Are you tired of the same old routine for dinner every weeknight? Want to spice up your meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile and lean protein that can be used in a variety of dishes, from international-inspired bowls to comforting casseroles. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and easy-to-make ground turkey meal prep recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie or just looking for quick and tasty meals, these recipes are sure to please. From classic favorites like tacos and stuffed peppers to international flavors like Mediterranean meatballs and Moroccan-spiced couscous, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and make meal prep a breeze!
Ground Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with ground turkey, quinoa, and savory spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
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 chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and remove from heat.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture and top with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Taco Bowls with Cauliflower Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines juicy turkey, crunchy cauliflower rice, and creamy toppings for a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Cauliflower rice (see below)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine; cook for an additional minute.
4. Meanwhile, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
5. Cook cauliflower rice in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of water for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute until tender.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked turkey mixture onto tortillas, topping with cauliflower rice, and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Add a taste of the Mediterranean to your mealtime routine with these flavorful turkey meatballs, served in a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, and dill weed in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines the savory flavors of turkey and sweet potatoes with a kick of spice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the heat from the jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook turkey in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Top with sliced jalapeños and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Transform your burrito game with this flavorful and nutritious bowl recipe! Savor the combination of juicy turkey, creamy black beans, and crunchy veggies all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked brown rice
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey breast over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until veggies are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with turkey mixture.
6. Serve turkey mixture over brown rice in bowls. Top with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with this flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic turkey lettuce wrap. Crisp lettuce leaves wrapped around juicy turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mayonnaise, and honey.
2. Slice the turkey breast into thin strips.
3. Assemble the wraps by placing 2-3 slices of turkey on each lettuce leaf, followed by sliced bell pepper, cucumber, and a drizzle of the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assembly only)
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and ricotta cheese inside jumbo shells. The result is a creamy, savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
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 turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg to the turkey mixture; stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Turkey and Veggie Foil Packets
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these easy-to-make BBQ turkey and veggie foil packets. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe combines juicy turkey breast with sweet and tangy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut a large piece of aluminum foil into two equal pieces (about 12×12 inches).
3. Place turkey breast in the center of each foil piece, leaving a 1-inch border around the meat.
4. Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the turkey.
5. Drizzle BBQ sauce and olive oil over the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold foil into packets, ensuring edges are tightly sealed.
8. Grill for 20-25 minutes or until turkey reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of turkey with the earthy taste of mushrooms, served over a bed of egg noodles. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve turkey mixture over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Turkey and Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the heartiness of turkey, making it a perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner. With its Mediterranean twist, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, orzo pasta, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups
Transform classic lasagna into bite-sized roll-ups featuring turkey and zucchini for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey, zucchini, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the turkey is no longer pink.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. To assemble roll-ups, lay a cooked noodle flat, spread 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture down the center, and sprinkle with marinara sauce (if using). Roll up tightly.
6. Place roll-ups seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Turkey with Coconut Rice
Elevate your mealtime with the bold flavors of Jamaica! This recipe combines juicy turkey breast with a spicy jerk seasoning and serves it alongside creamy coconut rice.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk-Spiced Turkey:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
For the Coconut Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and lime juice.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
4. Place the turkey on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook the coconut rice according to package instructions. Stir in butter and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your game with this nutritious and flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of sweet potatoes, the earthiness of kale, and the savory goodness of turkey. Perfect for a cozy dinner or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, cook turkey breast over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and cumin; cook until the mixture is fully incorporated.
5. Stir in cooked kale, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Split sweet potatoes open and top each with a portion of the turkey-kale mixture.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including sweet potato baking time)
Cheesy Turkey and Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of turkey, broccoli, and cheese with a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a warm and cozy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, rice, broccoli, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the turkey-rice mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Soup with Greens
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich turkey, fiber-packed lentils, and nutrient-dense greens. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and collard)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the lentils, chicken broth, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the mixed greens to the pot and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Turkey and Couscous
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this vibrant dish that combines tender turkey breast with fluffy couscous and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the spice mixture. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Roast the turkey for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook the couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve alongside the roasted turkey.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan Bake
A twist on the classic Italian-American dish, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and eggplant with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced eggplant to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of turkey and eggplant mixture, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a spicy twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo turkey and roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add Buffalo wing sauce, cooked rice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
Warm up with this deliciously comforting chili recipe, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This flavorful dish combines the savory taste of turkey with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in roasted squash, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Herbed Turkey and Wild Rice Pilaf
This savory pilaf combines the flavors of herby turkey sausage, nutty wild rice, and fresh herbs for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb. turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice blend according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked wild rice, turkey sausage mixture, and chicken broth in a large bowl. Mix well.
7. Transfer the pilaf to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and flavors have melded.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground turkey meal prep recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try Ground Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers, Turkey Taco Bowls with Cauliflower Rice, or Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. Or, go bold with Spicy Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet or Jerk-Spiced Turkey with Coconut Rice. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and will keep you fueled all day long.
