Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake: The Ultimate Healthy Comfort Food

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, hearty, and healthy all at once? This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake hits every mark. Packed with protein, bursting with cozy flavors, and naturally gluten-free, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll put on repeat. Whether you’re trying to meal prep, feed a hungry family, or just crave a warming dish that doesn’t weigh you down, this casserole-style bake is a winner. You’ll love how well it reheats too—ideal for make-ahead meals.

Check out our creamy roasted garlic potato soup if you’re looking to pair this bake with something smooth and satisfying.

Let’s explore why this dish stands out and how to perfect it at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

A healthy twist on a classic comfort dish

This ground turkey sweet potato bake brings together two of the best ingredients for health and flavor: lean protein and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes. Unlike heavy casseroles that rely on cream-based sauces, this dish uses milk and broth for a lighter, yet still creamy, consistency. The use of rosemary and garlic adds a deep aromatic flavor without relying on excess salt or fat. Plus, you’re sneaking in a load of vitamins thanks to the sweet potatoes’ beta-carotene content.

Perfect for meal prep and weeknight dinners

This is the kind of one-dish meal that saves both time and dishes. Bake it once, eat twice—because leftovers are just as good, if not better. The mix of ground turkey, rice, and roasted sweet potatoes creates a balanced meal that stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. You can portion it out for the week ahead or make it your go-to emergency dinner for those “I don’t feel like cooking” nights.

Don’t miss our chicken and stuffing casserole—another incredible comfort meal that stores and reheats like a dream.

Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly

Kids love anything with cheese—and this bake doesn’t disappoint. A generous sprinkle of cheddar on top makes this dish both visually appealing and deliciously gooey. Want to hide some veggies? Stir in a handful of finely chopped spinach or shredded zucchini. And when it comes to freezing, this dish performs exceptionally well. Freeze single portions in airtight containers and pop them in the microwave or oven for quick lunches and dinners.

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Fresh and pantry staples you already have

No need for fancy ingredients here. You’ll find most items already stocked in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• 1 lb. lean ground turkey
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 can (14.5 oz) vegetable broth
• 1¾ cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh or dried parsley (for garnish)

Optional swaps: coconut milk (for dairy-free), white onion, chicken broth, or long-grain rice.

Looking for inspiration? Try our fluffy sweet potato pancakes—a fun twist to start your day with sweet potatoes!

Ingredient swaps and substitutions (vegan, dairy-free, etc.)

To make it dairy-free, use canned coconut milk (not boxed) and a plant-based cheese. Want to keep it meatless? Substitute the turkey with lentils or cooked black beans. The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate paleo, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets with simple swaps.

Choosing the best cheese, turkey, and sweet potatoes

For maximum flavor, use sharp cheddar. It melts beautifully and gives the casserole its signature cheesy top. When it comes to turkey, go for lean ground turkey (93/7). Avoid the extra-lean versions unless you’re mixing with a fattier cut, or it may turn out dry. For sweet potatoes, orange or white varieties work best due to their creamy texture and mild sweetness once roasted.

Discover great ideas like this in our oven-baked sweet potato fries if you’re craving something crispy and satisfying on the side.

Step-By-Step Instructions For A Foolproof Bake

Roasting sweet potatoes to bring out flavor

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cube peeled sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary in a 9×13” baking dish. Roast for 30 minutes until lightly caramelized and fork-tender. This step deepens their flavor and softens their texture—don’t skip it!

Cooking and seasoning ground turkey perfectly

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook your ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Add diced onions and cook for 3–5 minutes until they’re translucent. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Drain any excess fat to prevent sogginess in your final bake.

Looking for more warm, cozy dishes? Check out our roasted sweet potato soup recipe, perfect for chilly nights.

Layering the bake for optimal texture and taste

Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, add the cooked turkey and onion mix, uncooked rice, milk, and vegetable broth directly to the baking dish. Stir until everything is combined. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for 10–15 more minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving—it helps the casserole set and makes scooping much easier.

