Ah, the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake! This dish holds a special place in my heart and belly. Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of sweet potatoes mingling with the savory smell of ground turkey, garlic, and spices wafting through the house. The first time I made this bake was during a chilly fall evening, trying to find a comforting meal without the guilt. My family loved it so much that it’s now on our regular rotation, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your home, too!
What’s great about this recipe is that it strikes the perfect balance between being hearty and healthy. It’s easy to throw together on a busy weeknight and always delivers that home-cooked goodness we all crave. Plus, the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable, and who doesn’t love a dish with a cheesy topping? Let’s dive right into the details.
What’s in Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
– Ground Turkey: A lean protein that forms the hearty base of this dish. I usually opt for 93% lean to keep it flavorful without too much grease.
– Sweet Potatoes: These sweet, orange gems are not only delish but also loaded with vitamins. I love how they add a naturally sweet flavor that pairs excellently with savory spices.
– Diced Tomatoes: A can of juicy diced tomatoes adds moisture and acidity. Sometimes, I prefer fire-roasted for an extra depth of flavor!
– Shredded Cheese: Whether you go for sharp cheddar or a melty mozzarella, cheese is the crowning glory of this bake. Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand!
– Onion: A small diced onion caramelizes beautifully in the skillet, adding an aromatic base that’s hard to resist.
– Garlic: Ah, garlic—the fragrant superhero in the culinary world! Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates any dish.
– Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a subtle smokiness to the bake. If you haven’t tried smoked paprika yet, consider this your sign!
– Ground Cumin: A warm, earthy spice that perfectly complements the other flavors. It’s a must-have in any savory dish.
– Chili Powder: Adding it is optional, but if you like a little heat, it brings a nice kick.
– Olive Oil: Good ol’ olive oil is perfect for sautéing the veggies while keeping it heart-healthy.
– Fresh Cilantro: For garnish! It adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that can’t be beaten.
Is Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with nutrients and benefits.
Ground Turkey: Leaner than beef, ground turkey is a fantastic source of protein that supports muscle health and aids in weight management.
Sweet Potatoes: An excellent source of vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are high in fiber and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for gut health and immune function.
Diced Tomatoes: They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Cheese: While cheese adds yummy flavor, remember to use it in moderation if you’re watching your caloric intake. It does provide calcium and protein, after all!
Of course, you can customize this recipe to make it even healthier! Swap out some or all of the cheese for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, or try adding in some leafy greens like spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
This recipe serves about 4 people—perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the meat with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Add the diced sweet potatoes and the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
7. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
8. Once the sweet potatoes are tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the mixture.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
And voila! You’ve got a hearty, delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Perfect Plate Pairings
If you want to switch things up, you can serve this bake with a side salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the meal. Leftovers (if any) taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully. I often find myself making a double batch just to enjoy those delightful leftovers!
So, there you have it! I’m so excited for you to try this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake at home. I can already envision the smiles as you all dig in. Don’t forget to let me know how your bake turns out or if you customize it in any fun ways! Happy cooking!
