Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole is the cozy, weeknight dinner you’ll crave when the weather turns cool and you want something hearty without feeling heavy. It’s that sweet spot between comfort and nutrition—sweet potatoes bring their natural sweetness, while lean ground turkey keeps things light yet filling.
Plus, who can resist a cheesy, golden top that bubbles up like a little edible blanket? This casserole hits all the right notes for busy families: simple prep, minimal cleanup, and leftovers that taste even better the next day. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or trying to please picky eaters, this Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole does the trick. It’s wholesome, family-approved, and feels like a warm hug straight out of the oven.
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What is Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole?
At its heart, Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole is a one-pan wonder that layers nutritious ingredients in a way that tastes indulgent. Think of it as your favorite comfort food—but smarter. Ground turkey gets browned with onions and garlic, creating a flavorful base, while diced sweet potatoes add a tender, slightly sweet contrast. Everything simmers together in a light tomato broth infused with thyme and rosemary, soaking up all those savory flavors before baking to perfection.
The finale? A layer of sharp cheddar cheese melted over the top, making each bite rich and satisfying. The result is a balanced, deeply flavorful casserole that delivers protein, fiber, and vitamins in every spoonful. It’s comfort food that actually loves you back.
Reasons to Try Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
There are so many reasons this Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. First, it’s an entire meal in one dish—no juggling multiple pans or sides. Second, it’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that make you feel good about what’s on your plate. The sweet potatoes bring a dose of vitamin A and fiber, while turkey provides lean protein.
But here’s the kicker: it tastes indulgent without being heavy. The melted cheddar ties everything together, creating that ooey-gooey comfort we all crave. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—you can bake it on Sunday and reheat it throughout the week. If you love easy comfort meals like Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet, this casserole fits right in.
Ingredients Needed to Make Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (½ inch pieces)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions to Make Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
Let’s walk through this Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole Step by Step—so you can go from “what’s for dinner?” to “wow, this is amazing!” in under an hour and a half. Each part is simple and totally doable, even on a busy weeknight.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Like a Pro
Start this Step by Step process by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly later (no one wants undercooked sweet potatoes hiding in the middle!). While your oven warms up, grab a cutting board and peel your sweet potatoes. Dice them into ½-inch cubes—try to keep them about the same size so they cook uniformly.
Next, dice your onion and mince two cloves of garlic. You’ll thank yourself later when that aroma fills your kitchen. This is also a good moment to shred your cheddar cheese if you’re using a block (freshly shredded melts way better than the pre-bagged kind). If you love ingredient prep tips, check out my guide on time-saving kitchen prep hacks that make cooking smoother and faster.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet, add your ground turkey over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart into crumbles. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink and just starting to brown.
Here’s a little secret—don’t drain off every bit of moisture. That tiny bit of rendered fat helps carry flavor through the casserole. If you prefer leaner protein options, you can swap in ground chicken, but make sure it’s not too dry. For more creative turkey recipes, check out Healthy Turkey Chili Recipe.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Build Flavor
Once the turkey is browned, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes until the onion softens and everything smells incredible. This step layers flavor right into the base, setting you up for that crave-worthy casserole depth.
You’ll know it’s ready when the onion looks translucent, and the garlic releases that irresistible aroma. (If you love this combo, my Creamy Mushroom Spinach Soup also builds flavor the same way—it’s a game changer for savory dishes.)
Step 4: Mix in the Sweet Potatoes and Sauce Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add your cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything well so the seasonings coat every piece evenly.
Turn up the heat just a bit to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This part of the Step by Step process is key—it pre-softens the sweet potatoes, so they cook perfectly in the oven later.
If you’re short on time, this pre-simmering trick is similar to the one I use in my Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. It’s a small step that saves you from those dreaded crunchy potatoes later.
Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the entire mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula to make sure every bite gets a mix of turkey, sweet potatoes, and sauce. This is also where you can sneak in extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, or spinach if you’d like—great for adding more color and nutrition.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Make sure to crimp those edges firmly! This traps the steam inside, helping the sweet potatoes become tender while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Bake It to Perfection
Slide your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. During this stage, the ingredients steam gently inside, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Once 30 minutes are up, carefully remove the foil (watch out for hot steam). Sprinkle your freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pop it back in the oven—this time uncovered—for another 10 minutes.
This is where the magic happens. The cheese melts into a golden, bubbly layer of comfort that’ll make your kitchen smell downright irresistible.
Step 7: Cool, Serve, and Enjoy
Remove your Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before digging in. This brief pause lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve neat squares.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter pairing, try my Carrot and Lentil Soup—it’s earthy, comforting, and perfectly balances this hearty casserole.
If you want to dress it up a bit, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You can even mix things up by adding black beans and swapping cheddar for pepper jack for a southwest twist.
Bonus Step: Make It Ahead or Freeze It
This casserole shines in the make-ahead department. You can prepare it earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready. Leftovers? They reheat beautifully—either in the microwave or covered in the oven.
For freezing, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
If you love recipes that freeze well, you’ll also adore my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew—another dish that gets even better after a day or two.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
This Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for freshness or a slice of crusty bread to soak up that savory sauce. If you want something cozy on the side, check out Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup—it’s a perfect complement. Feeling festive? Add a handful of dried cranberries to your salad to match the casserole’s fall vibes. You can also spoon it over cooked brown rice or quinoa for extra heartiness. A glass of iced tea or a light red wine (like Pinot Noir) makes it feel like a weeknight feast without much fuss.
Key Tips for Making Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
- Cut evenly: Keep your sweet potato cubes the same size for even cooking.
- Simmer first: Don’t skip the stovetop simmer—it’s the secret to tender potatoes.
- Seal that foil: A tight seal keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded varieties often have anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste before baking and tweak salt or herbs if needed.
For another cheesy comfort recipe, try Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole next—it’s just as satisfying!
Storage and Reheating Tips for Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole
This casserole is a champion when it comes to leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen, so day two is even better. For reheating, microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. To freeze, cool completely and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly. Pro tip: if you love make-ahead meals, this dish freezes beautifully—just like our Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground chicken works great—just make sure to use one with a bit of fat for flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese shreds or skip the cheese entirely and top with breadcrumbs for crunch.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Try bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Can I make it ahead?
You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole is that rare recipe that checks all the boxes—nutritious, flavorful, comforting, and easy enough for any night of the week. It’s family-friendly, make-ahead friendly, and freezer-friendly (are you sensing a theme?). Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is your go-to comfort food that won’t weigh you down. For another cozy fall recipe, visit Autumn Harvest Beef Stew—it’s another warm hug in a bowl.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
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Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole: A Comforting Weeknight Winner
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty one-dish meal combines seasoned ground turkey with sweet potatoes in a savory tomato-based sauce, finished with melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced fine
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with their juice
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste (about 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper to start)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F while preparing ingredients.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground turkey for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to skillet. Cook 3–5 minutes until onion softens.
4. Stir in cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
5. Increase heat to bring to a simmer. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9. Return casserole to oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Cut sweet potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Don’t skip the stovetop simmering step—this softens the potatoes before baking.
Seal foil tightly to trap steam during baking.
Shred cheese fresh for best melt and flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat individual portions in microwave or full dish in oven at 350°F.
Great served with salad, rice, crusty bread, or topped with sour cream.
Add-ins: black beans, cranberries, corn, bell peppers, or bacon for variation.
