Sweet Potato & Ground Turkey Bake-A Cozy, Protein-Packed Casserole with Layers of Flavor and Color

Introduction

This Sweet Potato & Ground Turkey Bake is a one-dish wonder that checks all the boxes: it’s nutritious, satisfying, and easy to customize. Thinly sliced sweet potatoes create a naturally sweet base, while lean ground turkey brings savory depth. Add sautéed onions, garlic, and your favorite seasonings, and you’ve got a casserole that’s both comforting and clean-eating friendly.

Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping lunches for the week, this dish is a go-to for anyone who loves simple ingredients and bold flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ¼” thick)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional—cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Mixture
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Layer the Bake
Arrange half of the sweet potato slices in the bottom of the baking dish.
Spread half of the turkey mixture over the sweet potatoes.
Repeat with remaining sweet potatoes and turkey mixture.
If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to melt and brown the cheese (if using).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

Tips for Success

• Use a mandoline for evenly sliced sweet potatoes.
• Add veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy with chili flakes or jalapeños.
• Swap the protein: ground chicken, beef, or plant-based crumbles work too.
• Make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using a vegan alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans.
• Pair with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Enjoy as a standalone meal or with crusty bread.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato & Ground Turkey Bake is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for comfort or clean eating, it’s a dish that delivers every time.