There is something magical about the smell of roasting potatoes on a crisp autumn evening. You want a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This turkey sweet potato bake is exactly what your family needs right now. It is hearty, healthy, and incredibly simple to pull together.
This dish delivers a massive boost of protein to keep everyone full. It makes your busy weeknights feel much smoother and more relaxed. You can finally stop worrying about what is for dinner tonight. This recipe is timely, delicious, and beginner-friendly for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy families who need nutrition fast. It combines lean protein with energy-giving sweet potatoes in one dish. You will love how it makes your meal prep feel effortless and organized. It is also very budget-friendly since it uses simple pantry staples.
Perfect for those busy fall weeknights when time is very short. Your kids will actually enjoy eating their greens hidden in the cheese. It is a complete meal that requires very little cleanup afterward. You get to spend more time relaxing and less time scrubbing pans.
Simple Method
Making this bake is a very straightforward and rewarding process. You roast the potatoes while the turkey browns on the stove. Everything eventually meets in one large baking dish for the finish. Even if you have never made a casserole, you can do this. It is a stress-free way to get a hot meal on the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses fresh seasonal produce that is at its absolute best right now.
- 2 lbs lean ground turkey (93/7)
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius).
- Toss cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- Roast sweet potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized.
- While potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking and breaking it into crumbles until fully browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook for 2 minutes.
- Combine the turkey mixture and roasted sweet potatoes in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Stir in the fresh baby spinach until it begins to wilt from the residual heat.
- Top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and return to the oven for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before portioning into meal prep containers.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this bake warm while the cheese is still perfectly gooey. It looks beautiful when topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top. Pack it into containers for easy weekday lunches that stay fresh.
Storage & Reheating
This bake stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Use airtight glass containers to keep the flavors fresh and bright. You can also freeze individual portions for those extra busy nights. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes for best results. Microwave heating for two minutes also works perfectly for lunch. It is a great make-ahead option for your Sunday routine.
Tips for Best Results
- Cut your sweet potatoes into equal sizes for even roasting.
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika because it adds a wonderful depth.
- Use a large rimmed baking sheet to prevent potatoes from sliding.
- Sauté the onions until they are very soft and sweet.
- Add the spinach at the very end to keep it vibrant.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bigger flavor punch.
- Let the dish rest so the juices can settle properly.
- Brown the turkey well to get those tasty crispy bits.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the ground turkey for lean ground chicken or beef.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green texture.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Try pepper jack cheese if you want a little more heat.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen cubes to save even more time. Just be sure to roast them until they are fully crisp. They might need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
It can be if you simply omit the cheddar cheese. The potatoes and turkey provide plenty of flavor on their own. You could also use a vegan cheese substitute.
I hope this cozy bake brings a little extra peace to your busy week. It is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground turkey (93/7)
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius).
- Toss cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- Roast sweet potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized.
- While potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking and breaking it into crumbles until fully browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook for 2 minutes.
- Combine the turkey mixture and roasted sweet potatoes in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Stir in the fresh baby spinach until it begins to wilt from the residual heat.
- Top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and return to the oven for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before portioning into meal prep containers.
