Name: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)

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If you’re searching for a dinner that checks all the boxes—healthy, filling, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor—this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake might just become your new go-to. With lean ground turkey, roasted sweet potatoes, and a savory blend of spices, this satisfying bake is perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or even meal prep sessions.

What makes this dish stand out is its perfect balance of earthy, sweet, and savory flavors, all tied together with a melty layer of cheese. It’s a one-dish wonder that feels indulgent without sacrificing nutrition. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with whatever vegetables or seasonings you have on hand.

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

High in lean protein and fiber
Naturally gluten-free and customizable
One-pan convenience with minimal cleanup
Perfect for make-ahead meals or leftovers
Full of cozy, comforting flavors
Kid- and family-approved

Ingredients

Tip: You can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

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
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in garlic, bell pepper, sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spices are fragrant and the vegetables begin to soften.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer everything from the skillet into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across 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, and serve warm.

Variations

Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before baking for extra nutrients.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Swap the cheese: Use pepper jack, provolone, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Make it dairy-free: Omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
Try ground chicken or even crumbled tofu for a different protein option.
Add beans: Stir in a can of black beans for added fiber and protein.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground beef or even ground chicken both work well in this dish. Just be sure to drain excess fat.

Are the sweet potatoes supposed to be soft before baking?

No need to cook them ahead of time. They’ll soften during baking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely—just leave off the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check spice blends and cheese if using packaged options.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire dish up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed.

What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or broccoli would be great additions.

Do I need to cover the dish with foil?

Yes, covering helps steam and soften the sweet potatoes. Uncovering later allows the cheese to melt and brown.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Definitely. Let the bake cool completely, portion it out, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

How do I make this recipe low-carb?

Substitute the sweet potatoes with cauliflower or butternut squash for a lower-carb option.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger casserole dish or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is an easy, nutritious dinner your whole family will ask for again and again. With a great mix of protein, fiber, and veggies—all wrapped in cozy, savory flavors—it’s a feel-good meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or convenience. Perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or even your next meal prep session.