Sweet potato ground turkey has become my go-to for a healthy and satisfying weeknight meal, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! I remember the first time I tried combining these two ingredients; I was looking for a way to make ground turkey more exciting and add some natural sweetness. The aroma of smoked paprika and cumin filling my kitchen, mingling with the tender, earthy scent of sweet potatoes, was absolutely divine. This easy ground turkey and sweet potato dinner is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a winner for busy evenings. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

This dish is a weeknight wonder for so many reasons:

• It’s incredibly healthy and packed with nutrients.
• The combination of sweet potatoes and ground turkey is naturally satisfying.
• It’s a one-skillet wonder, meaning less cleanup!
• The smoky paprika and cumin create a warm, inviting flavor profile.
• This ground turkey sweet potato casserole is super versatile.
• It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy evenings.
• You’ll love this easy ground turkey sweet potato meal.
• It’s naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal:

• 1 pound ground turkey – I like to use 93% lean for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
• 2 cups diced sweet potato – aim for about 1/2-inch cubes so they cook evenly. This forms the base of our ground turkey with sweet potatoes dish.
• 1 cup chopped onion – about one medium onion, it adds a lovely savory depth. Onions are a nutritional powerhouse.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic foundation.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – this gives our bake a wonderful smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin – adds a warm, earthy note that complements the sweet potato.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best!
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – this helps create a moist environment for the sweet potatoes to tenderize.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of freshness at the end.

How to Make Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

This recipe for ground turkey with sweet potatoes is straightforward and yields a fantastic meal. You’ll love how easily it comes together for a healthy weeknight dinner.

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes up perfectly.
2. Step 2: Grab a large skillet and cook the ground turkey over medium heat. Break it up with your spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Now, add the diced sweet potato, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the same skillet with the turkey. Sauté this mixture for about 5-7 minutes. You want the onion to soften and become fragrant, and the sweet potatoes to start warming through.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the spices coat the turkey and vegetables. The aroma at this stage is amazing!
5. Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth. This liquid will help steam the sweet potatoes and create a lovely sauce for our turkey and sweet potato hash. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Step 6: Cover the skillet tightly and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This is where the magic happens – the sweet potatoes will become perfectly tender. You can check them with a fork; they should be easily pierced.

7. Step 7: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in the fresh chopped parsley. It adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness to the dish.
8. Step 8: Carefully transfer the entire contents of the skillet into a baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly.
9. Step 9: Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You’re just looking to heat everything through and get a lightly golden top on this delicious sweet potato ground turkey bake.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

Want to elevate your ground turkey sweet potato skillet? Follow these tips for guaranteed success:

• Don’t overcook the sweet potatoes in the skillet before baking; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a brighter finish.
• Ensure your diced sweet potato is uniform in size for even cooking.
• For a deeper flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes first or using smoked paprika.

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake?

The secret is in the balance of flavors and textures! Sautéing the aromatics and spices with the turkey before adding the liquid helps them bloom. Plus, ensuring the sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy before the final bake is key to this sweet potato ground turkey dish.

Can I make Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare this turkey and sweet potato bowl ahead of time. Assemble the bake in the baking dish (up to Step 7), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the final baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake?

A common pitfall is undercooked sweet potatoes. Make sure to simmer them long enough in step 6 until fork-tender. Another mistake is overcrowding the skillet, which steams instead of sautés. Cook the turkey in batches if necessary to get a good sear and drain excess fat properly.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

This versatile ground turkey sweet potato bake is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For a complete and satisfying meal, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, a side of quinoa or brown rice works wonderfully to soak up any extra juices from this delicious turkey sweet potato bowl. It’s a truly wholesome and comforting dinner option. You might also enjoy our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a refreshing side.

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

This healthy ground turkey sweet potato bake is a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this ground turkey with sweet potatoes recipe. For more information on nutritional data, you can consult resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

Once this delicious ground turkey sweet potato casserole has cooled completely, it’s time to store any leftovers properly. I like to use airtight containers, which are perfect for both the refrigerator and the freezer. You can keep this dish in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t get to enjoy it within that time, freezing is a great option! It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, you can gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop individual portions in the microwave for a quick reheat. Just ensure it’s heated through before enjoying this healthy ground turkey with sweet potatoes meal again. This recipe is a great alternative to Spaghetti with Mushroom Sauce for a lighter meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake

What are the benefits of eating sweet potato and ground turkey?

This ground turkey sweet potato dinner is a nutritional powerhouse! Sweet potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, plus vitamins A and C. Ground turkey provides lean protein, essential for muscle building and feeling full. Together, they make for a balanced and healthy meal that fuels your body.

Can I substitute the ground turkey with another protein?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed as a sweet potato ground turkey dish, you can easily swap in ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based crumbles like lentils or firm tofu. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed for your chosen protein. If you’re looking for other protein-rich meals, consider our Pappardelle with Beef Ragu.

What other vegetables work well in this Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake?

This ground turkey sweet potato skillet is very forgiving! Feel free to add other hearty vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, chopped broccoli florets, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the end. They all complement the flavors beautifully. Cherry tomatoes also add a lovely burst of flavor.

How can I make this a spicier Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake?

If you enjoy a little heat, I recommend adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices in Step 4. You could also include a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving this delicious ground turkey with sweet potatoes.

Variations of Sweet Potato Ground Turkey Bake You Can Try

This versatile ground turkey sweet potato bake is a fantastic base, and I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to keep your meals exciting:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic for a fiery sweet potato ground turkey chili twist.
• Mediterranean Flair: Swap the cumin for oregano and add some Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese before the final bake for a Greek-inspired dish.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture in your ground turkey sweet potato casserole.
• Sheet Pan Dinner: Instead of baking in a dish, spread the mixture onto a baking sheet with the sweet potatoes cut into smaller cubes. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, for a crispy turkey and sweet potato hash. This method is similar to how we might prepare roasted carrots for soup.

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