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A close-up of a delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, showcasing its golden-brown topping and savory filling.

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty and wholesome casserole that combines savory ground turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. It's an easy-to-make, nourishing, and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into roughly 1/2-inch cubes.
  • Optional: Boil the diced sweet potatoes for about 5-7 minutes until they're slightly tender, or microwave them with a little water for about 5 minutes.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Stir in the diced red bell pepper, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper is slightly softened.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey mixture with the prepared sweet potatoes. Stir gently to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For sweeter flavor, use Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes. Adjust spices to your preference. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. To make ahead, cook the turkey mixture and dice sweet potatoes, storing them separately in the refrigerator. The bake can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Top with chopped green onions, sour cream, Greek yogurt, or avocado slices before serving. Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for variations.