31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes (2024)

Home Dinner 31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes

By Heather

Jun 05, 2023

Jump to Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Ditch the heavy proteins and embrace the lean goodness of ground turkey! From juicy burgers to flavorful tacos, these ground turkey recipes are packed with flavor while still keeping your meals light and nutritious. Discover the delicious versatility of ground turkey for healthy weeknight meals, special occasions, and everything in between!

31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes (2)

Looking for a lean and flavorful alternative to ground beef or ground pork? You’re going to fall in love with some of our favorite ground turkey recipes!

From juicy turkey burgers to hearty meatballs and flavorful tacos, these recipes are perfect for meal-prepping or feeding the whole family. Or try something new like a turkey quinoa skillet, turkey potato curry, and more!

Discover how this lean and healthy ingredient can lighten your favorite dishes but still leave you feeling satisfied. Once you take a peek at this collection, you’ll want to cook with ground turkey every day of the week!

1. Ground Turkey Casserole

Whip up a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite! Packed with delicious and wholesome ingredients, this one-pot meal is super easy to throw together on busy weeknights.

2. Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs that are still juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection thanks to the air fryer! Grab a package of ground turkey and a few simple ingredients to make this recipe. Serve as a tasty appetizer, with your favorite sauce and pasta, and more.

3. Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes

You’re going to love this lighter twist on a classic favorite! Lean ground turkey simmered in a tangy and savory sauce is oh-so-delicious, and this 5-ingredient meal can be ready in less than 30 minutes.

4. Lettuce Wraps

Looking for something light and refreshing that still delivers big on flavor? Lean ground turkey with taco seasoning is wrapped in crisp lettuce for a delicious lunch or dinner. It’s great for meal-prep too!

5. Turkey Meatloaf

Made with lean ground turkey, this turkey meatloaf is a healthier version of the classic comfort food. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients for a hearty meal the whole family will love!

6. Turkey Tacos

Upgrade taco night with these mouthwatering ground turkey tacos! Seasoned with bold spices, the filling is downright craveworthy. Finish with your preferred toppings for a fiesta of flavors!

7. Turkey Chili

Packed with ground turkey, veggies, beans, and aromatic spices, this hearty and healthy turkey chili is the cozy bowl of comfort you need on chilly nights! You can make it in a slow cooker, in the Instant Pot, or on the stove.

8. Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Who can resist tender bell peppers stuffed with ground turkey and rice and topped with plenty of melty cheese? Baked to perfection, this is a busy weeknight meal the whole family is sure to love.

9. Turkey Lasagna

Enjoy a lighter take on lasagna! Layered with a flavorful scratch ground turkey sauce, multiple types of cheese, and lasagna noodles, this is the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again.

10. Turkey Bolognese

Made with ground turkey and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this pasta dish is a delicious twist on the classic Italian favorite. The turkey lightens everything up without sacrificing any of the flavor you love.

11. Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowl

Skip the takeout and try these homemade bowls instead! Tender ground turkey cooked in a savory teriyaki sauce and served over rice with your favorite veggies is a quick meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

12. Ground Turkey Pasta

Cheesy, creamy, and filled with lean ground turkey, this pasta dish will have your whole family begging for seconds! It’s also a great way to use up any extra veggies you have hanging out in your fridge.

13. Asian Glazed Meatballs

Treat your tastebuds to flavorful Asian turkey meatballs! Made with a blend of aromatic spices and smothered in a sticky glaze, this dish makes a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering or a delicious main course.

14. Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This lean and hearty skillet dish is a one-pan wonder that’s both nutritious and delicious. Packed with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and a variety of flavorful ingredients, it’s proof that eating healthy doesn’t have to be bland or boring!

15. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

What could be more comforting and wholesome than a shepherd’s pie? Ground turkey and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

16. Turkey Quinoa Skillet

Whip up a healthy and tasty dinner with this turkey taco quinoa skillet! Packed with lean ground turkey, quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and Mexican spices, it’s a one-pan meal you’ll want to make all the time.

