Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole: A Cozy, Healthy Comfort Dish for Fall and Beyond

Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by Chef Josie

If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome dish that’s both hearty and nutritious, this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. Juicy seasoned ground turkey, tender chunks of sweet potato, onions, and melted cheese come together in one cozy bake that feels like home in every bite. It’s the perfect mix of savory and sweet, with layers of flavor that make you want to keep digging in for more.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, prepping for Thanksgiving, or simply craving a feel-good meal that’s lighter but still deeply satisfying, this casserole checks every box. It’s loaded with protein, full of nutrients, and comforting without being heavy; the kind of dish that reminds you healthy food can still be incredibly delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole

• Wholesome and Satisfying: Lean protein, sweet potatoes, and veggies make it both filling and nourishing.
• Perfect for Holidays or Weeknights: Works as a Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dish or a full meal any night.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares beautifully in advance for busy schedules.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: No need for special ingredients or substitutions.
• Balanced Flavor: Sweet potatoes pair perfectly with savory, herbed turkey.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cozy casserole.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ground Turkey: Lean, flavorful, and a great source of protein. You can substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
Sweet Potatoes: Slightly sweet and soft when baked, they balance the savory turkey beautifully.
Onion and Garlic: Build depth and aroma in the dish.
Olive Oil: Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
Bell Peppers (Optional): Add color and sweetness that complements the turkey.
Cheese: A layer of melted cheddar or mozzarella creates that comforting, gooey finish.
Seasonings: A blend of thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper enhances every bite.
Broth or Milk: Keeps the casserole moist and brings all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Turkey:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the turkey is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
3. Season the Mixture:
   Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. If using, add chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Add the cooked turkey mixture to the baking dish. Add diced sweet potatoes and pour a small amount of chicken broth or milk over the top to keep it moist. Mix lightly to combine.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
   Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve warm.

Notes and Top Tips

• Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole in the morning, refrigerate, and bake just before dinner.
• Make It Lighter: Skip the cheese for a dairy-free version, or use reduced-fat cheese.
• Add More Veggies: Zucchini, spinach, or kale can be added for extra color and nutrition.
• For Extra Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika or cumin gives the turkey a delicious depth.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge and reheats perfectly for lunches throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Serve With: A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.
• Variations:
  • Add Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier dish, stir in cooked grains before baking.
  • Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Vegan Version: Swap turkey for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu and use vegan cheese.
  • Thanksgiving Twist: Add dried cranberries and a sprinkle of sage for festive flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave for quick servings.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good after every bite. Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, prepping for a cozy family dinner, or just need a satisfying weeknight meal, this casserole delivers every time.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! Explore more Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes and Ground Turkey Recipes on the blog for delicious, real-food inspiration.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works beautifully. It’s slightly lighter but still flavorful when seasoned well.

2. Do I need to pre-cook the sweet potatoes?
No, if diced small enough, they’ll cook perfectly in the oven. For faster baking, you can parboil them for 5 minutes before assembling.

3. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use olive oil or plant-based butter and omit or replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative.

4. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones and extend the baking time by about 10 minutes.

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