Expert Tips To Elevate Your Ground Turkey Casserole

Spice and herb combinations that pair well

While rosemary is the standout herb in this dish, you can easily tailor the seasoning to suit your taste. Add a pinch of thyme or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist, or sprinkle in smoked paprika for a little depth and warmth. Want some kick? Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper will spice things up. Always taste as you go—ground turkey benefits from bold seasoning.

If you enjoy herby sides, don’t miss our rosemary garlic mashed potatoes, a fantastic pairing for any casserole-style meal.

How to prevent dry rice or overcooked turkey

Dry or undercooked rice is a common issue in one-dish bakes. Be sure to use enough liquid—this recipe balances broth and milk for creamy results. Also, avoid overcooking the turkey before baking. Browning it until just done helps it stay juicy once it hits the oven. Finally, cover the casserole with foil if the top is browning too quickly before the rice is fully cooked.

Best baking dishes and prep tools to use

Use a deep 9×13” ceramic or glass baking dish for even cooking. Non-stick spray or a light brushing of oil on the dish will prevent sticking. A digital meat thermometer isn’t necessary but handy if you’re unsure about doneness. A silicone spatula also helps with even mixing and smooth serving.

Variations To Try With Sweet Potato Turkey Casserole

Make it low-carb, paleo, or vegetarian

For a low-carb version, skip the rice and stir in riced cauliflower instead. To go paleo, omit the cheese and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of dairy. Vegetarians can swap the turkey with canned lentils or chopped mushrooms for a savory, meaty texture without the meat.

Looking for another cozy vegetarian dinner? Discover our white bean mushroom stew recipe—wholesome, hearty, and deeply flavorful.

Swap proteins or grains (quinoa, cauliflower rice)

While this bake is perfect with ground turkey, don’t be afraid to switch things up. Ground chicken, beef, or even crumbled tempeh can be used in equal measure. As for the grain, quinoa works well but needs a bit less liquid—reduce the broth slightly and keep an eye on texture as it bakes.

Check out our creamy wild rice chicken soup recipe for more inspiration on integrating grains into hearty meals.

Add-ins like beans, greens, or crunchy toppings

Boost the nutritional content by mixing in chopped spinach, kale, or even shredded zucchini. Want extra protein? Stir in a cup of canned black beans or white beans before baking. And for texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a golden, crunchy topping.

Don’t miss our balsamic glazed brussels sprouts—a crisp, flavorful side that balances this rich, creamy casserole perfectly.

What To Serve With Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

Easy sides: bread, salads, roasted veggies

This dish is a full meal on its own, but if you’re entertaining or just want a bigger spread, pair it with:

• Crunchy garlic bread or cornbread
• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus

You can also serve this bake with a light soup starter like creamy mushroom soup or a chilled cucumber yogurt salad for contrast.

Sauces and dips to complement the casserole

If you want to amp up the flavor even more, serve with a dollop of:

• Garlic aioli or sour cream
• Spicy sriracha mayo
• Greek yogurt blended with lemon juice and herbs

These sauces provide a bright, tangy contrast that balances the richness of the casserole.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Tips

How to refrigerate leftovers safely

Once cooled, store the casserole in an airtight container or tightly wrap the baking dish in plastic. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid sogginess.

Best practices for freezing and reheating

Freeze single portions for quick lunches or freeze the whole casserole for easy dinners. Wrap tightly with plastic and then foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals or bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

Meal prep containers and storage hacks

Use divided glass meal prep containers to portion and store for the week. If you freeze with cheese on top, cover loosely with foil when reheating in the oven to avoid burning the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts On Making Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy, budget-friendly dinner that ticks all the boxes—nutritious, delicious, and easy to prepare—this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is it. With a combination of roasted sweet potatoes, seasoned turkey, and gooey melted cheese, this dish delivers the kind of comfort food you’ll want again and again.

It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep, family gatherings, or even freezer stocking. Use the tips, swaps, and serving ideas above to make it truly your own.

Looking for inspiration? Try our chicken cobbler prefect recipe for another fun, comforting twist on baked meals.

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