Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight meals? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from tacos to pasta, and everything in between. And with only one pound of ground turkey needed per recipe, these 20 delicious recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of ground turkey and explore 20 different ways to use it in your cooking. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a pound of ground turkey and get ready to spice up your weeknights with these flavorful and easy-to-make recipes!
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
This flavorful recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the nutrients-rich spinach, all wrapped up in a bell pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, spinach, onion, garlic, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty one-pot meal combines the flavors of ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices to create a comforting and nutritious dinner option. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Add a delicious twist to traditional meatballs with this recipe featuring lean turkey and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for pasta dishes, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, 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.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot over pasta, on a sub roll, or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with roasted turkey, quinoa, and roasted vegetables, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and arugula)
– 4 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1/2 cup roasted sweet potatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together quinoa, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Slice the turkey breast into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the bowls by placing the quinoa mixture at the bottom, followed by sliced turkey, mixed greens, and optional feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy turkey, spicy black beans, and crunchy taco shells for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sour cream for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 the black beans, red bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey mixture into the shells and topping with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, these Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Fresh lettuce leaves wrapped around savory turkey, mushrooms, and cheese make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
2. Add the cooked turkey breast to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the sliced mushrooms over medium heat until tender and fragrant.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a lettuce leaf on a flat surface, followed by a few slices of turkey, some sautéed mushrooms, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time! This one-pan stir-fry combines juicy turkey, colorful vegetables, and savory spices for a tasty dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked brown rice or noodles for serving (optional)
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. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked brown rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Meatloaf
This moist and flavorful meatloaf combines ground turkey with zucchini, perfect for a healthier twist on a classic dish. The addition of tomato sauce adds a tangy and rich flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Top with tomato sauce.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Turkey and Broccoli Pasta
Creamy Turkey and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Looking for a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that’s packed with flavor? This Creamy Turkey and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect solution! With tender turkey, crunchy broccoli, and a rich creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add turkey and broccoli to the skillet. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
This satisfying casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, creamy cornbread, and savory vegetables for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the diced turkey, cornbread mix, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and set.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Greek-style turkey burgers, featuring feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a hint of Mediterranean zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and tzatziki sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, feta cheese, olives, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique twist on classic stuffed shells. Tender turkey and kale filling is nestled inside cooked pasta, topped with a rich and creamy bechamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, kale, onion, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked.
4. Combine cooked turkey mixture with Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey and kale filling. Place filled shells in a baking dish.
6. Top shells with bechamel sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt to taste
Combine butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Turkey and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Transform cabbage leaves into a delicious and nutritious dish filled with savory turkey and rice. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cabbage leaves in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture in the center, and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Place rolled cabbage on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas: A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the hearty goodness of black beans, wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, black beans, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange tortillas on a flat surface and spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey-black bean mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Roll up tortillas tightly and place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
This hearty and flavorful chili combines the savory taste of turkey with the natural sweetness of butternut squash, perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal. With its rich texture and deep flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the creamy, savory combination of turkey, avocado, and melted cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey breast slices
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, cilantro for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
3. Add 2-3 slices of turkey and 1/4 avocado on half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey and eggplant with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying twist on traditional parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in breadcrumbs, then sauté in olive oil until golden brown.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of turkey, then a layer of eggplant slices.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, these rolls are packed with flavors and textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in spinach and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
6. To assemble the rolls, lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat and spread about 1/4 cup of the turkey-spinach mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with a spoonful of the cheese mixture.
7. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze
Turkey and Carrot Meatballs with Teriyaki Glaze: A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these turkey-based bites are infused with the sweetness of carrots and topped with a sticky teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, carrots, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt. 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.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare teriyaki glaze according to package instructions (or use your own recipe).
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with teriyaki glaze. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines lean turkey with roasted cauliflower rice and savory vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Toss cauliflower “rice” with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Serve turkey mixture over roasted cauliflower “rice.” Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with these 20 delicious ground turkey recipes! From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and casseroles, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Try stuffed peppers with spinach and turkey, or a hearty skillet meal with sweet potatoes and black beans. For a quick and easy option, whip up some turkey burgers or meatballs in marinara sauce. These flavorful recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty and satisfying meal in no time.
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