Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any day of the week. Tender ground turkey combines with sweet potatoes and melted cheese to create a satisfying meal that warms both heart and home. This casserole is easy to prepare and sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups, cubed)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground turkey and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh spinach or kale and cook until the greens are wilted.
5. Step 5: In a mixing bowl, combine the turkey and vegetable mixture with the cubed sweet potatoes; toss well to mix evenly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté the sweet potatoes briefly before mixing them in to soften and caramelize their edges.
• Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild spicy kick.
• Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
• Top with breadcrumbs sprinkled with a little olive oil for a crispy crust.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Are sweet potatoes necessary for this recipe?

Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess, but you can substitute with regular potatoes or butternut squash if preferred. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they are tender.

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 62 reviews

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines lean ground turkey with nutritious sweet potatoes, fresh vegetables, and gooey melted cheese. Baked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices, this casserole offers a comforting, well-balanced meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The blend of savory turkey and sweet potatoes creates a delightful contrast, while the spinach or kale adds a healthy green touch.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups, cubed)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, approximately 5–7 minutes.
3. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned turkey. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Wilt the greens: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted, mixing thoroughly with the turkey and vegetables.
5. Combine with sweet potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, blend the turkey and vegetable mixture with the cubed sweet potatoes, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Notes

• You can substitute kale with spinach depending on your preference or availability.
• Make sure to cube the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking in the casserole.
• For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• This casserole can be prepared a day ahead; just cover and refrigerate before baking.

Keywords: ground turkey casserole, sweet potato casserole, healthy casserole, baked turkey recipe, comfort food, family dinner