Are you tired of the same old ground turkey dishes? Look no further! With its lean protein and versatility, ground turkey is a great addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful and easy-to-make ground turkey recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic comfort foods like casseroles and tacos to healthier options like skillets and soups, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for new dishes, these recipes are sure to please.
So go ahead, spice up your weeknights with some delicious ground turkey creations! In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouth-watering recipes and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make them.
Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Add some excitement to your meal routine with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. Ground turkey and spinach stuffed peppers are a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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 skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, spinach, and cooked rice to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of turkey with the nutty goodness of quinoa. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, quinoa, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet 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. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the bold flavors of ground turkey and spices with the creamy richness of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro
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 onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey mixture into the shells and topping with Avocado Crema and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This one-pot wonder is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional comfort food. With lean turkey, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the turkey and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potatoes, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps with Hoisin Sauce
Elevate your wrap game with this Asian-inspired twist on a classic ground turkey wrap. Crisp lettuce leaves are filled with savory ground turkey, crunchy vegetables, and sweet hoisin sauce for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in hoisin sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble wraps by spooning turkey mixture onto lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of ground turkey with the bold taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki: A refreshing twist on traditional meatballs, these Greek-inspired treats are perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or appetizer. The tangy tzatziki sauce adds a cool and creamy contrast to the savory meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, feta cheese, egg, and olive oil. 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 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Mushroom Bolognese
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting ground turkey and mushroom bolognese, a twist on the classic pasta sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve with cooked pasta and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and healthy meal with this easy-to-make Turkey and Zucchini Stir-Fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive 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 the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the zucchinis and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender-crisp.
4. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of tender turkey, creamy cheese, and nutty rice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, butter, onion, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and cornbread with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Mix in cornbread mix, cheese, onion, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Turkey and Kale Soup
This comforting soup combines the savory flavor of ground turkey with the nutritious goodness of kale, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 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, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey and eggplant with the creaminess of melted mozzarella cheese, creating a delicious twist on traditional lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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. Meanwhile, brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill or broil the eggplant until tender, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Assemble the Parmesan by placing a layer of turkey mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of eggplant slices and then a sprinkle of breadcrumbs. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of turkey mixture on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Turkey Sloppy Joes with Coleslaw
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey and sloppy joes with the crunch and coolness of coleslaw, making it a perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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. Add ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
6. Spoon the turkey mixture onto the buns and top with coleslaw and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet butternut squash, and creamy mashed potatoes for a deliciously cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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 squash, onion, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and heavy cream.
5. Transfer the turkey-squash mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the richness of ground turkey with the nutty taste of lentils, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil 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 onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce
Savor the flavors of this quick and easy stir-fry, packed with tender turkey, crunchy broccoli, and a savory garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A twist on traditional lasagna, these rolls combine tender turkey, wilted spinach, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together turkey, spinach, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at one end.
5. Roll up the noodle tightly but gently, starting from the filled end. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
6. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with ground turkey, roasted cauliflower rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. 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.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Transfer the cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey mixture. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with turkey, cheddar, and herbs. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter and sprinkle with paprika if using (optional).
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground turkey recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got you covered. Try our Turkey and Quinoa Meatballs with Marinara, Spicy Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema, or Healthy Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet for a quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or sweet, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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