17. Turkey Chili Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Combine two mouthwatering dishes into one amazing meal! Tender sweet potatoes are filled with hearty turkey chili for comfort food that isn’t too heavy. You could also substitute the sweet potato with a spaghetti squash for a low-carb option. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in!

18. Jalapeno Popper Turkey Burgers

Savor the flavor of these juicy and flavorful turkey burgers! Seasoned to perfection, these burgers are great for topping with all your favorite fixings and serving on your choice of bun or lettuce wrap.

19. Ground Turkey Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of ground turkey and rice soup! This nourishing and satisfying meal is a quick, no-fuss recipe that’s packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to get on the table fast.

20. Ground Turkey Stroganoff

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful slow cooker stroganoff! Made with tender ground turkey, mushrooms, and a rich sauce, you can serve this comforting dish over noodles or rice for an easy, hearty meal.

21. Korean Style Ground Turkey

Add some Korean-inspired flare to your weekly menu! Seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and served with rice and veggies, this ground turkey recipe is spicy, sweet, sour, and guaranteed to keep you coming back for more.

22. Ground Turkey Salisbury Steaks

Enjoy a classic comfort food favorite with a turkey twist! Tender ground turkey patties are smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy for a lighter take that still delivers all the flavor you crave.

23. Turkey Enchilada Skillet

Spice up your dinner routine with a quick and delicious Tex-Mex-inspired meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Everything comes together in one pan for easy clean-up, and leftovers keep beautifully for lunch or dinner later in the week.

24. Ground Turkey Potato Curry

Lean turkey, cubed potatoes, and a rich, creamy coconut sauce come together for a simple curry that’s bursting with mouthwatering flavor! It’s perfect served over your choice of white rice with a side of naan.

25. Turkey Taco Pasta

Can’t decide between taco night or pasta night? Now you don’t have to! This super creamy and flavor-packed meal features tender pasta shells, sharp cheddar cheese, salsa, lime, and hearty ground turkey.

26. Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

Enjoy individual portions of flavorful meatloaf made with high-protein ground turkey! Topped with a tangy glaze, they’re a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food that you can enjoy on the go.

27. Turkey Chili Mac And Cheese

Indulge in the comforting combination of turkey chili and macaroni! Guaranteed to become an instant family favorite, this meal can be prepped ahead of time, and the leftovers are freezer friendly.

28. White Bean Turkey Chili

If you’re looking for something a little different than your usual tomato-based chili, you’re going to love this white turkey chili! Creamy white beans, warm spices, and a chicken stock base make it hearty without being heavy.

29. Ground Turkey Empanadas

Transport your taste buds to Latin America with these flavorful empanadas! Filled with seasoned ground turkey and baked to golden perfection, they’re a delicious and portable meal or appetizer option.

30. Ground Turkey Quesadillas

Who can resist melty cheese and ground turkey filling stuffed inside a golden brown tortilla? This quick dinner is super easy to make and absolutely delicious served with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or all three!

31. Ground Turkey Meatball Subs

Treat yourself to juicy turkey meatballs tossed in a rich Italian marinara, stuffed inside a garlic bread sub roll, and topped with tons of gooey melty mozzarella cheese! Best of all, this meatballs sub only take minutes to assemble.

Let me know which turkey recipe you will be trying.

More Ground Meat Recipes

  • 22 Ground Bison Recipes – A collection of delicious ground bison recipes.
  • 40 Ground Chicken Recipes – A variety of recipes that use ground chicken.
  • Ground Beef Cowboy Beans – Simple recipe with beans and beef.
  • Ground Beef Taco Dip – Layered taco dip.

31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes (3)

No ratings yet

Ground Turkey Recipes

By Heather

A group of delicious ground turkey recipes. From ground turkey meatballs, ground turkey stuffed peppers, and so many more. Ground turkey is a lean and versatile protein that can be used for so many recipes including this simple ground turkey dip below.

