Introduction

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a delicious and nutritious meal prep favorite. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese, it balances hearty flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or batch cooking for the week ahead.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The bottom layer consists of bright orange roasted butternut squash cubes with slightly charred edges. On top, a layer of browned sausage crumbles is spread evenly, some pieces showing crispy golden brown bits. Melted cheese covers the dish lightly, with a slightly bubbly and browned texture in certain areas. Fresh green herbs, including small leaves and a sprig of rosemary, are sprinkled over the top, adding pops of color and freshness. The dish is set on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
2 medium bell peppers (red and yellow), diced
1 medium onion (white or yellow), diced
2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Transfer the cooked meat to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until edges soften, but do not fully cook. Transfer the vegetables to the bowl with the turkey.
Step 3: Add the raw sweet potato cubes and fresh spinach to the bowl. Toss everything together until the spinach is distributed evenly and the potatoes are coated in the spices and juices.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Pour the ¼ cup of chicken broth evenly over the top.
Step 5: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This traps moisture to soften the sweet potatoes.
Step 6: Remove the foil carefully. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, slightly browned, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked paprika for a smoky, BBQ-like depth, or substitute with regular paprika for a milder flavor.
Swap baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green twist.
Try mixing in black beans or corn for added texture and nutrients.
For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. The dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white oval baking dish filled with a baked casserole showing three main layers: the bottom layer is soft, bright orange chunks of roasted sweet potatoes, the middle layer is browned cooked ground sausage mixed throughout, and the top layer is melted golden cheese with scattered fresh green herbs for garnish. The cheese has a slightly crispy texture in some spots, and the herbs add a fresh contrast to the warm tones of the dish. The baking dish sits on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground chicken or lean beef can be substituted, but cooking times and fat content may vary. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor balance.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer extra fiber and a more rustic feel. Make sure to wash and scrub them thoroughly.