When it comes to weeknight meals, busy home cooks are always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipe ideas. And what’s more versatile than ground turkey? With its mild flavor and high protein content, ground turkey is a great substitute for traditional beef or pork in many dishes. Plus, it’s often less expensive and lower in fat, making it an attractive option for health-conscious eaters. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful ground turkey recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From tacos to casserole, meatballs to stuffed peppers, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead and get inspired – your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy combination of turkey and black beans, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend fiesta. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground turkey, black beans, and spices with the crunch of lettuce, cheese, and tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with turkey-black bean mixture, cheese, lettuce, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and spinach 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
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
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. Stir in chopped spinach, cooked rice, and crumbled feta (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these succulent turkey meatballs, served with a refreshing side of creamy 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
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce ingredients:
+ 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
+ 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) 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 the tzatziki sauce by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
6. Serve the warm meatballs with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines juicy turkey with roasted sweet potatoes and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove turkey from skillet and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with sweet potato mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until turkey is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Asian-inspired turkey lettuce wraps are perfect for a light and flavorful meal or snack. Crispy turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce all come together in a delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Form into small patties and cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Assemble wraps by placing a cooked patty on each lettuce leaf, then topping with cucumber, bell pepper, scallions, and pickled carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Zucchini Casserole
A delicious and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, zucchini, and cheese for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine turkey, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange cooked lasagna noodles on the bottom.
6. Layer turkey mixture, sautéed zucchini mixture, and shredded cheese in that order.
7. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy turkey with nutty quinoa and sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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 over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta and Olives
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Greek-inspired turkey burgers, packed with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a hint of Mediterranean spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, olives, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve on hamburger buns with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Bolognese
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender turkey with savory mushrooms and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve turkey and mushroom bolognese over cooked spaghetti, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Chili with Cornbread Topping
A hearty and comforting twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines tender turkey with a rich and flavorful cornbread topping.
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Chili:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread Topping:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the turkey chili according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornbread ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour the cornbread mixture over the cooked turkey chili.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, kale, and ricotta cheese with the comfort of stuffed pasta shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
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 turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked. Add chopped kale and stir until wilted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the turkey-kale mixture.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-kale filling. Place shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Turkey Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering BBQ turkey meatloaf, smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the sweet glaze by whisking together BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with the sweet glaze. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Turkey and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of turkey, rice, and cabbage to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 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. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cooled cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Roll up the cabbage leaf and secure with toothpicks if needed. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Place the rolled cabbage on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 15 ounces white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines savory turkey with creamy pesto for a deliciously satisfying appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and stem the mushrooms. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Drizzle pesto over the turkey mixture, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Corn Enchiladas
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet corn, and creamy enchilada sauce for a delicious twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until heated through.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of corn kernels and a drizzle of enchilada sauce.
5. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this Turkey and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie combines the savory flavors of turkey and lentils with the warmth of mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, garlic, and thyme over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the lentils, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe combines the savory flavor of turkey with the nutritious goodness of broccoli, making it a perfect meal for any time of day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, broccoli, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory turkey and creamy avocado, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, mix diced turkey, mashed avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
5. Divide the turkey-avocado mixture among the sweet potato halves, spooning it into the cavities.
6. Serve with optional sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes (sweet potatoes), 10-15 minutes (assembly)
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of turkey and eggplant with melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its crispy breading and rich tomato sauce, this Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Dip eggplant slices into turkey mixture, then coat in olive oil.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Top each slice with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight meals with these 20 flavorful ground turkey recipes! From tacos to casseroles, and from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian-fusion creations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a more substantial meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try making Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Tacos, Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers, or Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki sauce. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’ll never get bored with ground turkey again!
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