Healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Looking for a balanced, satisfying dinner that’s both hearty and healthy? This Healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a one-pan wonder packed with lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and bold spices. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a simple, nourishing dish with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey and sweet potato bake hits all the right notes—comforting, nutritious, and full of flavor. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with savory ground turkey seasoned with cumin, paprika, and garlic. It’s a filling meal that’s low in fat, high in protein, and packed with nutrients. Best of all, it’s easy to make, and you only need one pan and a skillet!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.

3. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked through.

5. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

6. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly season the turkey mixture.

7. Once the sweet potatoes are done, transfer them to a baking dish and top with the seasoned turkey mixture.

8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

9. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before the final bake for a cheesy twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for heat.

• Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.

• Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans and a dash of chili powder and top with avocado or salsa.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook both components ahead and assemble before the final bake. Store in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely. This recipe works well with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles.

3. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

They should be tender when pierced with a fork and lightly browned on the edges after roasting.

4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, let the bake cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

5. Can I use pre-cooked sweet potatoes?

You can! Just skip the roasting step and reduce the oven time after assembling the bake to about 10 minutes to heat through.

6. What can I serve this with?

It’s a complete meal on its own but also pairs well with a side salad, steamed greens, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

7. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

It’s best to use fresh for texture, but if using canned, drain them well and reduce roasting time accordingly.

8. How do I make this dairy-free?

The recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese. Just skip the cheese topping to keep it dairy-free.

9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace the turkey with lentils, tofu, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

10. What herbs go well with this dish?

In addition to cilantro, parsley, chives, or green onions make great garnishes for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a perfect weeknight dinner—nutritious, filling, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and a one-pan approach, it’s great for meal prepping or feeding the whole family. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome meal that brings comfort without the guilt!

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