Looking for a hearty yet healthy dinner recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrition?
Look no further than this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake!
Combining lean ground turkey, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Let’s get started on this satisfying recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Flavorful and Nutritious: A perfect balance of savory ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and aromatic seasonings.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple steps.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Perfect for cooking in bulk and reheating throughout the week.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: A wholesome dish that fits many dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious bake:
- Ground turkey: Lean or extra-lean, depending on your preference.
- Sweet potatoes: Peeled and diced for even cooking.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach add color and nutrition.
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for a smoky, savory kick.
- Cheese (optional): Shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, melty topping.
- Olive oil: Helps roast the sweet potatoes to golden perfection.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
This recipe is as easy as 1-2-3!
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onions, bell peppers, and any other vegetables you plan to use.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Cook the Ground Turkey
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
4. Combine and Bake
- In a baking dish, layer the roasted sweet potatoes and cooked turkey mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Customize Veggies: Use what you have on hand—zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms work great!
- Double the Recipe: This dish tastes even better as leftovers.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Mexican-Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.
- Italian-Inspired: Include marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and shredded mozzarella.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower or butternut squash.
How to Serve and Store
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this dish on its own, or pair it with a fresh green salad or crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal. You can find our salad recipes here.
- Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
FAQ’s
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Zucchini, broccoli, mushrooms, or even frozen peas make great additions to this dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like vegan cheddar.
Can I substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the bake will have a less sweet flavor. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well.
Healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With tender roasted sweet potatoes, savory ground turkey, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a wholesome one-pan meal that your family will love.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Starch
- 3 medium sweet potatoes about 1.5 lbs, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 large bell pepper chopped (any color)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey lean or extra-lean
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onion, bell pepper, and spinach.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season with cumin and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
- In a baking dish, layer the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked turkey mixture, and spinach.
- Top with shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can you substitute fresh sweet potatoes for frozen?
Yes, that works!