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This turkey and egg breakfast casserole is a reliable, hearty start to your day. Combining the lean protein of ground turkey with vibrant sweet potato and fresh spinach makes it fulfilling and balanced. It works well for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches.
I pulled this together on a weekend morning when I wanted something filling but not complicated. It quickly became a staple for Sunday brunch and sometimes weekday meal prep too.
Ingredients
- Coconut oil: adds a gentle tropical aroma and helps prevent sticking. Opt for virgin coconut oil for the best flavor
- Ground turkey: provides a lean protein option that's lighter than sausage and absorbs spices well. Choose fresh, lean turkey for the best texture
- Paprika: lends a warm, smoky note. Pick a vibrant, fresh jar to get the fullest flavor
- Garlic powder: boosts savory depth. If you have fresh garlic, you can mince it but powder melts evenly into the eggs
- Large eggs: bind everything together and add richness. Use the freshest eggs you can find for the best rise and texture
- Sweet potato: adds natural sweetness and holds up well baked. Select firm, unblemished potatoes for even cooking
- Baby spinach: brings a mild, slightly earthy green note plus freshness. Pick bright, crisp leaves without wilting
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously grease a 9 by 9 inch baking dish with coconut oil. This prevents sticking and adds flavor right from the start.
- Layer The Sweet Potato Slices:
- Peel the sweet potato and slice it into even quarter inch rounds. Lay them carefully in the bottom of your baking dish overlapping just a bit if needed. This sweet potato layer forms a tender but firm base that crisps slightly around the edges when baked.
- Cook The Turkey:
- Heat one tablespoon of coconut oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and break it apart with your spatula. Season with the paprika and garlic powder or any extra salt and pepper you like. Allow the turkey to brown nicely for about three to five minutes until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and spread the turkey evenly over the potato slices in the baking dish.
- Prepare The Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl whisk together twelve large eggs with the paprika, garlic powder, and seasoning. Beat until completely smooth and uniform. Pour the egg mixture gently over the spiced turkey layer ensuring it seeps into all the corners.
- Bake And Add Spinach:
- Place the casserole in the oven and let it bake for thirty minutes undisturbed. After that time carefully slide the dish out but keep it in the oven. Sprinkle fresh baby spinach on top and return it inside. Continue baking for an additional five to fifteen minutes until the egg is set in the center and the whole casserole feels firm to the touch. A total baking time of forty to forty-five minutes is ideal.
Paprika is my secret weapon here it brings color and subtle warmth that pulls the whole dish together. I remember one Sunday when my kids first tried this casserole and declared it their favorite breakfast ever. That moment sealed it as a weekly must-have.
Storage tips
Cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating, cover loosely with foil and warm gently in a 350-degree oven to avoid drying out.
Ingredient swaps
Ground chicken works well as a substitute if turkey is unavailable. You can swap sweet potato with butternut squash for a different twist in sweetness and texture. Kale can replace spinach but add it earlier in baking since it takes longer to soften.
Serving ideas
Serve slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado on the side to add creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley brightens the flavors beautifully. Pair with crusty whole grain toast or roasted cherry tomatoes for a well-rounded plate.
This casserole is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful breakfast or brunch option any day of the week.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can substitute sweet potato with regular potatoes or Yukon gold for a milder flavor and similar texture.
- → How do I know when the bake is done?
The casserole is ready when the center feels firm to the touch and the eggs are fully set, usually around 40 to 45 minutes in the oven.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms work well to add extra flavor and nutrients.
- → What’s the best way to layer the ingredients?
Start with a single layer of sweet potato slices at the bottom, followed by cooked ground turkey, then pour beaten, seasoned eggs over the top before baking.
- → When should the spinach be added?
Add fresh baby spinach halfway through the last 15 minutes of cooking to keep it vibrant without overcooking.