Introduction
Looking for a warm, healthy, and filling meal the whole family will love? Say hello to Cozy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole! This dish is the perfect mix of comfort food and good-for-you ingredients. It’s made with lean ground turkey, naturally sweet sweet potatoes, and tasty seasonings—all baked together in one dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this casserole is a great choice. Plus, it’s so easy that even beginner cooks can make it without stress. Let’s dive into how you can make this cozy dish right at home.
Ingredients – Sweet Potato Casserole
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean or extra lean)
- 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and diced into small cubes)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup canned tomatoes (diced, for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Process – Sweet Potato Casserole
Let’s break it down into easy steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives your oven time to heat up while you prepare the rest of the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, boil your diced sweet potatoes in water for about 8–10 minutes, until they are just soft but not mushy. Drain and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it becomes soft. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Spinach
Once the turkey is cooked, add your paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Then, add the spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until it wilts.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl (or the skillet if it’s oven-safe), mix the cooked sweet potatoes with the ground turkey mixture. If you want to make it creamier, add a splash of milk or cream here.
Step 6: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
Step 8: Let It Cool and Serve
Once baked, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Then, scoop out a warm, cheesy serving and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 220% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 12% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day before. Just cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to eat, bake it for about 30 minutes at 375°F until it’s fully heated.
Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
Q3: What can I use instead of ground turkey?
You can use ground chicken, ground beef, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. The taste may change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Q4: Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! You can add bell peppers, peas, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the mix. Just chop them small and cook them with the turkey.
Q5: Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you don’t add any breadcrumbs or flour-based sauces.
Final Thoughts
Cozy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a heartwarming meal that brings both flavor and nutrition to the table. It’s perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone who wants something comforting without the guilt.
The combination of sweet potatoes and seasoned turkey is so satisfying, and the melty cheese on top just takes it to the next level. It’s easy to customize, easy to store, and even easier to love. Try it out this week—you might just find your new favorite dinner!
