This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that combines juicy turkey with creamy sweet potatoes. It’s perfect for family dinners!
Honestly, who knew healthy could taste this good? I love how the sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness to the savory turkey. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat provides great flavor without too much fat. If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re going vegetarian!
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! They add a natural sweetness and creaminess. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you could use butternut squash for a similar texture and taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its rich taste that complements the other flavors well. If you prefer dairy-free, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Onion and Garlic: Both are essential for building flavor. You can use shallots or leeks as alternatives, and garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
How Do You Cook Sweet Potatoes Properly?
Cooking sweet potatoes can be simple, but there are a few important steps for the best results.
- Start by peeling and cutting sweet potatoes into even cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Boiling them until tender usually takes about 12-15 minutes. They should be soft but not mushy.
- Don’t forget to drain them well before adding to the skillet, so your casserole isn’t watery.
This method helps keep their natural sweetness intact and makes them easy to mix with the turkey!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus an additional 35-40 minutes for cooking and baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes until you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot for our casserole!
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Let them cook for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Once done, drain the water and set the sweet potatoes aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant.
4. Brown the Turkey:
Now it’s time to add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, and let it brown for about 7-8 minutes until it’s fully cooked.
5. Mix it All Together:
Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings if you like. Carefully add the cooked sweet potatoes to the turkey mixture and gently fold them together to combine.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the turkey and sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the mixture. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely, fresh touch. Enjoy your cozy and nutritious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may have more fat, so you might want to drain some of it after cooking to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, you can replace them with regular potatoes or butternut squash. Both options will give a slightly different flavor but will still provide a delicious and hearty base.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth while reheating can help keep it moist!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
