Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with new and exciting meal ideas, especially on those chaotic weeknights when time seems to fly by? Look no further! In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes that are perfect for meal prep and will keep your taste buds singing. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these flavorful meals are sure to become new favorites in your household.
From stuffed peppers to taco bowls, meatballs to stir-fries, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are designed with meal prep in mind, making them perfect for busy families or individuals who want to enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 ground turkey meal prep recipes, sharing tips and tricks for preparation, cooking, and serving. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’re sure to find inspiration in these tasty and easy-to-make meals.
Ground Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground turkey with nutritious quinoa and spices for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large 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 paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the 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 chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until the mixture is fully cooked.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa until well combined with the turkey mixture.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
9. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Taco Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines juicy turkey, crunchy vegetables, and creamy cilantro lime rice for a delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until tender.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
6. Assemble bowls by placing turkey mixture over rice, followed by black beans and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines juicy ground turkey with roasted sweet potatoes and a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle chili flakes and cumin over the mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with these savory turkey meatballs, served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture 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 the meatballs are cooking, prepare tzatziki sauce by combining grated cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic. Season to taste.
6. Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Brown Rice
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. This recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of vegetables and the comfort of brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the bell peppers and broccoli to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the ground turkey mixture over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring tender turkey, creamy black beans, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cups cooked white rice (optional)
– Salsa, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. In a separate pan, sauté red bell pepper and frozen corn kernels in olive oil until tender.
5. Combine cooked turkey and black beans; warm through.
6. Assemble burrito bowls by placing rice (if using), turkey-black bean mixture, and roasted veggies onto individual plates.
7. Top with desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A twist on traditional lasagna, these turkey and spinach rolls are a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
5. Assemble the rolls by spreading a layer of turkey mixture on each noodle, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, and finishing with another layer of turkey.
6. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines juicy ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms and fresh lettuce for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped mushrooms and Worcestershire sauce; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble the wraps by spooning the turkey mixture onto the lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Chili with Butternut Squash
This recipe combines the warm comfort of traditional chili with the sweetness and nutritional benefits of butternut squash, making it a perfect fall meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, squash, chili powder, and cumin; cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beans. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey and Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the classic combination of turkey and pasta, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 8 oz orzo pasta, cooked according to package instructions
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, diced turkey, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for orzo)
Turkey and Zucchini Noodle Casserole
A deliciously healthy twist on a classic casserole, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey, zucchini, and noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 8 oz zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook zoodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked zucchini noodles with the turkey mixture.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines ground turkey with cauliflower rice, a nutritious and low-carb alternative to traditional rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the cauliflower florets, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and sesame oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked turkey back into the skillet and stir to combine with the cauliflower mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sloppy Joes with Whole Wheat Buns
A twist on the classic sloppy joe recipe, this version uses ground turkey for a leaner and flavorful alternative. Serve on whole wheat buns for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread, toasted
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, pickle slices
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
3. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the turkey is cooked through.
4. Split the whole wheat buns in half and toast.
5. Spoon the turkey sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
A hearty and satisfying side dish or main course that combines the flavors of roasted turkey, steamed broccoli, melted cheese, and fluffy baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub potatoes clean and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add diced turkey and steamed broccoli; stir until heated through.
4. When potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Divide the turkey-broccoli mixture among the potatoes, followed by sprinkling shredded cheese on top.
6. Return stuffed potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Cups
Add an exciting twist to your turkey sandwich game with these flavorful lettuce cups! Crunchy, fresh lettuce leaves wrapped around savory turkey, crunchy vegetables, and creamy sauce make for a refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Form into small patties and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Assemble lettuce cups by placing a patty on each leaf, topping with mixed vegetables and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with peanut sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan Bake
A delicious twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, this recipe adds the savory flavor of turkey to create a satisfying and flavorful casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of turkey mixture, then a layer of eggplant slices. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines ground turkey and spinach with Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and nutritious main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Top stuffed shells with marinara sauce and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the nutty flavor of quinoa and the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked quinoa, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Wrap with Whole Grain Tortilla
Get ready to wrap up a delicious and healthy meal! This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies all wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast, cooked and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– 1 whole grain tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the diced turkey, sliced avocado, mixed greens, and sliced red bell pepper horizontally along the center of the tortilla.
3. Drizzle hummus over the filling.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assembly only)
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A delicious and healthy twist on a classic breakfast dish, this Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash is perfect for a quick and easy meal or brunch. With the sweetness of sweet potatoes paired with the savory flavor of ground turkey, this recipe is sure to please.
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 cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground turkey meal prep recipes! From hearty stews and skillet dinners, to stuffed peppers and lasagna rolls, there’s something for everyone. Try Ground Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers or Turkey Taco Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice for a fiesta in your mouth. For a healthier option, opt for Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Brown Rice. And don’t forget the Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal.
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