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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 4-5 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Alternatively, you can steam them on the stove or roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
- While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is fully cooked and browned.
- Season the turkey with cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the spices evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender, transfer them to a large casserole dish.
- Add the cooked ground turkey mixture on top of the sweet potatoes, followed by the peas (or mixed vegetables, if using). Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, then stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, covering the entire casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve the casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Top with a Crunch: For a bit of texture, you can top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before baking.
- Make it Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the turkey mixture for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make the casserole dairy-free.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Why This Casserole is a Perfect Meal
- Nutritious and Balanced: With a combination of lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and vegetables, this casserole provides a balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, making it a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily in the microwave, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and vegetables to suit your family’s tastes. It’s easy to make this dish your own!
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting, wholesome, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of lean turkey, sweet potatoes, and vegetables, it’s not only healthy but also delicious and filling. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe. Try it today and experience the delightful flavors in every bite!
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