Are you looking for a protein-packed meal that’s not only delicious but also good for your waistline? Look no further! Ground turkey is a lean and nutritious alternative to traditional beef or pork, making it an excellent choice for those on a weight loss journey. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 flavorful ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From tacos to meatballs, and from casseroles to stir-fries, these healthy ground turkey recipes offer a variety of options for any meal or occasion. And the best part? They’re all packed with nutrients and flavor, so you can indulge without feeling guilty. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, maintain your current weight, or simply eat healthier, these recipes are a great place to start.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this culinary journey and explore the many delicious possibilities of ground turkey!
Ground Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, quinoa, and roasted peppers to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and few ingredients, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and olive oil.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied until the next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook 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 mixture and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of avocado crema (mash the avocado with lime juice and season with salt and pepper).
6. Top with your desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lean Ground Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Elevate your dinner routine with this healthier twist on traditional meatball and pasta dish. This recipe combines the flavor of ground turkey with the nutrition of zucchini noodles, all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini and cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and garlic powder.
6. Serve meatballs with zucchini noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed potatoes, this recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, wilted spinach, and creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add diced turkey and spinach; cook until heated through.
5. Split the cooked sweet potatoes open and fill with the turkey mixture.
6. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Low-Carb Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
A healthier twist on traditional wraps, these low-carb lettuce wraps are packed with flavor and nutrition. Made with lean ground turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, this recipe is a great option for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add crumbled bacon, chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the turkey mixture onto lettuce leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet: A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat cooking spray or oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the cauliflower florets, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Black Bean Chili
This hearty, one-pot chili is a nutritious and flavorful twist on the classic recipe. With lean turkey and fiber-rich black beans, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Ground Turkey and Veggie Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring ground turkey and an array of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, onion, carrot, bell pepper, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this savory and nutritious recipe that combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the richness of turkey and kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey-kale mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Top each mushroom with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Ground Turkey with Roasted Vegetables
This hearty one-pan dish combines flavorful ground turkey with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, all cooked to perfection in just one pot. A perfect weeknight dinner solution that’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the turkey is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Lentil Soup
Ground Turkey and Lentil Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines the lean protein of ground turkey with the fiber-rich goodness of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Boost your meal with this nutritious and flavorful stir-fry recipe, packed with lean turkey, crunchy broccoli, and savory sauces. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a quick and satisfying dish perfect for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This flavorful hash combines the savory goodness of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option. Serve with eggs, toast, or as a side dish for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with turkey mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with ground turkey, quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cumin and chili powder; season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast mixed vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Assemble bowls by dividing cooked quinoa between bowls, topping with ground turkey mixture, roasted vegetables, and a dollop of tahini sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Egg White Muffins
These protein-packed muffins are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack on-the-go. With the added boost of spinach, you’ll be energized and focused to take on your day.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked turkey breast
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, oats, turkey breast, spinach, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Drizzle olive oil over each muffin.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until set and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Low-Fat Ground Turkey Bolognese with Spaghetti Squash
This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic pasta dish, replacing traditional spaghetti with nutritious spaghetti squash and using lean ground turkey for a protein-packed bolognese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup low-sodium tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti squash by baking for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve the bolognese sauce over cooked spaghetti squash.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Turkey and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender turkey with creamy chickpeas, aromatic spices, and a hint of coconut milk. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey, onions, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Ground turkey and cabbage come together to create a savory and healthy dish that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Brown Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole is a nutritious twist on traditional comfort food, packed with lean turkey, fiber-rich brown rice, and essential vitamins from frozen vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked rice, frozen vegetables, onion, garlic, olive oil, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Asparagus Sheet Pan Dinner
Quickly prepare a delicious and healthy dinner with this easy-to-make recipe. With minimal cleanup and prep, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the turkey breast in the center of the pan, leaving space around it.
4. Arrange the asparagus spears around the turkey, leaving some space between each spear.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey and asparagus, sprinkling garlic and thyme evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weight loss journey with these 20 delicious ground turkey recipes! From classic tacos to innovative stir-fries, these flavorful and healthy dishes will keep you full and satisfied. Discover how ground turkey can be a lean protein powerhouse in dishes like Quinoa Stuffed Peppers, Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, and Lean Ground Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles. With options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this collection has something for everyone looking to make healthy eating a breeze.
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