20 Delicious Kid Friendly Ground Turkey Recipes Healthy

Looking for a way to sneak more nutrition into your kids’ meals without a battle? Ground turkey is your secret weapon! Packed with protein and perfect for picky eaters, these 20 delicious recipes are not only healthy but also quick to whip up. From cozy casseroles to fun twists on classics, get ready to make dinner time a breeze with flavors the whole family will love. Let’s dive in!

Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

These Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers, any color
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, 1/2 cup diced onion, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 cup cooked rice, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Spoon the mixture into the prepared bell peppers.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top of the stuffed peppers. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The melty cheese and spicy turkey filling create a delightful contrast with the sweet, tender pepper. It’s a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle the stuffed peppers with hot sauce before serving.

Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado

Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado

These Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado are a quick, flavorful twist on taco night that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in water and simmer for 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
  6. Fill each tortilla with the turkey mixture, top with avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

The creamy avocado and zesty lime bring a fresh contrast to the savory, spiced turkey, making these tacos a standout meal.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the skillet with the onion.

Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

These Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins are a fun twist on the classic comfort food, perfect for portion-controlled servings or a kid-friendly meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a muffin tin.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, ketchup, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing gently to fill each cup.
  4. Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the muffins are cooked through and the cheese is golden.

The Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist, savory meatloaf inside.

Tip: Let the muffins rest for 5 minutes before removing them from the tin to keep their shape.

Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry

Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry

Whip up this Turkey and Veggie Stir Fry for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor and color.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped green onions before serving.

The honey and soy sauce create a perfect balance of sweet and savory, while the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. This stir fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a rainbow of veggies with lean protein.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.

Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Skillet

Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Skillet

Looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Skillet is your answer, combining lean protein and whole grains in one delicious dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the quinoa’s ability to soak up all the savory flavors while adding a delightful texture contrast to the tender turkey.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the cumin.

Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

Wake up to a hearty and colorful Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, perfect for using up leftover turkey or starting your day with a protein-packed breakfast.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 4 eggs

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potato and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until slightly softened.
  2. Add onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir in turkey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until the turkey is heated through and the spices are fragrant.
  4. Make four wells in the hash and crack an egg into each. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the eggs are set to your liking.
  5. Sprinkle with green onions before serving.

The smoky paprika and sweet potatoes create a depth of flavor that’s beautifully balanced by the freshness of the green onions and the richness of the eggs.

Tip: For a crispier hash, press the mixture down in the skillet after adding the turkey and let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before adding the eggs.

Easy Turkey and Spinach Lasagna

Easy Turkey and Spinach Lasagna

This Easy Turkey and Spinach Lasagna is a comforting weeknight dinner that layers rich flavors between tender pasta sheets.

Ingredients

  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook until turkey is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped spinach until well combined.
  4. Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half the ricotta mixture, half the turkey, and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with noodles. Top with remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

The layers of creamy ricotta and spinach with savory turkey create a lasagna that’s both hearty and fresh. Perfect for when you crave something comforting yet balanced.

Tip: Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure neat servings.

Turkey and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Turkey and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These Turkey and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful way to turn humble zucchini into a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Scoop out the centers of the zucchini halves to create boats, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Brush the zucchini with olive oil and place on a baking sheet.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until no longer pink. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, cooking until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cooked rice and marinara sauce into the turkey mixture. Spoon the mixture into the zucchini boats.
  4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the stuffed zucchinis. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The combination of juicy turkey, savory rice, and melted cheese atop tender zucchini creates a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is beautiful to serve.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the zucchini boats for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Ground Turkey and Black Bean Chili

Ground Turkey and Black Bean Chili

Warm up your weeknights with this hearty Ground Turkey and Black Bean Chili, a flavorful twist on the classic that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve hot.

The smoked paprika adds a subtle depth to this chili, making it stand out from the rest. Perfect for those who love a bit of smokiness in their meals.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the bell pepper.

Turkey and Cornbread Casserole

Turkey and Cornbread Casserole

This Turkey and Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory turkey with sweet cornbread in a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir in the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until just combined.
  4. Fold in the cream-style corn and cooked turkey into the batter, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The magic of this casserole lies in the contrast between the moist, savory turkey layer and the sweet, crumbly cornbread topping—a match made in comfort food heaven.

Tip: For an extra kick, mix a teaspoon of chili powder into the turkey as it cooks.

