This Healthy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bake is a simple, filling dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It combines lean ground turkey with tender, roasted sweet potatoes, all baked together with a blend of herbs and spices that give it great flavor without being heavy. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and a soft, comforting texture that pairs so well with the savory turkey.
I love making this bake because it’s both healthy and satisfying, and it’s easy to put together even when I’m busy. I usually cook the turkey with some onions and garlic before mixing it with the sweet potatoes, and sometimes I add a little cheese on top just to make it extra cozy. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate but keeps things light and nourishing.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is with a simple side salad or steamed greens to add some freshness. Leftovers reheat well too, making it a handy option for lunch the next day. It’s a meal that everyone in the family seems to appreciate, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend lean ground turkey for a healthy protein source. If you prefer, ground chicken or lean beef can work too. Just watch the fat content to keep it light.
Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and creaminess when baked. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, try butternut squash or regular potatoes, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
Spinach or Kale: Both add nutrients and a fresh green pop. I like spinach for its tenderness; kale holds up better when baked longer. Feel free to use other leafy greens you have on hand.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely and isn’t overpowering. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheese or skip it altogether. Nutritional yeast can be a tasty dairy-free substitute.
How Do You Cook Sweet Potatoes Perfectly for This Bake?
The key is to start cooking the sweet potatoes in the pan first. This softens them and develops flavor. Here’s what I do:
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced sweet potatoes, stir occasionally, and cook 8-10 minutes until they start to brown and get tender.
- Remove and set aside before cooking other ingredients.
This step helps them cook evenly in the oven without staying hard or too crispy. It also boosts their natural sweetness and ensures a soft texture in the final bake.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish – perfect for cooking on stove and finishing in the oven without extra dishes.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – to chop sweet potatoes and veggies safely and quickly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the turkey and sweet potatoes without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons – help you add spices precisely for balanced flavors every time.
- Mixing bowl (optional) – handy if you prefer mixing ingredients before adding to the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different protein with similar texture.
- Add black beans or cooked quinoa for extra fiber and make it more filling.
- Stir in chopped zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies and moisture.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy, bold flavor twist.
Healthy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
Spices & Extras:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or reduced-fat cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and stovetop cooking, plus around 10-12 minutes baking time in the oven. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick and healthy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Sweet Potatoes:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring gently until they start to soften and slightly brown. Remove sweet potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook Onion, Garlic, and Turkey:
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Then add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon while cooking. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the turkey is browned and fully cooked.
3. Spice and Combine Ingredients:
Mix in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the turkey evenly. Return the sweet potatoes to the skillet with chopped spinach or kale and diced bell pepper (if using). Stir everything together nicely.
4. Bake and Garnish:
Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until cheese melts and bubbles. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm with lime wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground turkey in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Prepare This Bake in Advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the turkey and sweet potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, sprinkle the cheese on top and bake until melted and hot.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Bake?
This dish pairs nicely with a fresh side salad, steamed greens, or even some brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating really brightens the flavors!
