Shepherd's pie is a classic comfort food, and this version with ground turkey and sweet potatoes offers a nutritious twist.
Using sweet potatoes for the topping adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color to this satisfying casserole.
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner that feels hearty but includes wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ground turkey keeps the dish lean while remaining flavorful and moist.
- Sweet potato mash provides a creamy, slightly sweet topping that pairs well with savory turkey.
- Baking the pie allows the flavors to meld and creates a delicious golden crust on top.
- Simple, straightforward ingredients make this recipe accessible for home cooks.
Creamy Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie
This turkey shepherd's pie features ground turkey and creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a nutritious, comforting family meal baked to a golden finish.
- Prep time
- 20 minutes
- Cook time
- 30 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- One 9×9-inch casserole (6 servings)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup milk (60 ml)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Topping Place the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes into a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey Filling Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes until liquid reduces slightly. Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and Bake Transfer the turkey mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Spoon mashed sweet potatoes over the turkey mixture and spread to cover. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. The internal temperature of the turkey filling should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the turkey mixture.
- Use a fork to create peaks in the mashed sweet potatoes before baking to enhance browning on top.
- Leftover shepherd's pie can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness on top.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat leftovers until steaming hot, 165°F (74°C) internal temperature before serving.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular russet potatoes for the sweet potato topping. Prepare them the same way by boiling, mashing, and seasoning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check the labels on packaged ingredients like chicken broth and tomato paste to ensure they do not contain gluten.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the turkey filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, then add the mashed potatoes and bake when ready to serve.
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