Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together wholesome ingredients in a delightful way, look no further than this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole. It’s a wholesome, flavorful dish that perfectly balances savory ground turkey, sweet and tender sweet potatoes, and melty cheese, all seasoned with just the right touch of herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole never fails to deliver that cozy, satisfying vibe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole comes from simple, fresh ingredients that each add something special—whether it’s color, flavor, or texture. These essentials are easy to find but combine for a complex, mouthwatering taste that feels anything but basic.

• 1 lb lean ground turkey: The protein star of the dish, providing a lean and tender base that absorbs all the spices and flavors.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups, cubed): Sweet and creamy, they add a beautiful orange hue and a subtle natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.
• 1 medium onion (diced): Adds aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness when cooked down.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a punch of flavor that elevates every bite.
• 1 bell pepper (diced): Offers a mild crunch and vibrant color to brighten the casserole.
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale: A nutritious green that wilts down to a tender, flavorful addition.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a sharp, tangy layer of melty goodness on top.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds creamy, stretchy meltiness that complements the sharp cheddar.
• 2 tsp olive oil: Helps brown the turkey and soften the veggies while adding richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that gently spices the turkey.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy herbaceous notes that enhance the savory profile.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Before you dive into cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s at just the right temperature when your beautiful casserole is ready to bake, helping the cheese melt and the sweet potatoes cook through perfectly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and season it generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the turkey is nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. This step is key for layering rich flavor into your casserole base.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook them together until they soften and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. The sweet notes from the onions and the mild crunch of the peppers add wonderful texture and depth to your dish.

Step 4: Wilt the Greens and Combine

Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cook just until wilted. This green addition not only adds a nutrient kick but also keeps the casserole vibrant and fresh-tasting. Then, transfer this savory turkey and veggie mixture into a bowl and toss it with the cubed sweet potatoes, ensuring every bite is a wonderful balance of all those flavors.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Grease a baking dish and spread the turkey, vegetable, and sweet potato mixture evenly inside it. Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, creating a glorious cheesy blanket. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—that irresistible moment when the casserole is ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole

Garnishes

To elevate your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole presentation and burst of flavor, try garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions. A light drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt adds creamy coolness that complements the warm, cheesy casserole perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crisp green side salad or roasted Brussels sprouts adds a refreshing crunch and variety of textures. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are also fantastic for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve portions wrapped in large butter lettuce leaves for a hand-held twist. Or, spoon the casserole into small ramekins for individual servings at a dinner party—perfect for sharing and showing off your culinary skills.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making leftovers a treat to enjoy later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and even reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese gets that lovely melty texture again. For a quicker option, use the microwave, but a gentle reheat in the oven really keeps all the layers of flavor intact.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work well with this casserole’s flavor profile, though turkey tends to have a slightly richer taste.

Do I need to precook the sweet potatoes?

No need. Cubed sweet potatoes cook thoroughly while the casserole bakes, becoming tender and perfectly melded with the other ingredients.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes! You can omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast also works nicely for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. It stores well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it a fantastic option for preparing meals ahead and enjoying throughout the week.

Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to customize with your favorites like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots. Just chop and sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole combines comfort and nutrition in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its ease of preparation and rich, satisfying layers are exactly why it quickly became a personal favorite—and I’m confident it will be yours too. So go on, grab those sweet potatoes and ground turkey, and bring this cozy casserole to your table soon!

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