This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a warm and hearty dish. It combines lean turkey with sweet potatoes for a filling meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients!
What I love about this bake is how easy it is to put together. Just mix everything in one dish, and you’re set! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in some veggies. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein is a star in this recipe. If you want a richer flavor, you can use ground chicken or even ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes give this dish a sweet and creamy texture. If they’re not available, russet or butternut squash can work as substitutes, though they will change the overall flavor slightly.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients add great flavor depth. If you’re short on time, you can use onion and garlic powder in place of fresh ones, but fresh is still the best choice for flavor.
Tomato Sauce: You can use crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or even tomato paste mixed with water. If you prefer a different flavor, consider a salsa for added spice!
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin provide a nice warmth to the dish. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do. Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.
Cilantro or Parsley: Both herbs brighten the final dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can stick with parsley or even use basil for a unique twist.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Sweet potatoes need special care to get the right texture. To cook them perfectly, follow these tips:
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into even cubes (about 1-inch) to cook uniformly.
- Boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes until tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork, but not falling apart.
- Drain and let them sit for a few minutes. This helps moisture evaporate, giving a firmer texture in the bake.
These steps will help your sweet potatoes hold their shape and taste great in the final dish!
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake will take about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 20 minutes to cook in the oven. Including cooking the sweet potatoes, the total time is around 45 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven will be ready when your dish is assembled!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the sweet potatoes for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork, but not mushy. Drain them well and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful scent.
4. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to your skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, and stir occasionally. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure there’s no pink left!
5. Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if you’re using it), and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything simmer in the skillet for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely together.
6. Combine Sweet Potatoes and Turkey:
In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked sweet potatoes into the turkey mixture. Be careful not to mash the sweet potatoes; you want them to stay chunky!
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top to make it extra cheesy and delicious!
8. Bake the Dish:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the dish is heated through and the cheese (if using) is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish your bake with fresh cilantro or parsley and add some slices of avocado on top.
10. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake! This dish makes for a wholesome meal packed with flavor. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used as a substitute for ground turkey. Just keep in mind that beef tends to have a richer flavor and more fat, so you may want to drain some of the excess fat after cooking for a healthier option.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bake?
Yes! Feel free to boost the nutrition by adding other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you cook the onions and garlic for a delicious mix!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze the bake for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating in the oven until warmed through.
Do I Have to Boil the Sweet Potatoes First?
Boiling the sweet potatoes first ensures they cook perfectly in the bake without becoming mushy. However, if you’re short on time, you can roast the cubed sweet potatoes in the oven with a drizzle of oil and seasoning until tender before mixing them in.
