Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings together wholesome ingredients in a harmonious and flavorful way. This one-pan meal combines tender sweet potatoes, juicy ground turkey, and creamy cheese, creating a satisfying experience for your taste buds. As you embark on this culinary journey, you’ll discover how simple it is to create a dish that leaves you feeling nourished and delighted.
Why We Love This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Recipe
There are numerous reasons why this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake stands out. First, it is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. Second, it’s a nutritious option that features lean protein from ground turkey and the incredible health benefits of sweet potatoes. Packed with vitamins and minerals, sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients about Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
To make a delicious Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can vegetable broth (about 2 cups)
- 1¾ cups whole milk (or half & half)
- 1 cup basmati rice (or long-grain white rice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 teaspoons chopped parsley (or dried flakes)
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake Directions
Creating your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is straightforward and rewarding. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your dish.
Next, peel and cube the sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Arrange them evenly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Drizzle the sweet potatoes with extra virgin olive oil, and then sprinkle in the salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and crushed rosemary. Toss the mixture thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful seasonings.
Once combined, place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. This step allows the sweet potatoes to soften and develop a slight caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness.
While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground turkey. Cook the turkey until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. After a few minutes, incorporate the diced onion into the skillet, sautéing them together until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
After 30 minutes of baking, carefully remove your dish from the oven. Add the browned turkey and onion mixture to the sweet potatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth and whole milk, followed by the uncooked rice. Gently stir to combine all ingredients, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Return the casserole dish to the oven, leaving it uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and continue cooking perfectly alongside the other ingredients.
Afterward, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Bake the dish for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delightful golden crust.
Once done, remove the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld while the dish cools slightly, making it easier to serve. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Serving your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is easy and rewarding. This hearty dish can stand alone as a complete meal, so you don’t need to worry about additional sides. However, if you’re looking to complement it, consider a light green salad or some steamed vegetables, which can enhance the overall dining experience without overshadowing the main dish.
When serving, scoop generous portions onto plates, ensuring each serving contains a balance of sweet potatoes, ground turkey, and cheese. The warm, comforting aroma will surely invite everyone to sit down and enjoy. You can also provide extra chopped parsley on the side for those who like a bit of freshness in their meal. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends, and watch it disappear in no time!
Expert Tips: Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
When making your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, consider these expert tips to elevate your dish further:
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm sweet potatoes that are free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture. You can even experiment with different varieties, such as purple or Japanese sweet potatoes, for unique taste experiences.
- Customize the herbs: Feel free to swap out rosemary for your favorite herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also add brightness if available.
- Add more veggies: Consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or kale to increase the nutrients and variety within the dish. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the dish rest after baking is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency and flavor. It allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to set properly.
How to Store Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
To store any leftovers of your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake, allow it to cool completely at room temperature first. Transfer the dish into airtight containers for optimal freshness. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have larger portions you want to keep for longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. The dish can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Variation of Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
You can easily customize your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Here are some delightful variations to consider:
- Spicy kick: Add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to give your dish a spicy flair. This can elevate the flavor and balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Cheese alternatives: If you prefer a different type of cheese, try using pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- No dairy option: Substitute the whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a non-dairy version. Additionally, you can use nutritional yeast to create a cheesy flavor without actual cheese.
- Quinoa or other grains: Instead of rice, try using quinoa or another grain of your choice, which can add a nutty flavor and extra protein to the dish.
FAQ
What is a Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a savory one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and cheese for a satisfying dish that is both comforting and nutritious.
How long does it take to make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
From preparation to baking, this delicious dish typically takes about 1 hour to complete, making it a feasible option for weeknight dinners.
Can I use different proteins in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor while still enjoying the same comforting experience.
What should I serve with Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
While this dish is complete on its own, consider serving it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables to add variety and balance to your meal.
How do I store leftovers of Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
Ingredients
For the Bake
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed Use firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary, crushed Can be substituted with thyme or oregano.
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 14.5 oz can vegetable broth About 2 cups.
- 1¾ cups whole milk Can use half & half.
- 1 cup basmati rice Can use long-grain white rice.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Pepper jack or mozzarella can be substituted.
- 2 teaspoons chopped parsley Can use dried flakes if fresh is not available.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Arrange them evenly in a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and crushed rosemary. Toss to coat.
Baking the Sweet Potatoes
- Bake the sweet potatoes uncovered for 30 minutes.
Cooking the Turkey
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
- After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Add the turkey and onion mixture, vegetable broth, whole milk, and uncooked rice. Stir to combine.
Final Baking
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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