Are you tired of hearing “I don’t like this” at dinner time? If so, you’re not alone! Many parents struggle to get their kids to eat a variety of foods, especially when it comes to meat. But what if I told you there are ways to make ground turkey not only palatable but also exciting and fun for your little ones?
Introducing our list of 20 delicious kid-friendly ground turkey recipes that even the pickiest of eaters will love! From casseroles and skillet meals to sandwiches and baked goods, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are packed with nutrients and hidden veggies that your kids won’t even notice they’re eating.
In this article, we’ll dive into our top 20 ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals or a chef seeking inspiration for your next family dinner, keep reading to discover some tasty and nutritious options for your entire crew.
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked turkey, peas and carrots, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
5. Pour the cheesy mixture over the turkey and rice mixture in the skillet.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of turkey meatloaf with the convenience of a muffin, perfect for snacks or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, cheese, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil.
4. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey Taco Skillet with Hidden Veggies
Transform ordinary tacos into a nutritious and delicious meal with this flavorful Turkey Taco Skillet recipe. By incorporating finely chopped veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, you’ll be surprised at how much your taste buds will love the hidden nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa for toppings
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.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed veggies. Cook until veggies are tender.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning turkey mixture onto tortillas and topping with cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty recipe combines ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices to create a delicious and nutritious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a baking dish. Make a shallow indentation in the center of the sweet potatoes and add the turkey mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to your snack or meal routine with these colorful bell peppers stuffed with savory turkey and cheese. A perfect combination of textures and tastes, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, garlic, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil to the skillet; stir until combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Turkey and Veggie Pasta Bake
This satisfying pasta bake is a great way to use up leftover turkey and veggies, and can be ready in under an hour. With its creamy sauce and crunchy topping, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the turkey, frozen vegetables, and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Corn Quesadillas
Turkey and Corn Quesadillas: A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, corn, and cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the turkey-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hidden Veggie Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are a game-changer for kids and adults alike who want to sneak in some extra veggies. Made with finely chopped carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, these turkey meatballs are packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 medium bell pepper, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite marinara sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, carrot, zucchini, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your lasagna game with these scrumptious turkey and spinach rolls, packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, spinach, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper over medium-high heat until the turkey is fully cooked.
4. Combine cooked turkey mixture with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Place 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the rolls and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Macaroni Skillet
This recipe is a quick and easy solution for a satisfying dinner, perfect for a busy weeknight. With its blend of savory turkey, creamy macaroni, and flavorful vegetables, this skillet meal is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
A twist on the classic slider, this recipe combines tender turkey breast with melted cheese and served on soft Hawaiian rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 4 Hawaiian dinner rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Butter one side of each roll.
3. Place a few slices of turkey breast on each roll, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle with chopped green onions if using.
5. Place rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Rice
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey with the crunch of broccoli, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Serve the stir-fry mixture over cooked white rice. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are packed with the flavors of turkey and carrot, making them a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked turkey and adds a nutritious boost from the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the diced turkey and grated carrot to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (batter should still be slightly lumpy).
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
Looking for a tasty and healthy snack or appetizer? Look no further! These Turkey and Zucchini Fritters are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, packed with protein, veggies, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, zucchini, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings.
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into small patties or fritters.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Pita Pockets
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful and convenient pockets filled with tender turkey, melted cheese, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 pita breads
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheese, cucumber, and bell pepper.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of hummus on each pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture onto one half of each pita, then fold the other half over to form a pocket.
5. Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and pita is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Potato Shepherd’s Pie
This classic British dish is a staple of comfort food, made with ground turkey, mashed potatoes, and sautéed vegetables. This recipe is an easy twist on the traditional version, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Pea Risotto
This comforting risotto recipe combines tender turkey, sweet peas, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Perfect for using up leftover roasted turkey, this dish is also a great way to warm up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey (roasted or leftover)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in peas and turkey. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
Looking for a delicious twist on traditional empanadas? These Turkey and Cheese Empanadas are the perfect solution! Flaky pastry filled with savory turkey and melted cheese, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup leftover cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Mix diced turkey and shredded cheese in a small bowl.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the turkey mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg for sealing.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle; press edges to seal.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush tops with remaining egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
This satisfying casserole combines the flavors of savory turkey, sweet cornbread, and tangy cheddar cheese for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine milk, egg, and cornbread mix. Stir until just combined.
3. In a large skillet, combine diced turkey, creamed corn, and paprika. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the turkey-corn mixture to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the cornbread is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted turkey with the sweetness of butternut squash, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly fall evenings. With its unique blend of spices and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 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. Roast the turkey, butternut squash, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a large bowl for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the roasted vegetables with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the squash is tender.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and easy-to-make ground turkey recipes that your picky eaters will love! From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are perfect for busy parents looking for quick and healthy meal solutions. Try making Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole, Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins, or Turkey Taco Skillet with Hidden Veggies – all of which hide veggies in kid-friendly ways. Other recipes include Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers, Easy Turkey and Veggie Pasta Bake, and more. Get creative with ground turkey and impress your kids with these tasty and nutritious meals!
