If you are looking for a hearty, nutritious dish that combines savory flavors with a touch of comforting sweetness, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a gem you will want to add to your kitchen rotation. It perfectly balances lean protein from ground turkey with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of tender sweet potatoes, all baked into a bubbling, golden casserole. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly option, this casserole brings warmth, flavor, and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, focusing on fresh and wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a unique role in building layers of flavor and giving the casserole its signature texture and appeal.
- 1 lb ground turkey: The lean protein base for the casserole, offering a mild flavor that soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to tender perfection.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts flavor with aromatic warmth.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Adds a juicy crunch and gorgeous color contrast.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy note that complements both meat and veggies.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat to round out the dish.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced): The star ingredient that adds sweetness and soft texture.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses extra savoriness during the simmering process.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional): Melted cheese topping adds a creamy, golden finish (omit for dairy-free version).
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color just before serving.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s no longer pink. This step ensures your protein is perfectly cooked while staying juicy. Once done, remove the turkey and set it aside — it will finish cooking later with the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté these aromatics for 3 to 4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This stage builds the casserole’s base flavor, elevating it beyond ordinary.
Step 3: Season and Add Sweet Potatoes
Sprinkle in dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat the veggies evenly and awaken the senses. Next, add the peeled and diced sweet potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sweet potatoes should become tender but not mushy — they carry the dish’s comforting sweetness and creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Return the cooked ground turkey to your skillet and mix thoroughly with the vegetable and sweet potato mixture. Once everything is combined, transfer it to a lightly greased 9×9-inch casserole dish. This convenient step gets your casserole ready for baking and guarantees even heat distribution.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
If you like cheese, sprinkle your choice of shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top now. Bake the casserole uncovered in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready once the edges bubble and the cheese turns golden brown, inviting you to dig in.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a pleasant herby contrast to the richer flavors underneath. If you want an extra touch, a light drizzle of a lemon-infused olive oil can add a subtle zing that lifts the whole meal.
Side Dishes
This casserole is delicious enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can provide balance and freshness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans also make lovely companions, introducing some crunch and earthy notes that complement the sweetness and savoriness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in muffin tins for handheld servings perfect for parties or packed lunches. You can also layer the mixture with sautéed spinach or kale for leafy greens that add nutrition and visual appeal. This flexibility makes the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe adaptable to many occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s an excellent option for ready-made meals, making weeknight dinners quicker and stress-free. Simply reheat and enjoy the rich flavors as if freshly baked.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep up to 3 months in the freezer, making it a lifesaver for busy days ahead.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, covering loosely to maintain moisture. The cheese topping stays delightfully melty, and the flavors remain intact after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, lean ground beef, or even ground pork can be swapped in for ground turkey. Keep in mind cooking times and fat content may vary slightly, but the casserole will still taste fabulous.
Is this casserole suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes! Simply omit the cheese topping or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The casserole remains flavorful and satisfying without dairy.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?
You sure can. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the dish is cold from the fridge.
What can I add to increase the vegetable content?
Great question! Adding chopped spinach, kale, or even black beans when you combine the turkey and vegetables boosts nutrition and adds extra texture and flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the onion and bell pepper. This will add a nice gentle heat that complements the smoky paprika beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a wholesome, tasty crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and nutrition together effortlessly. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again because of its simple ingredients, easy steps, and versatile serving options. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love how it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your table with smiles.
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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A wholesome and comforting Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole featuring tender sweet potatoes and savory ground turkey, seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme, topped with melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Turkey: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until no longer pink. Remove the cooked turkey and set it aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Add the peeled and diced sweet potatoes to the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are just tender but not mushy.
- Combine Turkey and Vegetables: Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet and mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×9-inch casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- This casserole is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese topping.
- Boost nutrition by adding spinach, kale, or black beans to the vegetable mix.
