When it comes to getting kids to eat healthy, it can be a challenge. But what if you could make mealtime fun and engaging while also providing your little ones with essential nutrients? Enter: ground turkey! This lean protein source is a great alternative to traditional beef or chicken, and when combined with some creative recipe ideas, can result in meals that are both delicious and nutritious.
In this article, we’ll share 20 kid-friendly ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods like tacos and mac and cheese to healthier options like stir-fries and casseroles, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures that kids will love. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and packed with protein, making them a great addition to any family’s meal routine.
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized turkey meatloaf muffins are perfect for a crowd or as a fun twist on the classic dinner. With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll be enjoying these flavorful morsels in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini muffin liners
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide mixture evenly among muffin liners.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado
This recipe combines the savory flavor of ground turkey with the creamy richness of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning to the turkey and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, topping with diced avocado, and squeezing a sliver of lime juice on top.
5. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender turkey, flavorful rice, and a rich cheesy sauce, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked turkey, peas and carrots, and rice to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheese and milk until smooth.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Pour the turkey-rice mixture into the prepared dish, followed by the cheesy sauce.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and healthy meal with this simple turkey and veggie stir fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp 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. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed veggies, garlic, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the veggies.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey and sweet potatoes with a hint of spices, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potato mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas
This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and spinach with the crispy, cheesy goodness of quesadillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these quesadillas are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced turkey, chopped spinach, and minced garlic. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. In a separate pan or griddle, warm one tortilla over medium heat for about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla, then top with the turkey and spinach mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines tender turkey, crunchy broccoli, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté turkey and broccoli in butter until tender.
4. In a separate pot, combine milk, flour, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
5. Add cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, turkey-broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs
A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these turkey and zucchini bites are perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon 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 and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or as a snack with toothpicks.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This recipe combines the warmth of turkey, sweet corn, and crispy cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, corn kernels, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
5. Spread the cornbread mixture evenly over the turkey mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are a twist on traditional burgers, packed with flavor from tender turkey, crunchy carrots, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Optional: your favorite condiments (e.g., ketchup, mustard)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated carrots, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a patty on each bun, topped with sliced avocado and any desired condiments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Cheddar Pasta Bake
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, cheddar cheese, and pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add turkey, flour, and milk; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and cheddar cheese in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Pea Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe combines tender turkey, fresh peas, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect dish for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in diced turkey, peas, garlic, and thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted turkey and sweet butternut squash with a blend of spices, creating a comforting and nourishing chili perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, featuring the savory flavors of turkey and kale.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup chopped kale
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, kale, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned and the greens are wilted.
4. Combine cooked turkey mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and egg; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-kale mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil; bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella; bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, quinoa, and bell peppers for a nutritious and satisfying meal. The quinoa adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, quinoa, parsley, and cheese.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
This hearty dish combines tender turkey breast with sautéed mushrooms and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles for a comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and onion in butter until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add ground turkey, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve turkey mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines savory turkey with the subtle crunch of cauliflower and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked cauliflower “rice” (see note)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked turkey; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cauliflower “rice” and soy sauce; stir-fry until combined and heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and black beans with the warmth of enchilada sauce, all wrapped up in tender tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in the black beans and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Apple Meatballs
This recipe combines the savory flavor of turkey with the sweetness of apples, creating a unique and delicious twist on classic meatballs. Perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, oats, apple, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and healthy ground turkey recipes that are perfect for kids! From classic comfort foods to international twists, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers or Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins for a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. For a Mexican-inspired meal, try Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado. Or, go classic with Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole. Whatever you choose, these recipes are all kid-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients.
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