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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole

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This easy, healthy fall casserole combines savory ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and colorful veggies in a cozy, nutrient-packed dinner. It’s hearty without being heavy, perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
  • 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, divided
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with oil or cooking spray.
  2. Peel and dice sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place in a medium saucepan, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Drain sweet potatoes and return to pot. Add 1/4 cup chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Mash until mostly smooth with some texture. Set aside.
  4. While potatoes cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess moisture if needed.
  5. Add diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini (if using) to the turkey. Cook for 4-5 minutes until onion is translucent and veggies are softened.
  6. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried thyme, cumin, black pepper, sea salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Add drained diced tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and mixture is well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Spread turkey and veggie mixture evenly in prepared casserole dish. Dollop mashed sweet potatoes on top and gently spread to cover the filling.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top (if using).
  10. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and top is slightly golden. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
  11. Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese entirely. You can substitute ground chicken or lean ground beef for turkey, or use lentils/tempeh for a vegetarian option. Add extra veggies like mushrooms, peas, or kale as desired. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for cleaner slices. Leftovers keep well and flavors deepen after a day.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, sweet potato, casserole, healthy, fall, dinner, gluten-free, meal prep, easy, family

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/ground-turkey-sweet-potato-casserole-easy-healthy-fall-dinner-recipe/