Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Turkey

This sweet potato shepherd’s pie layers seasoned ground turkey and mixed vegetables beneath a mashed sweet potato topping. Bake it until the filling is hot and the top begins to turn golden.

Why Make Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

It is a complete, make-ahead-friendly casserole with lean turkey, vegetables, and a naturally sweet potato topping. Prepare the filling and mash separately, then assemble and bake.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup milk

How to Make Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, then mash with the butter and milk.
5. Spread the mash evenly over the turkey mixture.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot throughout and lightly golden on top. For food safety, ground turkey should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest briefly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with a green salad or steamed greens. Chopped parsley makes an optional fresh garnish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat until hot throughout. To freeze, wrap the assembled, cooled pie well and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips

• Cut the sweet potatoes into similar-sized cubes so they cook evenly.
• Drain the potatoes well before mashing to avoid a loose topping.
• Taste and season the turkey filling before assembling.
• Spread the mash to the edges to help seal in the filling.

Variations

Ground beef or lamb can replace the turkey, though cooking and food-safety temperatures vary by meat. For a meatless version, use cooked lentils or a plant-based ground alternative and verify its package directions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use white potatoes?
Yes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes can replace the sweet potatoes.

Can I assemble this ahead?
Yes. Cover and refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 24 hours, then bake until hot throughout.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

For another related recipe, try sweet potato and lentil shepherd’s pie. For additional guidance, see USDA guidance for safely handling ground poultry.

Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

Print Recipe

A healthy twist on a classic shepherd’s pie made with lean turkey and creamy sweet potatoes.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in mixed vegetables, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Boil sweet potatoes in a pot until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until creamy.
4. Spread the turkey and vegetable mixture in a baking dish. Top with the sweet potato mash evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden.
6. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a cheesier version, sprinkle grated cheese on top before baking.