This Healthy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bake is a simple, tasty dinner that combines lean ground turkey with sweet potatoes for a comforting, nutritious meal. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and softness, while the turkey brings in a nice, hearty protein punch. It’s a one-pan dish that’s easy to prepare and fills your kitchen with wonderful smells as it cooks.
I love making this bake on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and doesn’t leave me with a pile of dishes to clean. One of my favorite things about it is how versatile it is—you can easily add in your favorite veggies or a sprinkle of cheese on top for a little extra flavor without much effort. It’s healthy but still feels like a warm, home-cooked comfort meal.
When I serve this dish, I like to pair it with a simple green salad or steamed green beans to keep things fresh and balanced. It’s the kind of dinner that leaves you feeling satisfied and cozy without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some good-for-you ingredients, and the leftovers are just as delicious for the next day’s meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean turkey keeps this dish healthy and light. If you want more moisture or flavor, try ground chicken or lean ground beef. For a vegetarian twist, use cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.
Sweet Potatoes: These bring natural sweetness and soften nicely when cooked. You can swap them for butternut squash or regular potatoes if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme add warmth and depth without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to customize with chili powder or oregano based on your taste.
Mozzarella Cheese: Part-skim helps keep fat low but still melts beautifully. If dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or omit it for a lighter bake.
How Do You Ensure the Sweet Potatoes Cook Evenly Without Getting Mushy?
Sweet potatoes need to be tender but hold their shape in the bake. Here’s how:
- Cut them into uniform ½-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
- Steam or boil until just fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes—don’t overcook!
- Drain any excess water well to prevent the bake from becoming watery.
- Mix gently with the meat so the cubes stay intact when baked.
This method makes sure your sweet potatoes stay soft but not mushy, giving the bake a nice balance of textures.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking ground turkey evenly and sautéing onions and garlic.
- Medium saucepan or steamer – helps you cook sweet potatoes just right without mushiness.
- 8×8-inch baking dish – holds everything together and fits nicely in the oven for even baking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the turkey mixture without scratching your pan.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping sweet potatoes, onions, and garlic with ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different protein taste.
- Add chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Try shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese if you want a sharper, bolder cheese flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for a little mild heat and spice kick.
Healthy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
Spices and Toppings:
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy and satisfying meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including chopping and cooking the turkey mixture, plus 8-10 minutes to cook the sweet potatoes, and around 20-25 minutes baking time. In total, expect about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Meanwhile, steam or boil the diced sweet potatoes until just tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
3. Combine and Bake:
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked turkey mixture, sweet potatoes, and chicken or vegetable broth. Transfer this mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like, then enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps it brown better.
Can I Substitute Sweet Potatoes with Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular potatoes work well, though they may require slightly longer cooking times to become tender. Keep an eye on them while steaming or boiling to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Bake?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are great additions. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and cook them slightly before mixing into the bake to ensure they’re tender.
