When it comes to quick, simple, and delicious meals, ground turkey is a staple ingredient that can’t be beat. With its mild flavor and high protein content, it’s perfect for whipping up everything from tacos to casseroles. But sometimes, finding inspiration in the kitchen can be tough – especially when you’re short on time.
That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. From spicy stir-fries to hearty meatball soups, these dishes prove that ground turkey is more than just a boring old burger patty. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to use ground turkey in your cooking, with easy-to-follow instructions and mouthwatering photos to inspire you to get cooking!
Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this flavorful and healthy recipe! Ground turkey tacos are a delicious twist on traditional beef or chicken tacos, packed with juicy turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Avocado Salsa Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with Avocado Salsa.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the nutritional benefits of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach, drained
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 bowl, combine turkey, spinach, rice, and cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Turkey Meatball Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food option for a chilly day. With its rich flavors and tender meatballs, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into 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. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until tender.
6. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Add meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
One-Pan Turkey and Veggie Skillet
In this hearty skillet recipe, juicy turkey breast cooks alongside a colorful medley of vegetables in one pan, making it an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey breast and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return turkey breast to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the savory flavors of turkey, quinoa, and vegetables with a crunchy cornflake topping, making it a satisfying and healthy meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cornflakes, crushed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, quinoa, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle crushed cornflakes over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Turkey Lettuce Wraps
These lettuce wraps are a tasty and nutritious twist on traditional turkey sandwiches. With lean turkey breast, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs, you’ll be satisfying your hunger without compromising on health.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked turkey breast, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a plate or surface.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto the center of the lettuce leaf.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
6. Top with another lettuce leaf to create a wrap.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey and sweet potatoes with crispy texture, making it a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Boats
These boats are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, using zucchinis instead for a summer-inspired meal. With the addition of savory turkey and melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the zucchinis and hollow out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Turkey Chili
Get ready for a hearty and comforting bowl of chili that’s packed with flavor! This simple turkey chili recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
This creamy, comforting dish combines the flavors of turkey, mushrooms, and sour cream with a hint of Russian flair. Perfect for a quick 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
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté turkey and mushrooms in a little oil until browned. Add onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let sauce thicken slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Serve turkey and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
Elevate your enchilada game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory goodness of turkey and black beans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these enchiladas are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the turkey, black beans, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up tightly, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Rice Bowl
A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic rice bowl, this recipe combines juicy turkey breast with crunchy vegetables and a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sriracha sauce.
3. Add the sliced turkey breast to the marinade and coat evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Cook the marinated turkey in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, sauté the bell peppers and red onion with a pinch of salt and pepper until tender.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom, followed by sliced turkey breast, and finishing with the sautéed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender turkey breast with crisp broccoli, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the 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 pan.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna
This hearty lasagna recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, roasted eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal.
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 marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add eggplant slices, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until eggplant is tender.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, turkey-eggplant mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, cornbread, and sweet potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine turkey, cornbread mix, milk, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture forms a thick paste.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sweet potato in the bottom. Top with the turkey-cornbread mixture, followed by the remaining sweet potato.
4. Sprinkle cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Turkey and Pasta Bake
A comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This recipe combines juicy turkey, al dente pasta, and creamy sauce for a deliciously easy bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 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. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and 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 mixed vegetables, tomato sauce, and olive oil to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and grated cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Shells
Add a twist to traditional stuffed shells with this recipe, combining ground turkey and sautéed kale with ricotta cheese for a deliciously unique pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups chopped kale (stemmed)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in kale and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-kale mixture, followed by the cheese mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Lentil Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a great way to add some protein and fiber to your meal. With the combination of ground turkey, lentils, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
5. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This skillet combines tender turkey breast, roasted butternut squash, and savory spices in a single, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
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 the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the turkey breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
6. Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the roasted squash, scraping up any browned bits.
9. Return the turkey breast to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over it.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Turkey and Herb Meatloaf
A classic comfort food dish with a twist, this turkey and herb meatloaf is a flavorful and moist alternative to traditional beef-based recipes. With the addition of fresh herbs and lean turkey, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 quick and simple ground turkey recipes that are sure to delight! From tacos with avocado salsa to stuffed peppers, meatball soup, and casserole, these easy-to-make dishes showcase the versatility of ground turkey. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or healthy, there’s a recipe here for every palate. Get cooking with our collection of tasty and convenient ground turkey recipes!
Leave a Reply