Looking for a way to keep your meals both delicious and nutritious? Ground turkey is your secret weapon! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, these 20 recipes promise flavor-packed dishes that don’t skimp on health. From hearty chili to savory meatballs, we’ve got your dinner dilemmas covered. Dive in and discover how easy and tasty healthy eating can be!
Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema
These Ground Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema are a weeknight hero, offering a lighter twist on taco night without skimping on flavor.
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
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Pour in water and simmer for 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- While the turkey cooks, make the avocado crema by blending avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and salt until smooth.
- Warm tortillas according to package directions. Fill each with turkey mixture, drizzle with avocado crema, and garnish with cilantro.
The creamy avocado crema adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the savory turkey, making every bite a perfect balance. Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the turkey while it cooks.
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
These Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, healthy meal that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, any color
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and chicken broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the broth is absorbed.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Add ground turkey, salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
- Stir the cooked quinoa into the turkey mixture. Spoon the mixture into the bell peppers, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 25 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
The combination of fluffy quinoa, savory turkey, and melted cheese creates a satisfying texture contrast that makes these stuffed peppers a standout dish.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the turkey mixture before cooking.
Healthy Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
These Healthy Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce are a lighter take on a classic, packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the marinara sauce, gently stirring to coat. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
The combination of lean turkey and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s both satisfying and light, with the marinara adding a rich, tangy depth.
Tip: For an extra tender texture, soak the breadcrumbs in a little milk before adding them to the turkey mixture.
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Looking for a hearty, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a weeknight winner that comes together in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add sweet potato, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add baby spinach and chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the spinach is wilted.
The combination of smoky spices and sweet potatoes creates a comforting dish with a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens without compromising on taste.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.
Turkey Burgers with Spinach and Feta
These Turkey Burgers with Spinach and Feta are a juicy, flavorful twist on the classic burger, packed with healthy greens and tangy cheese for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat 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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve the burgers on your favorite buns with toppings like sliced tomatoes, red onion, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
The combination of spinach and feta not only adds a burst of flavor but also keeps the burgers incredibly moist. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Tip: For an even juicier burger, let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before serving.
One-Pot Turkey and Rice Casserole
This One-Pot Turkey and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in a snap, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in frozen peas. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the peas are heated through.
The magic of this dish lies in the way the rice absorbs all the savory flavors, creating a creamy texture that’s irresistibly comforting. The melted cheese on top adds a delightful gooeyness that makes every bite a joy.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs over the cheese before letting it melt.
Spicy Turkey Lettuce Wraps
These Spicy Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a perfect blend of heat and freshness, making them an irresistible appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, sriracha, ground ginger, and salt, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and mix in hoisin sauce until well combined.
- Spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves, garnishing with green onions and cilantro before serving.
The crunch of fresh lettuce paired with the spicy, savory turkey filling creates a dynamic texture and flavor contrast that’s sure to impress.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add some chopped water chestnuts to the turkey mixture.
Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Turkey and Black Bean Chili, a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and frozen corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
This chili stands out with its perfect balance of spices and the freshness of cilantro, adding a bright finish to the rich, smoky flavors.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the bell pepper in step 1.
Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner? This Ground Turkey Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a one-pan wonder that’s packed with protein and colorful veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 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.
- Add red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
The sesame oil and ginger give this stir-fry a warm, nutty flavor that’s irresistible, while the crisp-tender veggies add the perfect crunch.
Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle with sriracha before serving.
Turkey Meatloaf with Glaze
This Turkey Meatloaf with Glaze is a lighter take on the classic comfort food, packed with flavor and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
- In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup to make the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the rest for later.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your meatloaf is moist and flavorful.
The combination of the savory meatloaf with the sweet and tangy glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s sure to impress. Plus, using turkey keeps it light without sacrificing taste.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.
Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Turkey
Stuffed zucchini with ground turkey is a hearty yet healthy dish that brings a comforting twist to your dinner table, perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Scoop out the centers of the zucchini halves to create boats, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Chop the scooped zucchini flesh and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1/2 cup diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the ground turkey, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped zucchini flesh and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Mix in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, and 1 beaten egg until well combined.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture, pressing down lightly. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and pour 1 cup marinara sauce over them.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the tops are golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
The combination of juicy ground turkey and melted Parmesan creates a satisfying texture, while the zucchini boats keep everything neatly contained for a fuss-free meal.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the stuffed zucchinis for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Ground Turkey and Mushroom Pasta
This Ground Turkey and Mushroom Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, 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.
- Add mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are soft and turkey is fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
The combination of earthy mushrooms and savory turkey, tossed with whole wheat pasta, creates a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet when cooking the mushrooms.
Turkey Sloppy Joes
Who says sloppy joes have to be made with beef? This turkey version is a lighter twist on the classic, packed with all the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors you love.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Spoon the turkey mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately.
The secret to these sloppy joes is the balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and tanginess from the Worcestershire sauce, creating a flavor that’s irresistibly good.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
Healthy Turkey and Kale Soup
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Healthy Turkey and Kale Soup, a perfect blend of lean protein and greens that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the onion and carrots to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the kale, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. The soup’s vibrant green kale and rich turkey broth create a visually appealing dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Tip: For an extra kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the soup as it simmers.
Ground Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna
This Ground Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna swaps out pasta for thin slices of eggplant, offering a lighter twist on the classic that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until slightly tender.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground turkey until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp dried basil. Remove from heat.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce. Layer half the eggplant slices, followed by all the ground turkey, 1/2 cup ricotta, and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Repeat layers with remaining eggplant, sauce, ricotta, and Parmesan, then top with mozzarella.
- Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
The eggplant becomes wonderfully tender, almost melting into the rich layers of turkey and cheese, creating a lasagna that’s satisfying without feeling heavy.
Tip: For extra flavor, let the assembled lasagna sit in the fridge for an hour before baking—it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
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 cornbread mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey with diced onions, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the turkey is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cornbread mix, milk, and egg until smooth. Stir in the canned corn and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the cooked turkey mixture evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the turkey, spreading it to cover completely.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cornbread 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, fluffy cornbread topping—a match made in comfort food heaven.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the turkey mixture before cooking.
Ground Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
Warm up your weeknights with this hearty Ground Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili, a twist on the classic that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in butternut squash, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
- Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.
The sweetness of butternut squash balances the smokiness of paprika and the heat from chili powder, creating a chili that’s complex yet comforting.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onion and garlic.
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the heartiness of ground turkey with the freshness of spinach, all nestled in tender pasta shells.
Ingredients
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and minced garlic; cook until turkey is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked turkey, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with the turkey mixture and place in the dish.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
The combination of creamy ricotta and savory turkey makes these stuffed shells irresistibly rich, while the spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the shells for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Ground Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Looking for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Ground Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry is your answer, packing a punch with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 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.
- Add 2 cups broccoli florets and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Stir in 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat everything evenly.
The sesame oil and red pepper flakes give this stir-fry a delightful depth and warmth, making it far from your average weeknight meal.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.
Turkey and White Bean Stew
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Turkey and White Bean Stew, a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the white beans and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. The stew should be thick and the flavors well blended.
This stew stands out with its perfect balance of tender turkey, creamy beans, and aromatic herbs, making every spoonful a delight.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when you add the chicken broth.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious ground turkey recipes inspires your next healthy meal! Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for your family, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for easy access. Happy cooking!