Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors in one satisfying bake. The earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the lean, juicy ground turkey, creating a hearty meal that is both comforting and nutritious. The burst of colors from the red bell pepper and the melted cheese on top make this dish not just tasty, but visually appealing too! It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal preps throughout the week, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Every bite delivers a pleasant melody of flavors and textures, from the creamy sweet potatoes to the rich turkey. In this article, you’ll learn about the fresh ingredients, the easy preparation steps, and how to serve this fantastic bake. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome, nutritious ingredients.
- Ease of Preparation: A simple one-pan dish that saves time and effort.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and vitamins from vegetables.
- Versatility: Customize with your favorite spices or veggies.
- Presentation: A colorful and inviting dish that impresses at the table.
You’ll love how easy and satisfying this recipe is!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
(Note: Times may vary.)
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, start with selecting 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, and fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish.
Main Protein
Ground Turkey
- You typically use lean ground turkey for a healthier choice that absorbs flavors well.
- Prepare by browning it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, ground chicken or beef works just as well.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and browning.
Starch
Sweet Potatoes
- Use two large sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and hearty texture.
- Prepare by peeling and dicing them into small cubes for quick cooking.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, butternut squash or regular potatoes can also be used.
- Cook them until fork-tender, but be careful not to overcook them before adding to the bake.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
Smoked Paprika, Ground Cumin, and Dried Thyme
- Utilizing these spices enhances the dish’s flavor profile, making it aromatic and savory.
- There’s no specific preparation needed—just measure and mix them in.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, chili powder or Italian seasoning can add a different twist.
- Remember, spices should be fresh to ensure maximum flavor.
Aromatics & Vegetables
Onion, Garlic, and Red Bell Pepper
- Onions add sweetness, garlic provides depth, and red bell peppers bring color and crunch.
- Prepare by dicing the onion and pepper, and mincing the garlic.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, shallots or green bell pepper can substitute.
- Make sure the vegetables are chopped small to integrate well into the bake.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
Cheese and Fresh Herbs
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese creates a bubbly, gooey topping.
- Add it on top in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, vegan cheese or skipping cheese entirely suits dietary needs.
- Garnishing with parsley or cilantro adds a fresh touch and vibrant color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is simple, as it’s all done in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the bake cooks evenly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink, enhancing the flavor with a nice golden crust.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sweet Potatoes
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and infuse into the mixture.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the turkey-sweet potato mix into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake Until Tender
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are slightly caramelized.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This step adds a lovely layer of gooey goodness.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic look.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a green salad or crusty bread to balance flavors.
- Portions: Best served warm, and a generous scoop per plate showcases its heartiness.
- Beverage Pairing: A light white wine or sparkling water complements the dish beautifully.
This bake is sure to be a hit!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavor by adding a splash of hot sauce or your favorite chili flakes.
- Customize with seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a heat boost.
- Italian Twist: Substitute Italian seasoning and add marinara sauce for an Italian flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese before baking for extra creaminess and tang.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen ground turkey?
Yes, frozen ground turkey can be used; just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even browning.
2. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Not as-is, due to sweet potatoes. Consider substituting with cauliflower for lower carbs.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.
4. What can I customize in this recipe?
Feel free to switch out vegetables or adjust spice levels to your taste preferences.
5. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the turkey and aromatics first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a heartwarming dish that bursts with flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings with friends. The combination of textures and colors will surely impress, making it a dish you’ll want to prepare time and time again. Enjoy this delicious bake and watch your loved ones savor every bite!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey Lean ground turkey works best.
Starch
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced For their natural sweetness.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Enhances flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin Use to give depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme Fresh spices create maximum flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Provides depth.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced Brings color and crunch.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese Add in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- to taste fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish Adds a fresh touch.
Cooking Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes along with smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