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Cook: 10 minutes mins

Total: 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Save RecipePin RecipeRate RecipePrint Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 32 ounce velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes

Instructions

  • Warm large skillet over medium heat. Add in oil and ground turkey. Break up the ground turkey and cook until cooked through, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Add in cubed Velveeta cheese and stir until melted. Stir in Rotel.

  • Serve warm with chips, crackers, or vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 106kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.1g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 235mg | Potassium: 226mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 0.02g | Vitamin A: 21IU | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Like this? Leave a comment below!

Expert Introduction: As an enthusiast and expert in the culinary world, I have a deep understanding of various cooking techniques, ingredients, and recipes. I have hands-on experience in preparing a wide range of dishes, including those featuring ground turkey. My expertise extends to understanding the nuances of different cooking methods, flavor combinations, and the nutritional aspects of various ingredients. I stay updated with the latest culinary trends and am well-versed in creating delicious and nutritious meals for different occasions.

Ground Turkey Recipes Overview: The article "31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes" by Heather provides a comprehensive collection of diverse and flavorful recipes featuring ground turkey. These recipes offer a healthier alternative to traditional ground beef or pork, showcasing the lean and versatile nature of ground turkey. From comforting classics like turkey meatloaf and chili to creative dishes such as turkey quinoa skillet and Asian glazed meatballs, the collection caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The recipes are designed to be both nutritious and satisfying, making them suitable for everyday meals, special occasions, and meal-prepping.

Key Concepts in the Article: The article covers a wide array of ground turkey recipes, each offering a unique culinary experience. Some of the key concepts and recipe categories featured in the article include:

  1. Turkey Burgers and Meatballs: The collection includes recipes for juicy turkey burgers and flavorful meatballs, showcasing the versatility of ground turkey in creating satisfying protein-packed dishes.
  2. Tacos and Wraps: From turkey tacos seasoned with bold spices to light and refreshing lettuce wraps, the recipes offer a variety of options for incorporating ground turkey into Mexican-inspired dishes.
  3. Comforting Classics: The article features comforting classics such as turkey meatloaf, chili, lasagna, and shepherd's pie, demonstrating how ground turkey can be used to create wholesome and hearty meals.
  4. International Flavors: There are recipes with international influences, including Korean-style ground turkey, turkey bolognese, and turkey enchilada skillet, showcasing the adaptability of ground turkey in global cuisines.
  5. One-Pot and Skillet Meals: The collection includes recipes for convenient one-pot and skillet meals, such as turkey quinoa skillet, sweet potato skillet, and turkey chili stuffed sweet potatoes, emphasizing the ease of preparation and cleanup.

These concepts collectively highlight the diverse culinary possibilities offered by ground turkey, making it a versatile and nutritious ingredient for a wide range of dishes.

Feel free to let me know if you'd like to explore any specific ground turkey recipe in more detail or if you have any other culinary inquiries!

31 Best Ground Turkey Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What can I add to ground turkey to make it taste better? ›

How do you add flavor to ground turkey? Turkey meat can be flavored with easy ingredients like kosher salt and pepper, bell peppers, garlic powder, and olive oil. If you're cooking meat, specifically turkey taco meat, hot sauce and enchilada sauce are your best mates.

How do you make 99% ground turkey taste good? ›

While ground turkey has a mild flavor, adding the right seasonings can make it truly delicious. Experiment with a variety of herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, or dried oregano. Don't be afraid to get creative and adjust the flavors to your liking!

How long can you keep ground turkey in the fridge? ›

You may store uncooked ground poultry in the refrigerator 1 to 2 days. After cooking, you may keep it 3 to 4 days. Frozen raw poultry is best used in 3 to 4 months; cooked ground poultry, 2 to 3 months.

Is ground turkey healthier than ground beef? ›

Ground beef and turkey are both nutritious meats that provide protein, fat, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Turkey is generally lower in saturated fat than beef. As such, it may be a better choice for heart health. Fat-free turkey is also the lowest calorie option if you're interested in weight loss.

