Lighter Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Turkey and Sweet Potatoes

### Lighter Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Turkey

Shepherd’s pie is a beloved comfort dish that has comforted families for ages. Typically prepared with a hearty meat filling and a topping of creamy mashed potatoes, this meal can be quite rich and calorie-dense. However, by incorporating a few easy swaps, you can prepare a lighter version that maintains all the tasty flavors while being more nutritious. This recipe utilizes ground turkey and sweet potatoes, making it a healthy option suitable for any gathering.

#### Ingredients

**For the Filling:**
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil spray

**For the Sweet Potato Topping:**
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:**
– Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until soft, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
– Incorporate olive oil, milk, salt, and pepper (and nutmeg if desired) into the sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2. **Cook the Filling:**
– In a large skillet, spray with olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is clear.
– Introduce the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
– Mix in the chopped carrots, peas, chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for approximately 10 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit.

3. **Assemble the Pie:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a baking dish, evenly distribute the turkey filling at the bottom. Top it with the sweet potato mash, evening it out with a spatula.
– For extra texture, use a fork to create peaks on the sweet potato topping.

4. **Bake:**
– Place the assembled shepherd’s pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the filling is bubbling.

5. **Serve:**
– Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

#### Nutritional Benefits

– **Ground Turkey:** A lean protein option that has less fat compared to traditional lamb or beef, making it a healthier selection for the filling.
– **Sweet Potatoes:** High in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes offer a healthy alternative to regular mashed potatoes.
– **Vegetables:** Including carrots and peas enhances the fiber and nutrient profile, making this dish more filling and satisfying.

#### Conclusion

This lighter sweet potato shepherd’s pie with ground turkey is a tasty and healthier variation of a cherished classic. It’s ideal for weeknight meals or meal prep, providing comfort without the remorse. Relish the rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that make this dish a favorite among both adults and children alike.