Hearty Turkey Sweet Potato Dish

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole combines lean protein with nutrient-rich vegetables for a comforting, balanced meal that satisfies the whole family. The naturally sweet potatoes complement the savory turkey perfectly, creating layers of delicious flavor in every bite.

I created this recipe during a particularly hectic month when I needed nutritious dinners that could be prepped ahead. My children, typically skeptical of new dishes, requested seconds and have since declared it their favorite healthy comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey: provides lean protein without excess fat while still delivering rich flavor
• 2 medium sweet potatoes: loaded with vitamins A and C offering natural sweetness that balances the savory elements
• 1 small onion: creates an aromatic foundation for the dish
• 1 bell pepper: adds color, crunch, and vitamin C look for firm peppers with vibrant color
• 2 cloves garlic: infuses essential savory notes throughout the casserole
• 1 cup spinach: sneaks in extra nutrients and Iron use fresh for best texture
• 1 can diced tomatoes: provides moisture and tangy depth drain well to prevent excess liquid
• 1 teaspoon paprika: adds subtle smokiness
• 1 teaspoon cumin: brings earthy warmth that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: adds Mediterranean flair
• Salt and pepper: enhances all other flavors in the dish
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: creates that irresistible golden top layer
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: for sautéing the vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Turn your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish. Taking this simple step prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup significantly easier.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add your diced sweet potatoes and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them partially cooked but still firm enough to hold their shape when layered. Look for slight browning on the edges which adds caramelized flavor.

Cook the Turkey Mixture:

In the same skillet where you cooked the sweet potatoes, add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. The meat should be crumbly and evenly browned. Add your chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the cooked turkey. Sauté for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become aromatic. The onions should become translucent but not brown.

Add Seasonings and Spinach:

Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and sprinkle in paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This brief cooking time allows the herbs and spices to bloom in the heat, releasing their essential oils for maximum flavor. Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts completely, which happens quickly in about 30 seconds.

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread half of your cooked sweet potatoes across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Pour the entire turkey mixture on top, spreading it evenly to the edges. This middle layer contains most of your protein and vegetables. Add the remaining sweet potatoes as the top layer, distributing them evenly across the surface.

Bake and Add Cheese:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This covered baking period ensures everything heats through completely. Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven uncovered for 10 more minutes. Watch for the cheese to become completely melted with light golden spots appearing on top.

Serve and Enjoy:

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the layers set and makes it easier to portion and serve. Scoop generous servings that include all the delicious layers.

Save

The sweet potatoes are truly the star of this dish. I discovered their perfect pairing with ground turkey years ago when trying to create healthier alternatives to traditional casseroles. My grandmother always said sweet potatoes bring both nutrition and comfort to the table, and this recipe proves her right every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or substitute it with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The casserole will still be delicious and flavorful without the cheese.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole works well as a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal. A light side dish complements the hearty nature of the casserole.

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey with something else?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but the overall dish will still be delicious.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! This casserole is versatile and works well with additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to cook any watery vegetables beforehand to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.