Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake – A Healthy & Hearty Comfort Dish

If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is just what you need! It’s a one-pan, high-protein dish packed with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and savory seasonings. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this casserole-style meal irresistible.

Not only is this dish nutritious, but it’s also meal-prep friendly and great for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner, a filling lunch, or a meal-prep staple, this recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with fiber and protein to keep you full and satisfied.

Let’s get cooking!

Description

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a healthy, protein-packed casserole featuring lean turkey, roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and spinach, all seasoned to perfection and baked in one dish. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal-prep option or weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Ground Turkey Mixture:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, chopped)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

For the Topping (Optional):

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey Mixture

1. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in the bell peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the spinach and diced tomatoes, stirring until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the roasted sweet potatoes evenly in the dish.
3. Pour the turkey mixture over the top and spread evenly.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm.
• Enjoy as is, or pair with a side salad, avocado, or quinoa for an even heartier meal!

Notes

• For a dairy-free version: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• For extra crunch: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top.
• For a spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture.
• Make it ahead: This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep!

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Dinner / Casserole
• Method: Roasting & Baking
• Cuisine: American / Healthy
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (if cheese is omitted)
• Keywords: sweet potato casserole, healthy turkey bake, paleo dinner, meal prep recipe

Helpful Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes First for Better Texture

• Roasting the sweet potatoes separately ensures they stay firm and slightly caramelized, rather than becoming too soft or mushy in the bake.
• Flip them halfway through roasting for even browning.

2. Brown the Ground Turkey for Extra Flavor

• Cooking the turkey with onions, garlic, and spices before baking deepens the flavor.
• Drain any excess liquid if the turkey releases too much moisture.

3. Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach

• If using fresh spinach, add it toward the end of cooking to prevent over-wilting.
• If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery casserole.

4. Make It Ahead for Easy Meal Prep

• Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it unbaked.
• When ready to eat, bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

5. Add Cheese for Extra Comfort

• Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack all melt beautifully on top.
• For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute.

6. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference

• For mild flavor, stick to cumin and paprika.
• For more heat, add chili powder, cayenne, or diced jalapeños.

7. Add Extra Veggies for More Nutrients

• Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots make great additions.
• If adding extra veggies, sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

8. Store and Reheat Properly for Best Results

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep the texture intact.

9. Make It a Complete Meal

• Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or a side salad for extra fiber.
• Add a fried egg or avocado on top for a satisfying breakfast option.

10. Try Different Seasonings for a Flavor Twist

Mediterranean Style: Mix in feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.per jack, or mozzarella for a creamy, comforting finish.

Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans, taco seasoning, and cilantro.

Italian-Inspired: Use oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese.

Conservation and Storage

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is perfect for meal prep and stores well for leftovers. Follow these storage tips to keep it fresh and delicious!

Refrigerator Storage (Best for 4 Days)

• Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months)

This dish freezes well, making it great for meal prep!

• Portion into individual airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen:
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  • For quick reheating, microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

Preventing Sogginess

• If freezing, avoid adding cheese before freezing—add it fresh when reheating for the best texture.
• Drain excess moisture from cooked vegetables before assembling the bake.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Assemble but don’t bake: Store the unbaked dish in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
• Cook in advance: Bake fully, store in portions, and reheat throughout the week for easy meals.

Substitutions and Variations

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is easy to customize! Whether you need a diet-friendly swap or want to switch up the flavors, here are some delicious variations.

1. Swap the Protein

• Ground Chicken – A lean alternative with a lighter flavor.
• Ground Beef – Adds a richer, heartier taste.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – For a quick and easy option.
• Vegetarian Option – Use lentils, chickpeas, or black beans instead of turkey.

2. Use Different Veggies

• Swap bell peppers for zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Add Brussels sprouts or broccoli for extra fiber.
• Mix in cauliflower rice to lighten the dish while keeping it filling.

3. Adjust the Sweet Potatoes

• Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a similar texture.
• Use regular white potatoes for a classic, hearty twist.
• Go low-carb by using roasted cauliflower or turnips instead.

4. Make It Dairy-Free or Vegan

• Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.
• Use coconut oil or avocado oil instead of butter.
• Swap the turkey for plant-based crumbles or extra beans.

5. Try Different Seasonings

• Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and cilantro.
• Italian-Inspired: Use oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
• Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

6. Make It Creamy

• Stir in ½ cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese before baking for extra creaminess.
• Add a layer of ricotta cheese for a lasagna-style dish.

7. Add a Crunchy Topping

• Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.
• Use toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for added texture.

8. Make It a Breakfast Casserole

• Add scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top for a morning meal.
• Mix in crumbled turkey sausage for a more traditional breakfast flavor.

9. Serve It Differently

• Scoop over quinoa or brown rice for a grain-based meal.
• Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb, taco-inspired dish.

10. Turn It Into a One-Skillet Meal

• Instead of baking, cook everything in a large skillet and serve directly from the stovetop for a quick, one-pan meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This in a Skillet Instead?

Yes! Cook everything in a large skillet, adding the roasted sweet potatoes at the end. Cover and let it heat through for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate uncooked for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

3. How Can I Make It More Filling?

Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or a fried egg for a protein boost.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is the perfect healthy, one-pan meal—full of lean protein, fiber, and flavor! Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a family dinner, or a cozy night in, it’s sure to be a hit.

If you try this recipe, share your photos on Pinterest or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your creations!

Looking for more healthy comfort food recipes? Try my Turkey Zucchini Casserole, Sweet Potato Chili, or Stuffed Bell Peppers next!

Enjoy and happy cooking!

Print