If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole. It’s one of those cozy, crowd-pleasing bakes that brings everyone to the table, with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, the warmth of aromatic spices, hearty ground turkey, and a cheesy, golden finish. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family, this casserole ticks every box: it’s healthy, full of flavor, and just happens to be gluten-free!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this dish is how accessible these ingredients are—each one shines in its own way, lending essential taste, color, or heartiness. You’ll find that even the humble pantry staples make all the difference in this vibrant, nourishing casserole.
- Ground turkey: Lean, protein-packed, and savory; the perfect foundation for a lighter casserole.
- Olive oil: Provides richness and helps soften both the vegetables and turkey while adding robust flavor.
- Onion: Sweet and aromatic, it forms the flavor backbone for every good casserole.
- Garlic: Adds irresistible savoriness and depth—freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable here!
- Red bell pepper: Brings a pop of color and sweetness, balancing the earthiness of the turkey and sweet potato.
- Sweet potatoes: The star of any “Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole”—creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with vitamins.
- Dried thyme: Warms up the casserole with herby notes that marry beautifully with poultry and sweet potato.
- Paprika: Adds mellow heat and enticing color for that tantalizing finish.
- Ground cumin: Lends a subtle smokiness and earthiness that really deepens the overall flavor.
- Salt: Essential for making every ingredient shine.
- Black pepper: A bit of kick to round out the flavors—always freshly ground if possible.
- Baby spinach: Offers a burst of color and a nutritional boost as it wilts into the warm casserole.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional): Melty, bubbling cheese on top is the ultimate finishing touch—choose your favorite!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle just before serving brightens the whole dish and adds a fresh, herbaceous lift.
How to Make Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking. In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the diced sweet potatoes. Let them cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re just tender enough to pierce with a fork. Set them aside in a bowl—you want them to finish softening in the oven, not on the stovetop.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, swirl in the second tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 3–4 minutes. They should soften and release their sweetness, laying a delicious foundation. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just one minute, until your kitchen fills with its wow-worthy aroma.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Turkey
Now it’s time for the star protein! Add the ground turkey to your skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Let it cook until it’s thoroughly browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to season well with thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper—the spices transform the turkey and infuse the whole dish with layers of flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Wilt the Greens
Add your sautéed sweet potatoes back to the pan with the turkey and veggies. Stir everything together so the seasonings and sweet potato cubes are evenly distributed. Next, sprinkle in the chopped baby spinach. It’ll wilt into the hot mixture in just a minute or two, bringing color and extra nourishment.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For the ultimate finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top if you’d like it bubbling and golden. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes. You’ll know your Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is ready when it’s hot throughout and the cheese is perfectly melted. Don’t forget a final flourish of fresh parsley just before serving!
How to Serve Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
Garnishes
I always recommend a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for that vibrant, garden-fresh effect. For a little added zip, you can also try a dusting of smoked paprika or a scatter of green onions. If you went light on the spice in the casserole itself, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon right on top is a delicious finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Since Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is already quite hearty, you can keep sides simple: a crisp, citrusy green salad or some steamed green beans make wonderful companions. For a more comforting meal, serve alongside a hunk of crusty gluten-free bread to soak up those flavorful juices.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just looking to impress, portion the casserole into mini ramekins for adorable single-serve presentations. For a brunch twist, top leftovers with a soft poached egg. I even love reheating a scoop and wrapping it up in a whole wheat tortilla for a satisfying breakfast burrito—it’s a seriously tasty way to reinvent the dish!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole stands up so well to next-day eating! Just cool it to room temperature and store in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to four days, making it perfect for weekday lunches or speedy dinners.
Freezing
If you want to meal prep in advance, you’re in luck. Simply let the casserole cool completely, then wrap the whole baking dish with plastic wrap and foil or transfer to individual freezer-safe containers. It freezes beautifully for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for 2–3 minutes (stir halfway through) or warm the entire casserole, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until heated throughout—about 20 minutes. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry, and finish with fresh garnishes to revive the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a perfect substitute and delivers a similar lean profile. Ground beef also works; just be sure to drain any excess fat and adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I make the casserole dairy-free?
Simply leave out the cheese, or swap in your favorite plant-based shredded cheese alternative. The casserole is still moist and flavorful thanks to the juicy veggies and turkey.
Is Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a real hero for meal prepping. The flavors deepen as it sits, and it makes fantastic leftovers for grab-and-go lunches or ready-made dinners throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Try tossing in chopped zucchini, broccoli florets, or even some peas—just be mindful to pre-cook firmer veggies as needed so the bake time stays the same.
How spicy is the casserole as written?
This Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is more about fragrant spices than heat, but if you love spice, a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika added with the turkey will bring a gentle kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort and nutrition in every bite, you simply have to give this Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole a try. It’s a weeknight wonder that never disappoints, and I just know it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with each hearty, flavor-packed forkful!
Print
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: Ground Turkey Casserole: 20 minutes, Spicy Chicken Livers: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: Ground Turkey Casserole: 30 minutes, Spicy Chicken Livers: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Ground Turkey Casserole: 50 minutes, Spicy Chicken Livers: 25 minutes
- Yield: Ground Turkey Casserole: 6 servings, Spicy Chicken Livers: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking (Ground Turkey Casserole), Stovetop (Spicy Chicken Livers)
- Cuisine: American (Ground Turkey Casserole), Southern-Inspired (Spicy Chicken Livers)
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and hearty recipes for Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole and Spicy Chicken Livers with Mushrooms.
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach (chopped)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
Spicy Chicken Livers with Mushrooms:
- 1 pound chicken livers (trimmed and cleaned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the sweet potatoes for about 8–10 minutes, until slightly tender. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the onion and red bell pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked through. Stir in thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Return the sweet potatoes to the pan and stir to combine. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese if using. Bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
- Spicy Chicken Livers with Mushrooms: Rinse and pat dry the chicken livers, then cut into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Add the onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and sauté for another 5 minutes until mushrooms are golden. Push vegetables to the side and add chicken livers in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned but still slightly pink in the center. Stir everything together, then add red pepper flakes, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until livers are fully cooked but not overdone. Finish with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- This casserole is perfect for meal prep and reheats well.
- You can substitute kale for spinach or use ground chicken instead of turkey.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Chicken livers cook quickly—avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Serve over rice, toast, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Add more chili flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: Ground Turkey Casserole: 320, Spicy Chicken Livers: 270
- Sugar: Ground Turkey Casserole: 6 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 2 g
- Sodium: Ground Turkey Casserole: 380 mg, Spicy Chicken Livers: 370 mg
- Fat: Ground Turkey Casserole: 15 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: Ground Turkey Casserole: 4 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Ground Turkey Casserole: 10 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Ground Turkey Casserole: 22 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 6 g
- Fiber: Ground Turkey Casserole: 4 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 1 g
- Protein: Ground Turkey Casserole: 25 g, Spicy Chicken Livers: 22 g
- Cholesterol: Ground Turkey Casserole: 85 mg, Spicy Chicken Livers: 400 mg
