Name: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 medium zucchinis, diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty and healthy one-dish meal that combines lean protein with nutritious vegetables. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

The dish is in a white rectangular baking dish, filled with large orange cubes of roasted sweet potatoes layered with brown crumbled cooked ground meat. Melted cheese, slightly browned, is scattered across the top, creating a creamy texture. Green herb leaves are sprinkled over the entire dish, adding a fresh touch of color. The food looks warm and hearty, with a mix of soft and slightly crispy parts. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Step 3: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, zucchini, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 5: Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

Swap out zucchini for bell peppers or mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
Use a cheese blend for a richer, more complex topping.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
To keep it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white square baking dish filled with a layered casserole featuring large, bright orange cubes of roasted sweet potatoes evenly spread across the base and top, mixed with browned, crumbly ground meat pieces scattered throughout. On top, melted cheese covers parts of the meat and sweet potatoes, showing a creamy, golden color with some lightly browned spots, adding a glossy texture. Fresh, chopped green herbs are sprinkled on the dish, adding a touch of vibrant green contrast. The casserole is resting on a white marbled surface, with a blurred wooden cutting board in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or beef can be substituted. Keep in mind that cooking times and fat content may vary slightly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge, then bake it when ready. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.