There’s something incredibly satisfying about gathering around the dinner table when the day has finally wound down, and this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole checks every box on the comfort-food checklist. With its vibrant orange cubes of tender sweet potato mingling with savory, spice-kissed turkey, every spoonful feels like a warm hug in casserole form. The gentle hint of cinnamon and cumin sparks a cozy, slightly exotic note that makes me grin like a kid on the first day of fall. It’s the kind of dish that coaxed me out of a cooking slump—when I needed a quick, nutritious, yet utterly delicious meal to share with friends, this casserole swooped in like a culinary superhero.
Speaking of friends, I remember the first time I brought this dish to a casual potluck. It arrived at the buffet table, cheeks rosy from baking, studded with melty cheddar on top (because, of course, cheese makes everything better). More than a few folks asked for seconds—one friend even admitted she’d base her entire week’s meal plan around it! That memory still makes me laugh. This casserole is a celebration of wholesome ingredients dancing together: lean protein from ground turkey, nutrient-packed sweet potatoes, greens, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for dairy-free eaters. Trust me, once you take your first cheesy, spiced bite, you’ll understand why this dish has become a staple in my kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Before you roll up your sleeves, let’s meet the all-star lineup that transforms a handful of simple pantry staples into a mouthwatering casserole. Each ingredient plays its own part: some bring texture, others add savory depth, and a few sneak in subtle spice notes that keep this one-pan wonder from being predictable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground turkey
This lean protein base soaks up all the spices and chicken broth, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful without tipping the calorie scale.
- Sweet potatoes
Diced for easy cooking, these sweet gems add a soft, creamy texture and a natural sweetness that balances the savory turkey and warm spices.
- Olive oil
Used to sauté veggies and sweet potatoes, it provides a silky coating that helps everything brown evenly and keeps the casserole from sticking.
- Onion
Chopped onion brings a subtle sweetness and crunch in the early sauté stage, laying a fragrant foundation for the rest of the ingredients.
- Garlic
Two minced cloves deliver that irresistible garlic punch, enhancing the overall aroma and adding a savory kick.
- Spinach
Fresh greens wilt down into the turkey mixture, boosting nutrient content and adding a pop of color and mild earthiness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
If you choose to top your casserole with cheese, it melts into gooey goodness, creating a golden crust that makes every bite extra indulgent.
- Ground cumin
A warm, earthy spice that pairs wonderfully with turkey, infusing the dish with a hint of smoky depth.
- Paprika
Adds a mild peppery flavor and rich color, helping to tie the spices together into one harmonious blend.
- Ground cinnamon
Just a whisper of cinnamon teases out the sweetness of the potatoes and complements the savory spices beautifully.
- Ground black pepper
Finely ground to provide a gentle heat that rounds out the flavor profile without overpowering it.
- Salt
Enhances every flavor in the dish, from the sweet potato’s natural sugars to the turkey’s mild richness.
- Chicken broth
A splash of savory liquid that brings moisture and depth, preventing the filling from drying out and helping the flavors meld.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Finely chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of fresh herbal brightness and a pretty finishing touch.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
Let’s dive into the cooking process—this casserole comes together in stages but stays wonderfully simple. From stovetop to oven, each step builds layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, just follow along and you’ll have a bubbly, satisfying meal in under an hour.
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish lightly with oil or nonstick spray and set it aside so it’s ready when you need it.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until they begin to soften and develop golden edges. Remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
4. Add the ground turkey to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula and cook, stirring frequently, for 6–8 minutes or until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.
5. Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt over the turkey. Stir vigorously to coat the meat evenly and let the spices cook for an additional minute.
6. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, just until the greens have wilted into the turkey mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken broth, then simmer for 2–3 minutes. The liquid should reduce slightly, making the filling rich and cohesive.
8. Return the cooked sweet potatoes to the pan and mix everything until well combined and evenly distributed.
9. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared casserole dish. If using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top for a cheesy blanket.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese has melted into a perfect golden crust.
11. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a bright, herbal note.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
When it’s time to dig in, you’ll find that this casserole is a versatile MVP. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides and garnishes, so you can customize each meal to your mood or the occasion. Whether you’re dishing it out for a cozy family night or serving guests at a weekend brunch, these ideas will elevate every serving and make your casserole truly shine.
- Serve with a crisp side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness and add a fresh crunch.
- Top each portion with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of extra parsley for creaminess and a pop of color.
- Offer a basket of warm crusty bread or garlic knots on the side, perfect for scooping up any leftover juices and making sure none of that savory broth goes to waste.
- Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in lemon and olive oil to bring an additional layer of texture and a burst of bright, vegetal flavor.
HOW TO STORE GROUND TURKEY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is not only a weeknight superstar but also a fantastic make-ahead dish. If you’re looking to maximize both flavor and convenience, follow these storage tips to ensure every reheated portion tastes just as delightful as the first bake.
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist, then heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish (without cheese on top) and wrap it snugly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, then proceed with the cheese topping and bake as directed.
- Portioning: Divide the cooled casserole into individual servings and store them in single-serve containers. This makes lunchtime or a quick dinner a breeze—just pop one in the microwave for a few minutes.
- Reheating: To revive that just-baked texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, uncovered, until it’s hot and bubbling. If you prefer the microwave, cover the container loosely and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful adventure through the layers of Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole! From the first moment you brown the turkey and spices in the pan to the satisfying crackle of golden cheese emerging from the oven, this dish is proof that wholesome ingredients can deliver comfort in every bite. We’ve walked through the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking techniques, and even the best ways to store and reheat your casserole so it tastes fresh long after the first serving. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for busy weekdays, or bringing a dish to share at a gathering, this recipe adapts beautifully—adding a dash of warmth to every occasion.
Feel free to print this article and keep it in your recipe binder for later reference, and don’t forget to scroll down for the FAQ section that addresses common questions like substitutions and troubleshooting tips. I’d love to hear how your casserole turns out, so please leave a comment if you try the recipe, have any questions, or want to share your own tasty tweaks and feedback. Your kitchen stories inspire me just as much as I hope this dish inspires you—happy cooking!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Description
This cozy casserole layers seasoned ground turkey and tender sweet potatoes with a hint of cumin and cinnamon. Baked until bubbly with optional cheddar, it’s a comforting, nutritious meal perfect for any night.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch casserole dish and set aside.
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In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. Remove the sweet potatoes from the pan and set them aside.
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In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Add the ground turkey to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it's fully browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
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Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt over the turkey. Stir well to combine and let the spices cook for another minute.
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Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts down.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
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Add the cooked sweet potatoes back into the pan and mix everything together.
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Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. If you're using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly on top of the casserole.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted (if using).
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Note
- This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines lean protein, veggies, and a touch of spice. You can make it ahead of time by assembling the casserole and storing it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. You can also experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added variety. The casserole is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.