Quick Turkey and Broccoli Pasta

Quick Turkey and Broccoli Pasta

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both speedy and satisfying? This Quick Turkey and Broccoli Pasta is a one-pot wonder that delivers on flavor and ease.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the broccoli florets, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for another 3 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss everything together.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is evenly coated.

The magic of this dish lies in the way the Parmesan melts into the chicken broth, creating a light yet creamy sauce that clings to every noodle and floret.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Turkey and Apple Meatballs

Turkey and Apple Meatballs

These Turkey and Apple Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic, offering a sweet and savory flavor that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup finely diced apple (about 1 medium apple)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, diced apple, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle the meatballs with 2 tbsp olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

The subtle sweetness of apple paired with warm spices makes these meatballs irresistibly flavorful, while keeping them moist and tender. A perfect dish that brings a little something special to the table.

Tip: For an extra crispy exterior, broil the meatballs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Healthy Turkey and Carrot Burgers

Healthy Turkey and Carrot Burgers

These Healthy Turkey and Carrot Burgers are a lean, mean, flavor-packed alternative to your usual beef patty, with a sweet crunch that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated carrots, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown.
  4. Serve on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings and enjoy the juicy, carrot-infused goodness.

The grated carrots not only add a subtle sweetness but also keep the burgers incredibly moist, making them a hit even with the pickiest eaters.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the turkey mixture before forming the patties.

Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff

Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff

This Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff is a comforting twist on the classic, offering a lighter take without sacrificing the rich, creamy sauce we all love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are golden and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring to coat. Gradually add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
  4. Return the turkey to the skillet. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through but do not boil.
  5. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley.

The secret to this stroganoff’s depth of flavor lies in the Worcestershire and Dijon mustard, creating a sauce that’s tangy, creamy, and utterly irresistible.

Tip: For an even richer sauce, substitute half of the beef broth with dry white wine.

Ground Turkey and Pea Curry

Ground Turkey and Pea Curry

This Ground Turkey and Pea Curry is a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that brings a cozy twist to your table with its aromatic spices and tender peas.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add frozen peas, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The creamy coconut milk balances the heat from the curry powder, while the peas add a sweet pop to every bite.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.

Turkey and Butternut Squash Soup

Turkey and Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Turkey and Butternut Squash Soup, a perfect blend of savory and sweet that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the butternut squash, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
  3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
  4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cooked turkey and heavy cream. Heat through for about 5 minutes.

The creamy texture of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the richness of the turkey, making every spoonful a delight. Tip: For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top before serving.

Easy Turkey and Bean Enchiladas

Easy Turkey and Bean Enchiladas

These Easy Turkey and Bean Enchiladas are a weeknight lifesaver, packed with flavor and ready in under an hour. Perfect for when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
  • 8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Add the black beans and 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the turkey and bean mixture, roll up, and place seam side down in the dish.
  5. Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The secret to these enchiladas’ irresistible appeal? The combination of smoky spices and creamy beans tucked inside each soft tortilla, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the turkey mixture while cooking.

Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas

Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas

These Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas are a quick, flavorful twist on the classic, packed with lean protein and greens for a satisfying meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large flour tortillas

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded turkey, chopped spinach, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and the turkey is heated through.
  2. Remove the turkey and spinach mixture from the skillet and set aside. Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
  3. Place one tortilla in the skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the tortilla, then spread half of the turkey and spinach mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the mixture, then top with another tortilla.
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  5. Cut each quesadilla into quarters and serve warm. The melty cheese and savory turkey filling with a hint of cumin make these quesadillas irresistibly delicious.

Tip: For an extra crispy exterior, lightly butter the outside of the tortillas before cooking.

Healthy Turkey and Lentil Stew

Healthy Turkey and Lentil Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Healthy Turkey and Lentil Stew, a perfect blend of lean protein and fiber-rich lentils that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Stir in rinsed lentils, 4 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  4. Remove the bay leaf and stir in 2 cups fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until spinach wilts.

The magic of this stew lies in the lentils, which thicken the broth naturally while adding a satisfying texture that makes every spoonful hearty.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Turkey and Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

Turkey and Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

This Turkey and Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is a cozy, flavorful twist on your weeknight dinner that brings a touch of autumn to your table any time of year.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried sage
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz pasta of your choice
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried sage, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
  6. Add the turkey and pumpkin sauce to the pasta, tossing to combine. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

The creamy pumpkin sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, offering a rich and subtly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the sage in the olive oil before adding the onion and garlic.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious, kid-friendly ground turkey recipes inspires your next family meal! Each dish is a tasty, healthy option that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for easy access. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment