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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe | Healthy & Delicious

I recently tried making this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe, and I have to say, it quickly became one of my go-to weeknight dinners. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, savory ground turkey, and melty cheese was absolutely satisfying. It’s a healthy, low-effort meal that leaves you feeling nourished without feeling weighed down.

I love how versatile this recipe is—perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. After making it a few times, I realized it’s both comforting and surprisingly easy to customize. If you enjoy hearty poultry dishes, you might also like the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious casserole. I’ve included tips to make your dish even better.

Ground turkey – 1 lb; choose lean turkey for a healthier option that browns nicely.
Sweet potatoes – 2 medium; fresh, firm potatoes work best to avoid excess moisture.
Zucchini – 2 medium; slice and quarter for even cooking. Avoid frozen zucchini, as it releases too much water.
Parmesan cheese – 2/3 cup, freshly grated; grating it yourself gives better flavor and melts beautifully.
Olive oil – 5 tbsp; enhances flavor and keeps the veggies from drying out.
Garlic powder – 1 1/2 tsp; adds warmth and depth without overpowering.
Rosemary – 1 tsp; a little herb goes a long way in boosting flavor.
Salt and pepper – to taste; essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.

Note: several servings

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some creative options:

Dairy-free: Swap parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Low-carb: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
Protein swaps: Use ground chicken, beef, or turkey sausage instead of ground turkey. You can also enjoy a lighter twist with the Turkey Enchilada Skillet Recipe.
Veggie add-ins: Try bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Flavor boosters: Sprinkle smoked paprika, chili flakes, or fresh herbs for a twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick look at the time commitment:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Equipment You Need

Make sure you have the right tools on hand:

Oven – for baking the casserole evenly.
Large baking dish – to hold all ingredients and allow even roasting.
Skillet or sauté pan – to brown the ground turkey.
Cutting board and knife – for chopping veggies safely.
Grater – for fresh parmesan cheese.
Mixing spoon – to combine ingredients thoroughly.

How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Toss them with 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until tender.

Cooking the Ground Turkey

While the sweet potatoes bake, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey along with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 8–10 minutes.

Preparing the Zucchini

Chop the zucchini into slices and then quarter them for even cooking. This ensures they roast nicely without getting mushy. Set aside until the sweet potatoes are done.

Combining Ingredients

Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and add the browned ground turkey and zucchini. Gently toss everything together, drizzle with 2 more tbsp of olive oil, and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese melts and everything is heated through.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I’ve learned a few tricks while making this dish multiple times:

I always use fresh parmesan—it melts better and tastes richer.
Roasting sweet potatoes separately ensures they don’t turn mushy.
Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; everything cooks more evenly when spread out.
I like to add a little extra garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
Let it rest for a few minutes after baking; the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe

This bake is versatile and looks fantastic on the plate. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual family meal. For a more elegant presentation, sprinkle extra parmesan on top and add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers taste amazing with a fried egg on top for breakfast or brunch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:

Calories: 320–350 kcal
Protein: 25–28 g
Carbohydrates: 28–30 g
Fat: 12–14 g

This makes for a balanced, protein-packed, veggie-rich meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftover bake in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 7–10 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this bake is my favorite weeknight dinner:

Easy and Quick: Minimal prep and simple steps make it stress-free.
Healthy: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich veggies.
Versatile: Customize with different veggies, proteins, or spices.
Meal Prep Friendly: Makes multiple servings for lunches or dinners.
Delicious: Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory turkey and cheese.

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is wholesome, hearty, and endlessly adaptable. It’s one of those recipes I always turn to when I want something nutritious, filling, and satisfying with minimal fuss.

Ben Carraoli