Why Make This Recipe
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a healthy and delicious dish that brings together lean protein and nutritious veggies in one convenient meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and good for you! The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness, while the ground turkey keeps it light. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal prep for the week, this recipe is a great choice.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
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, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Ground Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the veggies are lightly softened.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
You can serve this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake as a complete meal on its own. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for extra nutrition. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and the flavors get even better the longer it sits, making it a great leftover option.
How to Store Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
To store leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spices to your taste – add a bit of chili powder if you like it spicy!
- You can use ground beef or chicken if you prefer a different protein.
Variation
You can make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring all your ingredients, including spices, are gluten-free. Additionally, using different types of cheese can change the flavor and texture, so experiment with your favorites!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the mixture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. What can I substitute for ground turkey?
You can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.