If you’re craving a meal that combines comfort and nutrition in a way that’s downright addictive, look no further than this Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. This dish brings together tender, savory ground turkey with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all nestled atop fluffy basmati rice and topped with ooey-gooey cheddar cheese. Every spoonful bursts with layers of flavor and texture, making it the perfect casserole to cozy up with any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this casserole is guaranteed to become a new favorite with its harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients and satisfying heartiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, you only need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together to build incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role: sweet potatoes add creaminess and color; ground turkey brings lean protein and depth; and aromatic herbs and spices tie everything together.
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes to roast until tender and caramelized, adding natural sweetness.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: I love Bertolli Extra Virgin for roasting since it adds a fruity richness that complements the veggies.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure each bite is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory undertone without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 2.5 tsp rosemary: Freshly minced rosemary delivers a fragrant, earthy aroma that elevates the casserole.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and tender protein that keeps the dish hearty but light.
- 1 large yellow onion: Finely diced for sweetness and a hint of crunch.
- 14.5 oz vegetable broth: I prefer Swanson Less Sodium for balanced flavor and moisture.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy base that makes the casserole rich and comforting.
- 1 cup basmati rice: Rinsed until the water runs clear to achieve fluffy, separate grains.
- 2.5 cups cheddar cheese: Shredded from a block for better melting and rich cheesy flavor.
- 2 tsp parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky note to balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
How to Make Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven and toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and minced rosemary. Spread them on a baking sheet, making sure they’re in a single layer for even roasting. Roast until they’re beautifully golden and tender on the inside, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes. This roasting step is crucial because it brings out the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, giving the casserole that signature warm sweetness you can’t resist.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey and Onions
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it begins to brown. Then add the finely diced yellow onion and continue cooking until the onion softens and the turkey is fully cooked through. This combination builds a savory foundation that adds heartiness to the dish while keeping it light and healthy.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, milk, and rinsed basmati rice. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it tightly to let the rice cook gently until fluffy and creamy — about 15-20 minutes. This creamy rice base will soak up all the flavors from the turkey and spices, providing a comforting backdrop for every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Once all components are ready, combine the cooked rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and seasoned ground turkey mixture in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the smoked paprika and freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor and color. Transfer everything into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. This layering ensures you get a crispy, golden crust of melty cheese with every serving.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on the edges. Baking melds all the flavors together and creates that irresistible casserole texture: creamy, cheesy, and a little crispy on top. Let it cool just a bit before serving so the slices hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can take your casserole from comforting to truly special. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even a few extra rosemary leaves enhances the aroma and visual appeal. For a little extra zing, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add a cool and tangy contrast to the warm, savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables brings in a fresh crunch and balances the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette are perfect companions that don’t overpower the Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe but complement it beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this casserole for guests or a family dinner, try baking it in individual ramekins for charming, personalized portions. You could also layer it in a clear glass baking dish to show off the colorful layers of sweet potatoes, turkey, rice, and melted cheese. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add an exciting kick for those who like a bit of spice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway to heat evenly. For larger portions, warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, uncovering in the last 5 minutes to refresh the cheesy topping. This way, every serving tastes almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute white potatoes for sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and creaminess, regular white potatoes will still work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that the flavor profile will be different—less sweet but equally comforting.
Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground beef in this casserole?
Yes! Ground turkey is leaner and lighter than beef, making this casserole a healthier twist on traditional recipes. It still delivers plenty of flavor, especially when cooked with the onions and spices suggested.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely. Swap the ground turkey with a plant-based protein like lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tofu. Increasing the vegetable broth and seasoning will help retain richness and heartiness.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese shredded from a block is ideal because it melts smoothly and adds rich, tangy flavor. However, you could experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness or a sharp gouda for a smoky twist.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is very mild, with just a hint of warmth from the smoked paprika and black pepper. If you like spice, feel free to add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is such a joy to make and share. Its blend of wholesome ingredients and melt-in-your-mouth textures makes for a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a big hug on a plate. I encourage you to give it a try soon — you might find yourself coming back to it again and again as one of your go-to comfort dishes.
Print
Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Hearty Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal combining tender roasted sweet potatoes, flavorful ground turkey, and creamy basmati rice in a cheesy, aromatic sauce. Seasoned with fresh rosemary, smoked paprika, and parsley, this casserole offers a nutritious and delicious blend of protein, veggies, and carbs perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2.5 tsp fresh rosemary, minced
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 tsp parsley
Proteins
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Liquids and Grains
- 14.5 oz vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed until water runs clear
Spices and Oils
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil (Bertolli Extra Virgin recommended for roasting)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, half the salt (3/8 tsp), black pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Cook Ground Turkey and Onions: While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and diced onions. Season with the remaining salt and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring often, until the turkey is fully browned and onions are softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Rice and Liquids: In a large casserole dish, mix the rinsed basmati rice with the cooked turkey and onions. Pour in the vegetable broth and milk, stirring to combine. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and parsley, mixing well.
- Assemble and Bake the Casserole: Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the casserole mixture, folding them gently to preserve their shape. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- The sweet potatoes can be roasted ahead of time to save preparation minutes.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt content.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, replace milk and cheese with non-dairy alternatives.
- Make sure to rinse basmati rice well to prevent mushy texture in the casserole.
