Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake: A Cozy Weeknight Dinner
As the leaves begin to change and the air gets crisp, I find myself longing for dishes that wrap me in warmth and comfort. Enter my Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake — a wonderfully cozy recipe that is not only packed with flavor but also filled with nostalgia. The sweet, creamy texture of tender sweet potatoes combined with the savory goodness of ground turkey makes this dish a staple in my home when the weather cools down. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, easy to prepare, and even easier to devour! This easy weeknight dinner is one you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Whip up this delightful dish in under an hour, making it perfect for rushed evenings.
- Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors, this sweet potato bake appeals to both kids and adults alike — a true crowd-pleaser!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from ground turkey and rich vitamins from sweet potatoes and peppers, this meal offers a wholesome experience.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish, or you can enjoy it as a side. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
To make this cozy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together! Follow these simple steps to create a deliciously cozy bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until the turkey is browned and beautifully cooked through.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
- Transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and starting to caramelize.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot, allowing the savory aromas to fill your kitchen!
Delicious Variations to Try
While this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is delicious as is, here are some creative twists you can try to mix things up:
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a creamy, indulgent finish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a zesty experience that wakes up your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in your favorite herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even some Italian seasoning to give the dish a delightful aroma.
- Greens Galore: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before baking for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Here are my trusty tips to ensure your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake comes out perfectly every time:
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to replace ground turkey with ground chicken or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Slicing Sweet Potatoes: Use a sharp knife to dice the sweet potatoes evenly; this ensures they will cook at the same rate.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, perfect for a quick reheat.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake packs a nutritious punch! Here’s what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 450mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prepping the dish a day in advance works wonderfully, allowing the flavors to merry beautifully.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken, and you can even mix in other veggies you love.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days for a quick and easy meal prep.
How long does it last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, leftovers should stay good for about four days.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it — a cozy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake that warms the heart and soul. Rich in flavor and nutrition, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet comforting. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved part of your meal rotation, just as it has for my family. Save this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until the turkey is browned and beautifully cooked through.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
- Transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and starting to caramelize.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
