Description
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a wholesome, hearty dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. Combining the savory taste of ground turkey, the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, and the freshness of zucchini, it’s all topped with Parmesan for an irresistible, cheesy finish. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, this bake is sure to become a family favorite!
1 lb ground turkey
2 medium sweet potatoes
2 small zucchini
2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp rosemary
5 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and chop sweet potatoes; toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bake for 30 mins.
3. Brown ground turkey in 1 tbsp olive oil with 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp rosemary, salt, and pepper (7-10 mins).
4. Chop zucchini and combine with turkey and sweet potatoes.
5. Bake for 10 mins, add 2 tbsp olive oil, Parmesan, and bake 10 mins more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 420
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into 1/2-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss the cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of the garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of the rosemary, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until fork-tender. While they roast, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 7-10 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but can be easily complemented. For a fresh contrast, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. To make it more substantial, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up the delicious juices. A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds a creamy tang that balances the savory and sweet flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: Roast seasoned sweet potato cubes. Brown ground turkey with herbs. Combine turkey, roasted potatoes, and raw chopped zucchini in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a simple process of preparing components and finishing them together for a unified, flavorful dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken is a direct substitute. For beef, choose a lean (90/10) blend to avoid excess grease. The cooking time will be similar.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components up to a day in advance. Store the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked turkey, and chopped zucchini separately in the fridge. Combine and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the final bake time.
My sweet potatoes aren’t tender after 30 minutes. What should I do?
Potato size and oven variances can affect time. Ensure cubes are uniformly small (1/2-inch). If still firm, continue roasting in 5-minute increments until tender before proceeding.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, it’s not necessary. The skins are edible and add extra fiber. Give them a good scrub if you choose to leave the skins on.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this bake freezes well. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: First, do not overcrowd the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet, as this will steam them instead of roasting, leading to a soggy texture. Second, ensure the ground turkey is thoroughly browned and drained of any excess liquid before combining with other ingredients to prevent a watery final dish. Third, do not skip the initial roasting of the sweet potatoes, as they won’t cook through if added raw with the other ingredients. Finally, resist the urge to over-stir the bake once assembled, as this can break down the vegetables and make the texture mushy.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is the epitome of a satisfying, nutritious, and effortless dinner. It masterfully balances savory, sweet, and cheesy elements in a single pan, minimizing cleanup. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and create a reliably delicious meal that will please the whole family. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes customization, making it a valuable addition to your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight for a comforting and healthy feast.