Are you tired of the same old turkey recipes for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Look no further! Turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering turkey recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food, international flavors, or quick and easy meals, we’ve got you covered. From juicy roasted turkeys to tender slow-cooked breasts, and even delicious sandwiches and wraps, our collection of turkey recipes is sure to inspire your next meal.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let us help you discover the many ways you can use turkey to make a delicious meal.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
A timeless holiday classic, this roast turkey recipe is elevated by a rich and aromatic herb butter that’s sure to impress your guests. With its tender and juicy meat, crispy skin, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 3-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours
Juicy Brined Turkey with Garlic and Rosemary
Juicy Brined Turkey with Garlic and Rosemary Recipe
This recipe yields a perfectly moist and flavorful turkey with a deliciously aromatic flavor profile, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The brining process ensures the turkey is tender and juicy on the inside, while the garlic and rosemary add a savory and herbaceous note.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large container, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, and water to make the brine.
2. Add garlic and rosemary to the brine and stir until dissolved.
3. Submerge turkey in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for 24 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
6. Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and place on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
7. Roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Brush melted butter over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy
This recipe yields a juicy and flavorful turkey breast with a rich gravy, perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously moist turkey breast and savory gravy to serve alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless turkey breast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
3. Add the garlic, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and butter on top of the onion.
4. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, making sure it’s covered with the liquid mixture.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Strain the juices and serve the gravy alongside the sliced turkey.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Turkey and Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this hearty recipe that combines juicy turkey and savory wild rice with sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in cooked wild rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Turkey Legs with Spicy Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked turkey legs with a bold, spicy rub. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup spicy rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwoods like hickory, apple, or cherry)
Spicy Rub:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the spicy rub ingredients.
3. Remove any excess moisture from the turkey legs with paper towels.
4. Generously apply the spicy rub all over each turkey leg, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, closing the lid to allow the magic to happen.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the savory flavors of turkey and mushrooms with a rich and creamy sauce, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this satisfying dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender and fragrant.
3. Add cooked turkey and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy turkey-mushroom sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting and savory dish perfect for a chilly evening, this Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust is a delightful twist on the classic recipe. The combination of tender turkey, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry crust will satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2 pounds cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Place turkey mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Roll out remaining dough to fit top of pie crust.
7. Place crust on top, pressing edges to seal.
8. Brush with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Turkey Chili with Beans
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy turkey chili recipe that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the comfort of beans and a kick of heat. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a convenient meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black 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, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Turkey Burgers with Avocado
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the richness of turkey with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey breast patties
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey patties.
4. Grill turkey patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble burgers by spreading mashed avocado on the bottom bun, followed by a turkey patty, and finishing with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herbed Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta night with these flavorful turkey meatballs infused with fresh herbs and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, basil, and egg. 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. While meatballs are baking, heat crushed tomatoes and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of savory turkey and sweet cranberries. This unexpected combination will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of sliced deli turkey breast
– 1/4 cup of fresh cranberries, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese, turkey, and cranberries.
5. Place the second slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
One-Pan Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic stir-fry, featuring tender turkey and a colorful medley of vegetables all cooked in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon 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 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots to the pan. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir-fry for another minute, until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
This recipe puts a delicious spin on the classic shepherd’s pie by using turkey instead of beef. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the turkey mixture.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Turkey Sliders
Elevate your game day or casual gathering with these mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Turkey Sliders. Tender, juicy turkey is slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce and served on soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ mixture over it.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the turkey with two forks and stir to combine with the BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble the sliders by placing the pulled turkey onto the buns, followed by coleslaw or pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna: A Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the flavors of tender turkey, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese to create a unique take on traditional lasagna. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
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 until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
8. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of turkey mixture, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of cheese mixture. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Maple-Glazed Turkey Meatloaf
Elevate your turkey meatloaf game with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors! This Maple-Glazed Turkey Meatloaf recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring a rich maple glaze that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together maple syrup and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with the maple glaze.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Leftover Turkey and Dumpling Soup
Transform leftover turkey into a comforting and satisfying soup with this simple recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for using up holiday leftovers or making a new meal from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced turkey, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, flour, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Prepare the dumpling mix according to package instructions.
4. Add the cooked dumplings to the soup pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Tetrazzini with Parmesan Crust
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner or holiday gathering with this creamy, flavorful Turkey Tetrazzini dish topped with a crispy Parmesan crust. A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine turkey, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, followed by melted butter and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines crispy turkey with roasted sweet potatoes, savory onions, and a hint of spice, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add cooked turkey to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Once sweet potatoes are roasted, add them to the skillet with the turkey mixture. Stir in smoked paprika.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cajun Turkey Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Cajun country with the convenience of turkey sausage and Arborio rice. A perfect blend of spices, meats, and vegetables, this jambalaya is a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Cajun-style turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot; set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to pot; stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to gobble up some delicious turkey dishes with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic roast turkey to smoky BBQ pulled turkey sliders, there’s something for every occasion. Impress your family and friends with creamy pasta, hearty stews, and savory casseroles. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this collection of turkey recipes has got you covered.
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