Getting your daily dose of protein doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or convenience. Ground turkey, a leaner alternative to traditional beef or pork, can be used in a wide variety of dishes that are both healthy and delicious. In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy and simple ground turkey recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
From classic comfort foods like meatballs and chili, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and stir-fries, there’s something for everyone in our collection of ground turkey recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will show you the versatility and flavor that ground turkey has to offer.
Stay tuned for more on this delicious and nutritious ingredient, as we count down our top 20 simple ground turkey recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey with the crunch of colorful vegetables!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cups mixed veggies (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for the pan
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the mixed veggies, soy sauce, and honey. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this easy and delicious ground turkey taco recipe. With a mix of savory spices, crunchy toppings, and juicy turkey, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the turkey mixture and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with turkey, cheese, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your pasta game with these moist and flavorful turkey meatballs, perfectly paired with a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat.
7. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or as a sub sandwich.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Turkey and Rice
This recipe is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With only one pot to clean, it’s also a convenient option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of turkey, creating a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines juicy turkey breast with roasted sweet potatoes and savory spices, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add turkey breast and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add sweet potato cubes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Return turkey breast to the skillet and stir to combine with sweet potatoes.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Turkey Chili
This hearty and nutritious chili recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day, packed with protein-rich turkey, fiber-filled beans, and vitamins from the vegetables. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Turkey Lettuce Wraps
These Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional sandwiches. With only a few ingredients, you can create a tasty and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup diced avocado
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cooked turkey breast and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Lay out the lettuce leaves on a flat surface.
3. Divide the turkey mixture among the lettuce leaves, placing it in the center of each leaf.
4. Top with diced avocado and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Casserole
A hearty and nutritious casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, quinoa, and vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened. Add the bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the turkey, quinoa, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add the cooked vegetables, then top with the turkey-quinoa mixture.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with savory turkey and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch option that’s also healthy and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine turkey, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Top each boat with shredded cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked turkey, spinach, onion, garlic, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Spread a layer of the turkey mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of turkey mixture on top.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, featuring tender turkey instead of lamb. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
A twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey and black beans with creamy cheese and spicy enchilada sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the black beans, onion, cilantro, and enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Top the enchiladas with shredded cheese and green chilies.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Meatloaf with Glaze
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful and moist turkey meatloaf smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup-based glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, cheese, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup and 1 tbsp brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush glaze all over the top. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian-inspired dish gets a twist with the addition of tender turkey breast and savory mushrooms. This hearty recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey breast in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove turkey; add butter, onion, and garlic to skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in beef broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return turkey to skillet; stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines juicy turkey with roasted cauliflower “rice” and a hint of savory spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add turkey and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add cauliflower “rice” to the pan with garlic and stir to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve turkey on top of roasted cauliflower rice. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of turkey, broccoli, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced turkey and cook until heated through.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the turkey and broccoli mixture; whisk in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and turkey-broccoli mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the Alfredo sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan: A Creative Twist on a Classic Italian Dish!
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey and eggplant with melted mozzarella cheese, creating a delicious and unique twist on traditional Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Dip each eggplant slice in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs. Fry the eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of marinara sauce. Arrange half of the turkey mixture on top, followed by half of the fried eggplant slices. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and oregano.
6. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, cornbread, and creamy sauce – perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine turkey, cornbread mix, cheese, scallions, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is lightly toasted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour the mixture over the turkey-cornbread mixture in the skillet.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Salad
A fresh and flavorful salad that combines the richness of turkey with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, avocado, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these easy and simple ground turkey recipes! From classic dishes like tacos and chili to innovative twists on meatballs and stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. With a focus on healthy eating, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Try Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry, Ground Turkey Tacos, or One-Pot Turkey and Rice for a quick and satisfying meal. Or go all out with Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers or Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to hit the spot!
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