control are key to maintaining moist sweet potatoes and tender turkey. Below are a few techniques aimed at preserving taste and quality, so you can savor this easy recipe again and again.
- Refrigerator Storage: Allow the casserole to cool slightly, then transfer into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezer-Friendly Portions: Divide the cooled casserole into freezer-safe meal prep containers. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
- Glass Bakeware Method: If your casserole dish has a lid, you can cover it tightly with cling wrap followed by aluminum foil. Keep it in the fridge and reheat directly in the same dish to save time on dishwashing.
- Vacuum Sealing: For long-term storage, consider a vacuum sealer. Remove air to prevent freezer burn and extend shelf life. When ready, thaw and bake as usual.
CONCLUSION
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. We’ve walked through every step, from selecting key ingredients like lean ground turkey and vibrant sweet potatoes to mastering the perfect cheese layer. With just 20 minutes of prep, 35 minutes of bake time, and a quick 5-minute rest, this beginner-friendly casserole proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to produce a crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe for weeknight meals or a healthy dinner the whole family will love, this casserole delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience. Remember that you can easily adapt the dish by swapping in other vegetables or proteins, or by adding extra spices like a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—the clearly outlined instructions and tips will guide you through each step whenever you need a reliable, satisfying casserole in your rotation. You’ll also find a handy FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about ingredient swaps, storage, and reheating techniques. If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment or reach out with any questions or feedback. I love hearing about your kitchen adventures, and I’m here to help if you need any tips or encouragement along the way. Enjoy every cheesy, savory-sweet bite!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Description
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is packed with flavors and nutrients. Savory ground turkey melds with sweet potatoes and vibrant veggies, topped with gooey cheese for the perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper. Allow them to cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
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Mix in the fresh spinach leaves, oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spinach wilts.
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Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the sweet potatoes are tender.
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Transfer the turkey mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mixture.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Note
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for a variation in taste.
- Consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
