Description
This Healthy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake is a hearty, nutritious meal combining lean ground turkey with roasted sweet potatoes and aromatic spices. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it balances savory and sweet flavors with a touch of freshness from cilantro, delivering a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils and Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the sweet potatoes.
- Roast the sweet potatoes: Toss the peeled and diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the turkey: While the potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey; sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Season the turkey mixture: Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat mixture with warm, smoky flavors.
- Assemble the bake: Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes into a baking dish, evenly spread the seasoned turkey mixture over the top, and bake everything together for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top if desired, and serve the dish warm for a delicious, wholesome meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika.
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro to brighten the dish just before serving.
- Sweet potatoes can be roasted a day ahead to save time on busy nights.
- Ground turkey should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.