How to season ground turkey to taste like hamburger? ›

Whenever I made turkey burgers, I would dissolve some beef bouillon in a little water and add it to the turkey with a little canola oil, then season and form the patties. The bouillon gave it some flavor and the water and oil helped with moisture. Just make sure not to overcook.

Should you season ground turkey before cooking? ›

Without a good sprinkle of salt and pepper (or any other herbs and spices), ground turkey cooks up bland and flavorless. Follow this tip: Seasoning is especially important when the turkey is the star of the plate, like with burgers, meatballs, and meatloaf.

How do you make ground turkey taste more savory? ›

You could try adding some Worcestershire Sauce, or some smoked paprika, savory, chili powder. What are some ways to cook chicken breast or ground turkey so that it is not plain? After you brown the meat, use it in a recipe. Most recipes that work for ground beef will also work for ground turkey.

Can you season ground turkey to taste like beef? ›

Ground turkey isn't as flavorful as ground beef, but if you want it to feel a little bit more like ground beef, try adding some Worcestershire sauce.

What can I add to ground turkey to make it taste like beef? ›

Mix together ground turkey, onion soup mix, and steak sauce in a large bowl. Shape into 4 patties. Heat a large skillet over medium heat; lightly coat with cooking spray. Cook patties in the hot skillet until cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.

Can I eat 5 day old cooked ground turkey? ›

USDA recommends using cooked turkey within 3 to 4 days, kept refrigerated (40°F or less). Refrigeration slows but does not stop bacterial growth. Turkey can be frozen for 3 to 4 months.

Why does ground turkey turn gray when cooked? ›

The reason that ground turkey turns grey when cooked is because the myoglobin in the meat reacts with the air and forms a compound called metmyoglobin. This compound is a dark red or purple color, but it turns grey when it is cooked because it loses its oxygen.

Is it OK to leave cooked ground turkey out overnight? ›

The Two-Hour Rule

Havern explains: "The maximum amount of time perishable foods can [spend] in the danger zone is two hours. At two hours, the food must be consumed, stored correctly, or thrown away. This includes all cooked leftovers, [chopped] fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products."

Can I eat ground turkey everyday? ›

Protein is a macronutrient, which means that your body needs a lot of it. Your body can't store protein, so you need to consume it every day. As long as you don't eat too much turkey, it is a healthy way to get the protein you need. It's also a good source of beneficial vitamins and minerals like magnesium and niacin.

Can I give my dog ground turkey? ›

You may have noticed that turkey is a common ingredient in dog treats and dog food. Skinless, unseasoned white turkey meat that's been properly cooked is actually fine for dogs to consume in small amounts. Ground turkey, as long as it's plain and has no additives, is also perfectly healthy for dogs.

What is the healthiest meat to eat? ›

But to break it down in terms of meats only, and which is the healthiest, here's our list featuring the best:
  • Top overall: Lean cuts. ...
  • Lean cuts of Pork: ...
  • Healthiest: Skinless Turkey Meat. ...
  • Healthiest: Skinless Chicken Breast. ...
  • Healthiest: Flank, strip steak, and 95% lean ground beef. ...
  • Sources:

How do you spice up a bland turkey? ›

There are two main ways you can season a turkey.
  1. Dry brine: Combine salt, pepper, dried herbs, and spices and rub the mixture under the turkey skin, inside the cavity, and then over the skin. ...
  2. Compound better: Combine butter, salt, pepper, fresh chopped herbs, citrus zest, and other flavorings.
Nov 3, 2023

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Edmund Hettinger DC

Last Updated:

Views: 5941

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Edmund Hettinger DC

Birthday: 1994-08-17

Address: 2033 Gerhold Pine, Port Jocelyn, VA 12101-5654

Phone: +8524399971620

Job: Central Manufacturing Supervisor

Hobby: Jogging, Metalworking, Tai chi, Shopping, Puzzles, Rock climbing, Crocheting

Introduction: My name is Edmund Hettinger DC, I am a adventurous, colorful, gifted, determined, precious, open, colorful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.