Laura Mariano
A Cozy, Protein-Packed One-Pan Wonder
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and warm spices, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light enough to keep you energized.
Inspired by favorites like Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake – The Absolute Foodie and Wellness by Kay, this dish combines roasted sweet potatoes with savory ground turkey and colorful vegetables for a balanced, flavorful meal. It’s easy to customize with cheese, greens, or spice blends to suit your taste.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this bake delivers cozy vibes and nutritional value in every bite.
What Is Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
This dish is a casserole-style blend of lean ground turkey, roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed vegetables. It’s a wholesome, protein-rich meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
The sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber, while the turkey provides lean protein. Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring color and nutrients, making this a well-rounded dish.
It’s highly customizable—add spinach for extra greens, sprinkle cheese for richness, or adjust spices to match your mood. Whether baked fresh or reheated, it maintains its flavor and texture beautifully.
Perfect for meal prep, this bake stores well and reheats like a dream. It’s a go-to for anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing comfort.
Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% or higher)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini or 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
Pro Tip: Roast sweet potatoes separately before combining for extra caramelization and depth of flavor.
This ingredient list offers a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Feel free to swap veggies or spices based on what’s in season or in your fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast sweet potatoes: Toss cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.
- Sauté turkey mixture: While potatoes roast, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add ground turkey, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until turkey is browned and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes). Stir in chopped zucchini or bell pepper and cook for 3–4 more minutes.
- Combine and bake: In a large baking dish, mix roasted sweet potatoes with the turkey-veggie mixture. Add optional spinach and cheese if using. Stir to combine evenly.
- Bake: Place dish in oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or add avocado slices for creaminess.
Bold Tips:
- Don’t overcook the turkey—remove from heat once browned to avoid dryness.
- Roast sweet potatoes separately for better texture and flavor.
- Layer flavors by seasoning each component individually.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results:
- Overcooking the turkey: Lean turkey dries out quickly. Cook just until browned and no longer pink.
- Undercooking sweet potatoes: Tough or underdone cubes ruin the texture. Roast until fork-tender and caramelized.
- Skipping seasoning: This dish relies on spices for depth. Season each layer—turkey, veggies, and potatoes—for full flavor.
- Using too much cheese: While cheese adds richness, too much can overpower the dish. Use sparingly or opt for a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Crowding the pan: When roasting sweet potatoes, spread them out to ensure even browning.
- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven ensures proper roasting and baking consistency.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll get a flavorful, balanced bake every time.
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe – Healthy Casserole with Veggies & Lean Protein
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Main:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% or higher)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini or 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ¼ tsp chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast sweet potatoes: Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.
- Sauté turkey mixture: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant. Add turkey, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in zucchini or bell pepper and cook 3–4 minutes.
- Combine and bake: In a baking dish, mix roasted sweet potatoes with turkey mixture. Add spinach and cheese if using. Stir to combine.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or a drizzle of yogurt.
Notes
- Flavor layering: Season each component individually for depth.
- Roasting tip: Spread sweet potatoes evenly to avoid steaming.
- Make it vegan: Swap turkey for lentils or chickpeas.
- Storage: Keeps in fridge for 4 days or freezer for 2 months.
- Reheat with broth to prevent dryness.
