This comforting ground turkey sweet potato casserole is a cozy dish you’ll love. It’s packed with lean turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices, making it both tasty and filling!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that creamy sweet potato topping—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! For an easy dinner, I just pop it in the oven and let it bake while I relax.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is a lean protein source. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground chicken or lean ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled tempeh, plus some extra spices to amp up the flavor.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide sweetness and creaminess. In case you don’t have them, butternut squash or regular potatoes work well as alternatives. Just note that the texture might vary slightly.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider a dairy-free cheese like cashew cream or nutritional yeast mixed with almond milk to give a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Milk: Cow’s milk adds creaminess to the sweet potato mash. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk is a great substitute.
How Do I Make the Perfect Sweet Potato Mash?
Making smooth sweet potato mash is easy and super satisfying! Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfectly creamy:
- After boiling the sweet potatoes, drain them well to get rid of excess water. Too much moisture will lead to runny mash.
- Add in your butter or olive oil immediately while they’re still warm. This helps it blend better.
- Use a potato masher for a chunkier texture or a mixer for a super smooth vibe. I usually start with a masher and then use the mixer for a creamy finish.
With these tips, your sweet potato layer will be a hit, adding flavor and comfort to the casserole!
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sweet Potato Mash:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), plus extra for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake altogether. It’s a quick process with simple steps, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray, so the casserole doesn’t stick later on.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then toss them into a large pot. Fill the pot with water so that it covers the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil and let them cook for about 15 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, drain the potatoes, making sure to remove as much water as possible.
3. Sauté the Turkey and Vegetables:
While your sweet potatoes are cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 7-10 minutes or until the turkey is browned and the onions have softened and turned translucent.
4. Season the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let it cook for another minute so all the spices mingle well. Once done, take it off the heat and set aside.
5. Make the Sweet Potato Mash:
In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes using a potato masher or mixer. Add the milk and butter (or olive oil) and mix until nice and creamy. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, which will melt into the mash and enhance the flavor.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
In your prepared casserole dish, spread the cooked ground turkey mixture evenly across the bottom. Then, top it with the creamy sweet potato mash, spreading it evenly to cover all the turkey. Finally, sprinkle some extra cheese on top for that delicious melted crust.
7. Bake & Serve:
Slide your casserole into the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and slightly crispy. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty dish!
This savory and sweet casserole is a delightful way to combine nourishing ingredients into one satisfying meal. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the fat content; you may want to drain excess grease after browning the meat for a lighter dish.
Can I Prep This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato used.
