Introduction

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a wholesome and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines lean turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and savory spices topped with melted cheese for a hearty meal the whole family will love.

The image shows a square slice of layered casserole on a white plate, placed on a wooden table with a white marbled texture in the background. The dish has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a brown, crumbly meat mixture, the middle layer is a bright orange layer that looks like mashed sweet potatoes, and the top layer is a golden, slightly browned cheesy or egg layer that looks fluffy. Fresh green cilantro leaves are scattered on top of the dish and around the plate for garnish. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. In the blurred background, there is another similar slice on a white plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound of ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of corn, fresh or frozen
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or preferred kind)
1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
1 tablespoon of olive oil (or other cooking oil)
Butter or cooking spray for 9×13-inch baking dish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to allow it to reach the right temperature while you prepare the dish.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, corn, and black beans. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
Step 5: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and soft.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

Add a jalapeño or chili powder when sautéing the onion and garlic for a spicy kick.
Substitute ground chicken or lean beef for turkey for a different protein option.
Try different cheeses like monterey jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for varied flavor.
Include extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Add slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Batch cook by doubling the recipe and freezing half for a convenient future meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to three months; defrost overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

How to Serve

A square slice of layered casserole is shown on a white plate with a slightly raised edge. The dish has three main layers: the top layer is golden-brown and slightly crispy with a light, fluffy texture, the middle layer is a smooth, bright orange spread which looks like mashed sweet potatoes, and the bottom layer is crumbly, light brown ground meat mixed with finely chopped vegetables. Fresh green cilantro leaves are scattered on top and around the plate for decoration. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. The background features another plate with a similar slice and a soft-focus window view, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Is it okay to use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

You can use regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and nutritional benefits that enhance the dish.