Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Do you need a culinary pick-me-up to spice up your busy evenings? Look no further! Ground turkey is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a wide variety of delicious dishes, from comforting casseroles to international-inspired stir-fries.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering ground turkey recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. From classic meatloaf to global-inspired tacos and skillet dinners, there’s something on this list for every taste bud. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family of four looking for mealtime inspiration, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Get ready to elevate your ground turkey game with our top 20 flavorful recipes below!
Classic Turkey Meatloaf with Glaze
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, this turkey meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser. Moist and juicy, it’s topped with a sweet and sticky glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cheese, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix 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 cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare glaze by mixing ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with glaze. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Tacos
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Tacos Recipe
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of turkey, the comfort of black beans, and a hint of heat from cumin and chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and avocado for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili flakes to the skillet. Cook until the turkey is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in the cooked black beans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto tortillas, then topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese (if using), and a dollop of salsa.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers! Tender turkey, savory herbs, and Mediterranean spices come together to create a deliciously aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, parsley, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful twist on classic stuffed shells. This recipe combines tender turkey, wilted spinach, and a blend of cheeses to create a satisfying main course or impressive dinner party dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Asian-inspired turkey lettuce wraps combine juicy turkey with crunchy vegetables and tangy flavors. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
2. Add sliced turkey to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Assemble wraps by placing a few slices of turkey on each lettuce leaf, followed by red bell pepper, cucumber, and scallions.
4. Drizzle with remaining marinade and sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the savory flavors of turkey, rice, and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
5. Dot the top with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This skillet combines the savory flavors of turkey, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers with the comfort of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
4. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this refreshing twist on classic meatballs. Moist turkey meatballs infused with feta cheese and Greek herbs are served with a tangy and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 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 ground turkey, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tzatziki sauce by combining yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
6. Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
This recipe combines the flavors of tender turkey and sautéed mushrooms with the richness of sour cream, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Serve over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey in a skillet with butter until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Stir in beef broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let sauce thicken, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve over cooked egg noodles. Top with sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Turkey Sloppy Joes
A twist on the classic sloppy joe, this BBQ turkey version is a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 8-10 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the ketchup, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Serve the BBQ turkey mixture on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Add some excitement to your mealtime with these flavorful and nutritious zucchini boats stuffed with a savory turkey and quinoa mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine turkey, quinoa, parsley, feta cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Turkey and Broccoli Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of turkey with the goodness of broccoli, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and broccoli in a little bit of oil until tender.
3. Add cooked turkey and stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked pasta with turkey and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting and flavorful take on the traditional shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender turkey with creamy cornbread and savory vegetables. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Mix cornbread mix with milk and butter. Pour over turkey mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce
This flavorful stir-fry combines juicy turkey breast, crispy kale, and creamy peanut sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or lunch option. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into small pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
5. Pour the peanut sauce over the turkey and kale mixture; stir to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of tender turkey, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and filling chili perfect for a chilly day. With its rich and satisfying flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in tomatoes, beans, broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines savory turkey, creamy pesto, and earthy portobello mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, pesto, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the mushrooms.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cabbage Egg Roll Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful Turkey and Cabbage Egg Roll Bowls. Savor the perfect blend of savory turkey, crunchy cabbage, and creamy egg rolls in a single serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 8-10 egg roll wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey, cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Cook until turkey is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, fry egg roll wrappers in batches until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. To assemble the bowls: Divide cooked turkey mixture among bowls. Top with fried egg rolls, scallions, and a drizzle of soy sauce (optional).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Bolognese
This hearty and flavorful pasta dish combines the rich taste of turkey with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions.
6. Serve the turkey and lentil bolognese over the cooked pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these Turkey and Avocado Quesadillas combine the savory goodness of roasted turkey with the creaminess of ripe avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, avocado, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
4. Add about 1/2 cup of the turkey-avocado mixture on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Turkey and Butternut Squash Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender turkey breast with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a hint of coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add turkey breast and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked turkey breast, roasted butternut squash, and coconut milk to the skillet. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground turkey recipes! From classic meatloaf and tacos to Mediterranean stuffed peppers and Asian-inspired lettuce wraps, there’s something for everyone. Try making cheesy casserole, sweet potato skillet, or Greek-style meatballs for a delicious dinner that’s quick to prepare. You’ll also find hearty options like chili, shepherd’s pie, and bolognese sauce, as well as international twists like curry and stir-fry. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these recipes are sure to please.
