Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, and cumin. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cooked ground turkey and mix well.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Spread the sweet potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the ground turkey and vegetable mixture over the top. Drizzle the chicken or vegetable broth over the dish to keep it moist.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake warm!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and balanced: This dish combines lean protein, healthy carbs, and veggies for a complete meal.
• Family-friendly: The comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
• Meal prep-friendly: It stores well and reheats beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory turkey perfectly.
• Adjust the spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste preference.
• Don’t skip the broth: It prevents the bake from drying out during cooking.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian version: Swap the turkey for black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Cheesy upgrade: Mix in cream cheese or sour cream for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With a side salad: Pair this bake with a crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.
• With crusty bread: Serve with warm bread to scoop up the delicious sauce.
• With a dollop of sour cream: Add a creamy, tangy topping for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and works just as well in this recipe.