Looking for a delicious dinner that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying? Meet the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake — a protein-packed, veggie-rich, cheesy comfort food that doesn’t sacrifice health for flavor. In under an hour, this vibrant and hearty one-pan meal delivers layers of savory ground turkey, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, warm spices, and melty cheese. It’s a perfect weeknight winner that appeals to adults and kids alike — quick to prep, easy to love, and even easier to clean up!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat for Success
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for that smooth transition from stovetop to oven.
Step 2: Build Flavor with a Sizzle
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and crumbly — about 5–6 minutes. This base locks in all the meaty, savory flavor your bake needs.
Step 3: Veggie Power Combo
Stir in the garlic, diced bell pepper, and sweet potatoes. Add smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring to coat the vegetables and meat in spices. This step infuses the dish with deep, earthy flavor and color.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Transfer the turkey and veggie mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Magic
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot and savor every delicious bite — perfect as is or with a side salad or garlic bread.
Variations
- Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Top with avocado slices or sour cream for a creamy twist.
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Cooking Note
- Dice sweet potatoes into small even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Pre-shredded cheese saves time, but fresh-grated melts better.
- Don’t skip covering with foil — it steams the sweet potatoes to tenderness before broiling with cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This bake is a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp arugula salad, roasted green beans, or garlic toast. Add a fried egg on top for a brunch twist, or pack it in containers for a meal-prep lunch win.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warm. You can freeze portions before adding the cheese, then thaw and bake with cheese when ready to serve.
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~435
Protein: ~32g
Sodium: ~510mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Swap cheese with nutritional yeast or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version. Choose extra-lean turkey to reduce fat or add black beans for fiber. Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and beta carotene, so no need for added sugar or artificial ingredients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the turkey — stop cooking when it’s just browned.
- Undercooking sweet potatoes — test with a fork before adding cheese.
- Not seasoning enough — taste before baking to adjust spices.
- Using large chunks of potato — smaller cubes cook faster and more evenly.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is your ultimate weeknight solution — easy, nutritious, and oh-so-cheesy. It’s flexible, forgiving, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or prepping for busy nights, this satisfying dish will never disappoint. Don’t forget to save leftovers — they taste even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the full dish, refrigerate before baking, and just pop it in the oven when ready.
Q2: Can I use white potatoes instead?
A: Absolutely — Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great too.
Q3: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, freeze before the final cheese bake for best texture.
Q4: What if I don’t have paprika?
A: Try chili powder or leave it out — the dish will still be flavorful!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious weeknight dinner that’s hearty, healthy, and super cheesy! This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake brings together bold spices, lean protein, and melty cheese for the ultimate family-friendly comfort food.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
3. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, sweet potatoes, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
5. Transfer to baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Uncover, top with shredded cheese, and bake for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
Make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using plant-based alternatives.
Use ground chicken or beef if desired.
Freeze before baking cheese layer, then reheat and finish in oven for fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 435
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg