Are you looking for delicious and healthy meal ideas that fit your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory meals to sweet treats. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering low-carb ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and stuffed bell peppers, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and lasagna roll-ups, these recipes offer a wide range of options for any meal or occasion. And the best part? They’re all low in carbs, making them perfect for those following a ketogenic diet or just trying to reduce their carb intake.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, providing you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure success in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something on this list that will become a new favorite.
Low Carb Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
This quick and flavorful skillet dinner is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. It’s a delicious twist on traditional turkey and rice, with the added nutrition of cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower “rice” (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the cauliflower is tender.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy ground turkey, savory rice, and sweet bell peppers to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and top with cooked rice.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful and healthy twist, combining lean turkey and nutritious zucchini for a deliciously moist and tender result.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
6. Serve meatballs with warm marinara sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of ground turkey, spinach, and cheese with the earthy taste of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 as it cooks.
3. Add chopped spinach, olive oil, and garlic to the skillet; cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey-spinach mixture, dividing evenly.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each mushroom.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low Carb Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, these lettuce wraps are a great way to enjoy the taste of turkey tacos without the extra carbs. Made with fresh lettuce leaves, juicy ground turkey, and crunchy toppings, this recipe is perfect for low-carb dieters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Sour cream (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture onto lettuce leaves, followed by shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Ground Turkey and Broccoli
This hearty dish combines juicy ground turkey with a rich and creamy sauce, perfectly balanced by the earthiness of broccoli. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic and broccoli to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in cream, butter, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Stuffed Cucumber Boats
Transform the humble cucumber into a delightful vessel for flavors! This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado, the savory goodness of turkey, and the crunch of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out a portion of the pulp to create a boat shape.
2. In a bowl, combine turkey, avocado, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff each cucumber boat with the turkey-avocado mixture, mounding slightly.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Keto-Friendly Ground Turkey Chili
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day while staying within your keto diet guidelines. Made with ground turkey, vegetables, and spices, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna Roll-Ups
Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, eggplant, and lasagna with a twist – instead of baking it in a pan, we’re rolling it up into bite-sized bundles. Perfect for parties or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add eggplant rounds to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. To assemble roll-ups, lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat, then add a spoonful of turkey mixture, followed by a sprinkle of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Roll up tightly and repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place rolled-up lasagna bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Carb Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful low-carb stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of turkey with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
This recipe combines the crunch of jalapeños with the creaminess of cheese and savory turkey. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 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 cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the turkey mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
A twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines ground turkey with roasted cauliflower for a hearty and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Pesto Spaghetti Squash Bowls
This recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti squash with the savory flavors of turkey and pesto, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized spaghetti squash
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
4. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake the squash for 45 minutes or until tender.
8. Divide the cooked turkey mixture among the squash halves, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Low Carb Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic beef stroganoff, using tender turkey breast and rich mushrooms to create a deliciously low-carb dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, 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 chicken broth, low-sodium
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey breast in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms and onion until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the turkey breast to the skillet, stirring to coat with sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Ricotta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizers with this savory and satisfying dish featuring tender portobello mushrooms filled with a flavorful turkey and ricotta mixture. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, ricotta, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey-ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with optional mozzarella cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Ground Turkey and Bacon Breakfast Scramble
A savory breakfast skillet that’s packed with protein and flavor, perfect for a keto-friendly morning boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Crack in the eggs and stir until scrambled. Add the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
7. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Green Bean Almondine Casserole
A delicious and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, green beans, and almonds for a perfect meal any time of the year. This easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cooked turkey, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the turkey mixture to the skillet with the green beans and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced almonds.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Carb Turkey and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the tenderness of turkey breast with the crunch of asparagus, all while keeping carbs in check.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey breast and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the asparagus and onion to the pan, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan, stirring to combine.
5. Return the turkey breast to the pan and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory twist on traditional stuffed breasts!
Turkey and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, turkey breast, garlic, and thyme.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the turkey-goat cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Avocado Salad Wraps
Get ready for a fresh twist on classic wraps! This recipe combines juicy ground turkey, creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading cooked turkey on each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of the veggie mixture and a drizzle of olive oil and lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavor without sacrificing your diet with these 20 delicious low-carb ground turkey recipes! From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and chili, to innovative twists like stuffed bell peppers and avocado salad wraps, there’s something for everyone. With a focus on healthy eating, these recipes are perfect for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a world of flavors with these mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
