Are you tired of cooking the same old dishes for dinner every weeknight? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of delicious skillets. From spicy and savory to creamy and comforting, these 20 flavorful ground turkey skillet recipes are sure to spice up your meal routine.
Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick and easy dinner option, these one-pot wonders are perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, they’re all made with ground turkey, making them a great source of lean protein. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Let’s dive into the first 10 recipes below and get cooking!
Spicy Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy ground turkey with sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes, all in one delicious skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeño pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Arrange the sweet potato cubes on top of the turkey mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
This comforting skillet dish combines ground turkey, rice, and melted cheese for a satisfying weeknight meal that’s ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and rice to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the peas and carrots. Top with shredded cheese and cook until melted and bubbly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Black Bean Taco Skillet
This hearty skillet dinner combines the flavors of ground turkey, black beans, and taco seasoning with a burst of fresh cilantro and lime juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and water.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Stir in cooked black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Ground Turkey and Quinoa Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the nuttiness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the bell pepper, onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey and vegetables.
- Top with feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Noodle Skillet
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional ground turkey dishes. With the addition of zucchini noodles, you’ll get a boost of vitamins and fiber in just one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the spiralized zucchini, chicken broth, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Ground Turkey and Mushroom Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of ground turkey, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this comforting meal without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add the onion and mushrooms; cook until the vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Pepper Skillet
Transform traditional stuffed peppers into a skillet-friendly dish that’s just as flavorful and easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Arrange the sliced bell peppers on top of the turkey mixture.
7. Cover the skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Ground Turkey and Broccoli Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious skillet dish that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of broccoli, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, honey, and ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cornbread Skillet Casserole
A hearty, one-pan wonder that combines the flavors of ground turkey, cornbread, and sweet corn for a satisfying dinner or brunch. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix and milk. Pour the mixture over the turkey mixture in the skillet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground turkey with cauliflower “rice” and a blend of spices, resulting in a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers or onions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in cauliflower “rice” and cook until it starts to soften (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped bell peppers or onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan Skillet
This hearty skillet dinner combines the flavors of Italy with a twist on traditional turkey burgers. Ground turkey, eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Add eggplant slices to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until tender.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and oregano.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ground Turkey and Pesto Pasta Skillet
Ground Turkey and Pesto Pasta Skillet Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the creaminess of pesto pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Add ground turkey; cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in pesto sauce. Combine cooked pasta and turkey mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines ground turkey, roasted butternut squash, and a hint of cumin for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook 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 cubed butternut squash to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey mixture. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
6. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Green Bean Almondine Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of green beans, almonds, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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. Add the green beans, garlic, and almonds to the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Ground Turkey and Avocado Lime Skillet
This flavorful skillet recipe combines lean ground turkey with creamy avocado and a burst of citrus from lime juice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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 ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and stir in the diced avocado and lime juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Turkey and Chickpea Curry Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the creaminess of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, curry powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines the savory flavor of ground turkey with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Turkey and Tomato Basil Skillet
A flavorful and healthy skillet meal that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the freshness of tomato, basil, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (adds 50 calories per serving)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes release their juices and the flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top and cook until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Lentil Stew Skillet
This one-pot wonder is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With ground turkey, lentils, and aromatic spices, this stew skillet is a delicious and satisfying option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
6. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Pineapple Teriyaki Skillet
This sweet and savory skillet combines juicy ground turkey with caramelized pineapple and a tangy teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground turkey; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add pineapple, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground turkey skillet recipes! From spicy sweet potato and cheesy rice, to Mediterranean quinoa and Asian-inspired broccoli, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, stuffed peppers, or casserole, these quick and easy skillets are perfect for busy nights. With a range of flavors and ingredients, you’ll never get bored with this versatile protein. Discover new favorites and add some excitement to your weeknight routine.
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