Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a hearty, wholesome dish that brings together lean turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and savory spices baked into a cozy, nutritious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this casserole is rich in flavor, family-friendly, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or toppings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground turkeysweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)onion (chopped)garlic cloves (minced)olive oilspinach or kale (optional)add-ins like bell peppers or mushrooms (optional)shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)paprikacuminthyme or Italian seasoningssalt and peppereggs (for binding, optional if skipping cheese)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.

Add garlic and ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until turkey is browned and fully cooked.

Add chopped spinach or other vegetables and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat.

In a pot of boiling water, cook sweet potato cubes until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine turkey mixture with sweet potatoes. Add beaten eggs if using and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and top with remaining cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef or chicken instead of turkey.

Add black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex twist.

Top with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Swap cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit entirely.

Spice it up with jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use mashed sweet potatoes?

Yes, just spread them over the turkey mixture like a shepherd’s pie.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just confirm your cheese and seasonings.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, it’s optional. The eggs will still help bind the casserole.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to bake time if cold.

What veggies can I add?

Peppers, zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms work well.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Cover loosely with foil during baking if needed. Don’t overcook.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, thaw and drain well before using.

What cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar or mozzarella adds creaminess and flavor.

Can I cook everything in one pan?

Yes, use an oven-safe skillet to go from stovetop to oven.

Is it kid-friendly?

Very—mild flavors and familiar ingredients make it great for kids.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. With its comforting flavors and flexible ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that fits right into your weekly rotation. Serve it fresh from the oven and enjoy a hearty bite that nourishes and satisfies every time.