Description
A wholesome and comforting Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake combining lean ground turkey, tender diced sweet potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic herbs, all topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection. This easy-to-make, flavorful casserole is perfect for a nutritious family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
- 1 onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced (about 1 cup)
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, set the turkey aside.
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add the diced sweet potatoes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but are not fully cooked.
- Add Aromatics and Bell Pepper: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly incorporate the flavors.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top with shredded cheese. Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the dish in the oven and bake covered for 20-25 minutes to allow all ingredients to meld and the sweet potatoes to cook completely.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and become bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or lean beef for the ground turkey if desired.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Ensure sweet potatoes are diced uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
