When it comes to cooking for busy weeknights, it can be challenging to come up with new and exciting meal ideas that are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From tacos to stuffed peppers, meatballs to skillets, and from classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, this collection has something for everyone.
Ground turkey is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, making it a great option for busy home cooks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy ground turkey, crispy taco shells, and a tangy avocado lime crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
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; cook until the mixture is fully browned.
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 ground turkey mixture onto the tortillas.
5. Top with Avocado Lime Crema, diced tomatoes, and any other desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This flavorful recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey, quinoa, and cheese with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. A perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked quinoa, cheese, parsley, and olive oil to the turkey mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Elevate your pasta night with this flavorful twist on classic meatballs! Spicy turkey meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce make for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands 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. Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With the combination of lean turkey, sweet potatoes, and vegetables, this skillet dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender.
5. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir in smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional bolognese sauce with lean turkey and zucchini noodles, making for a healthier and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 zucchinis
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchinis in a spiralizer or with a vegetable peeler into noodle-like strips.
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 onion, garlic, and carrot to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the turkey bolognese over the zucchini noodles and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful and refreshing turkey lettuce wraps, infused with the bold flavors of Asia. Crisp lettuce leaves wrapped around savory turkey, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty sauce make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together turkey, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Form into small patties and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the lettuce wraps by topping each leaf with shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped green onions.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing a turkey patty on each lettuce leaf and drizzle with your favorite sauce (such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or sriracha).
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells! Combining juicy turkey, wilted spinach, and a blend of melted cheeses, these flavorful shells are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Chili with Black Beans and Corn
This recipe combines the comfort of chili with the added nutrition of black beans and sweet corn, making it a perfect dish for a chilly evening. With tender turkey and a rich, flavorful broth, this chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can corn, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki: A flavorful twist on classic meatballs, these Greek-inspired treats are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, 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. Serve hot with Tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
This creamy and flavorful dish is a perfect blend of tender turkey and sautéed mushrooms, served over a bed of egg noodles. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to quickly and easily prepare a delicious Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add turkey, breaking it up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms and garlic to the skillet, cooking until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve turkey and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
BBQ Turkey Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to serve up a flavorful twist on classic sliders! These BBQ turkey sliders topped with creamy coleslaw are perfect for any gathering or backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, olive oil, and BBQ sauce. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 sliders.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a few patties on each bun and topping with coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed potatoes, this recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, crispy kale, and creamy sweet potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chopped kale to the pan and cook until wilted.
5. Mix cooked turkey breast with wilted kale mixture.
6. Split sweet potatoes open and top each with turkey-kale mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Optional: sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
One-Pan Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry
Savor a flavorful and healthy meal with this easy-to-make one-pan stir-fry, packed with tender turkey and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines juicy turkey sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions, all cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or seasonings.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavor of turkey with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. This recipe yields 6-8 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in wild rice blend and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the savory flavor of turkey with the bold taste of black beans, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in black beans and olive oil.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Feta
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers, featuring crumbled feta cheese and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, steamed broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce with fettuccine pasta for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced turkey, broccoli, salt, and pepper. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey-broccoli mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
This casserole is a delicious twist on traditional comfort food, combining the flavors of savory turkey with sweet cornbread and tangy cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, cornbread mix, milk, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheese and corn kernels.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and set.
6. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai-Style Turkey Basil Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this dish combines the savory taste of turkey with the aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 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 onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, turkey, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir in chopped basil. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious ground turkey recipes! From tacos and meatballs to casseroles and stir-fries, there’s something for everyone. Try Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema or Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers for a healthy twist. Or go all out with Spicy Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce or BBQ Turkey Sliders with Coleslaw. Whatever your taste buds desire, these flavorful recipes will be sure to satisfy.
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