Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Bake

Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prep, comforting, and family-approved? The Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Bake checks all the boxes. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish packed with lean protein, complex carbs, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness to keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re aiming to eat healthier, meal prep for the week, or simply want a warm casserole that satisfies without guilt, this dish deserves a spot in your rotation. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt to different dietary needs.

According to the USDA’s nutritional database, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamin A, making them a fantastic base for any meal. Combine that with the lean, high-protein benefits of ground turkey—as highlighted by Healthline’s guide on turkey health benefits—and you’ve got a nutrient-dense powerhouse on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this one-dish wonder, gather the following:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional add-ins:

• Black beans or kidney beans
• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Sour cream as a topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey and Veggies

In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Combine Ingredients

Stir in:

• Diced tomatoes (with juice)
• Tomato sauce
• Cooked rice
• Chopped parsley
• Chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper

Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Sweet Potatoes

Fold in the cubed sweet potatoes until evenly mixed. This gives the bake its hearty, satisfying texture.

4. Bake

Transfer everything to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

5. Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for added zing.

Flavor Variations

This dish is super flexible. Try out these customizations:

• Cheese Options: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or provolone
• Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini
• Meat Swap: Use ground chicken or beef if desired
• Make It Spicy: Add hot sauce or chopped jalapeños

Nutritional Benefits

This bake isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients:

• Sweet potatoes offer slow-digesting carbs and fiber
• Ground turkey delivers a lean source of protein
• Low in saturated fat, especially if using reduced-fat cheese
• High in vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron
• One serving can help support immune health, muscle growth, and digestion

How to Serve It

Pair this bake with:

• A crisp green salad
• Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies
• Quinoa or brown rice for extra grains
• Cornbread or crusty bread for comfort

It also makes a great standalone meal prep option.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through

To maintain texture, avoid microwaving multiple times.

Meal Prep Time-Savers

Want to streamline your weeknight dinners?

• Use pre-chopped veggies or frozen diced sweet potatoes
• Make the turkey mixture in advance and store in the fridge
• Assemble the casserole the night before and bake when ready
• Double the recipe and freeze half

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the turkey: It becomes dry—just brown it lightly
• Undercooked sweet potatoes: Cube them small for faster cooking
• Too much sauce: Makes it soggy—stick to the quantities listed
• Under-seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices, especially cumin and chili

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the entire dish a day ahead and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

What’s a good substitute for ground turkey?
Ground chicken, ground beef, or plant-based crumbles work great.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
It’s not recommended—they’re often too soft and syrupy. Stick with fresh.

Is this dish keto or low-carb?
No, due to the sweet potatoes and rice. To reduce carbs, omit the rice and use cauliflower.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the turkey and veggies first, then combine everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours.

What other veggies go well in this casserole?
Zucchini, spinach, kale, corn, mushrooms, or shredded carrots are all delicious additions.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Bake is an easy, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for families, fitness-minded folks, or anyone craving a warm, comforting dish. It’s a perfect blend of healthy, filling, and totally delicious—and with a few tweaks, it suits nearly every diet or preference.