Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a wholesome, hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and flavorful spices baked under a melted cheese topping. This casserole is filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for families and meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 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
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy and Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or preferred type)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing 9×13-inch baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat fully while you prepare the ingredients.
- Cook the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and return skillet to stovetop.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft and translucent.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in diced sweet potatoes, corn, black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for about 10 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
- Assemble casserole: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture evenly into the dish. Spread shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbling, and sweet potatoes are fully cooked and soft.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top before serving to add color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- This casserole serves well as a main dish or paired with a fresh salad for a light side.
- Add avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream/Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and tang.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated easily.
- Customize the heat level by adding jalapeños or chili powder during sautéing.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese varieties such as monterey jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella work well as alternatives.
- The dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese or using dairy-free cheese.
- Freeze assembled casserole (unbaked) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Protein can be swapped with ground chicken or lean beef for variation.
Keywords: ground turkey casserole, sweet potato casserole, healthy weeknight dinner, baked casserole, turkey recipes, gluten free casserole, easy dinner
