Ground Turkey Recipes (2024)

These delicious ground turkey recipes are great for sticking to your healthy eating plan, your budget, and more. They’re all family-friendly and great for sharing even on busy weeknights! You can also find Weight Watchers Ground Turkey Recipes on this site to fulfill your healthy eating plans.

Ground turkey is also a nice cost-effective way to meal prep in advance if you like to get ahead with tasks like cooking! Be sure to check out all of our helpful tips and guides below, along with all the tasty recipes we have to share that let you use ground turkey as the main protein without any swaps or recipe alterations.

Ground Turkey Recipes (1)

This recipe post contains affiliate links to products used in the recipe. If you click through and make a purchase we make a commission.

Why should I use ground turkey in my recipes?

Ground turkey is a staple in many kitchens because it is so versatile. You can use ground turkey to make breakfast sausage, burgers, meatballs, and more. It is also a great way to meal prep in advance if you like to get ahead with tasks like cooking.

There are many reasons to use ground turkey in your recipes. First, ground turkey is a great way to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor. Second, ground turkey is very budget-friendly. And lastly, ground turkey is a healthier option than ground beef.

So, if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy recipe to make with ground turkey, be sure to check out our list of favorites below! You’re sure to find a new family favorite.

Is ground turkey a healthy protein?

Yes, ground turkey is a healthy protein. It is a good source of lean protein and it is low in saturated fat. Ground turkey is also a good source of niacin, zinc, and vitamin B6.

Ground turkey is a healthy meat that can replace ground beef in many recipes. If you are looking for a ground turkey recipe, be sure to check out our list of favorites below!

How long do I need to cook ground turkey?

Ground turkey should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pieces of ground turkey.

If you are cooking ground turkey for a recipe, be sure to check the recipe instructions for specific cooking times. And always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ground turkey before serving.

Ground Turkey Recipes (2)

What is the best way to cook ground turkey?

There are many different ways that you can cook ground turkey. Some popular methods include baking, frying, and even grilling.

Baked ground turkey is a healthy option because it doesn’t require any extra oil or fat. To bake ground turkey, simply preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the ground turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fried ground turkey is a delicious option, but it is not as healthy as baked ground turkey. To fry ground turkey, heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the ground turkey is browned and cooked through.

These are helpful options if you want to prep your meat beforehand so you can cut down even further on these already pretty short cooking times in our shared recipes!

Here are some kitchen essentials to have on hand for ground turkey meal prep:

Making healthy meals is a breeze with these kitchen essentials. Keeping things like this on hand makes my life so much easier in the kitchen.

Some things that are great to have on hand when prepping meals like this are a cutting board, sharp knives, and storage containers.

You can also benefit from a good skillet, a kitchen scale, and measuring cups.

Ground Turkey Recipes (3)

Can I freeze ground turkey?

Yes, ground turkey can be frozen. To freeze ground turkey, place it in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to use the ground turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and cook it according to your recipe instructions.

If you want to freeze cooked ground turkey, place it in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use the ground turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or oven.

What to do with a pound of Ground Turkey

The great thing about ground turkey is that you can do a lot of different things with a simple ingredient. You can make your own breakfast sausage, create delicious meals, and cut down on calories. .

There’s no guesswork here, you don’t have to worry about changing out ground beef or chicken for ground turkey (tho, in most cases you can do that without any issues) because that’s what each recipe already calls for!

Ground Turkey Soup with Beans

This easy to make ground turkey soup with beans can be prepped in advance for lunches and dinners throughout the week. It’s a great cold weather recipe that is hearty and indulgent but still easy to make.

Ground Turkey Potato Skillet

This ground turkey potato skillet is great for an easy one pan meal that the whole family will love. It’s simple, standard ingredients so there’s nothing fussy you have to worry about buying or convincing your kids to eat!

Ground Turkey Sliders

These turkey sliders with mushrooms take everything up a notch by using mushrooms to cut down on the amount of meat you use for your burgers. It’s a delicious and healthy way to get more veggies in your diet and also a great way to cut back on more pricey ingredients!

Ground Turkey Pizza

Who doesn’t love pizza?! Ground turkey pizza is a great way to cut down on calories, fat, and guilt when indulging in a lunch or dinner recipe you’d normally reserve for a special occasion.

Ground Turkey Unstuffed Peppers

Unstuffed peppers with ground turkey are a simple and healthy meal…plus they’re a lot easier to make when you don’t have to worry about filling the peppers and keeping them upright for cooking!

If you have a pound of ground turkey and you need to figure out what to do with it you are in the right place. Not only do we have a ton of great recipes for you to choose from we also have this easy guide that you can check out for even more tips, tricks, and ideas!

Ground Turkey Stuffed Potato Skins

Ground turkey isn’t just for meals! You can use it for appetizers too! These ground turkey potato skins are simple to make but they fly off the plate…double the batch from the start, you’ll thank me later.

Ground Turkey Vegetable Soup

Ground turkey vegetable soup is a great twist on a classic that usually uses red meat. This healthier alternative is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and flavor. Everyone will get a nutrient boost without even knowing it thanks to the ground turkey and veggies!

Ground Turkey Potato Casserole

Casseroles are great for the cooler fall and winter months, they’re simple to make and this one is no exception. It’s an easy way to get dinner on the table and a tasty recipe that no one will complain about on those busy weeknights.

Ground Turkey Recipes (4)

Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini

If you need a fun way to mix it up a bit and use ground turkey in a new way, try out this ground turkey hash! It’s quick, simple, and oh so tasty.

Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes

Next to pizza sloppy joe’s might be our favorite way to use ground turkey. It’s a great way to put a smile on everyone’s face around the dinner table and of course, you can feel good about feeding your family a leaner, healthier, more budget friendly meal.

One Pot Ground Turkey Recipes

Don’t miss out on this collection of ground turkey recipes…they’re all even more excellent because they use just one pot. That means less cleanup, less stress in the kitchen, and more time with your family.

Ground Turkey Skillet Meals

If you like making things like hamburger helper you will love these ground turkey skillet meals. They’re quick, easy, and simple to make. The whole family will flip for these new additions to your meal plans!

Hopefully, this list has given you some new recipes to try out for yourself! Make sure to let us know in the comments below which ones were your favorites!

Ground Turkey Recipes (2024)

FAQs

How to jazz up ground turkey? ›

With ground turkey, you need fresh aromatics to season it. Chopped yellow onions, scallions, cilantro, and red bell pepper all help add flavor. So too does the chili powder and minced garlic.

What to use ground turkey for? ›

Ground turkey is our all year favorite for adding lean protein to pasta, soups, burgers. And don't even get us started on swapping it in as a healthy alternative to ground beef, especially when it means we get to eat ground turkey Italian sloppy Joes, turkey feta stuffed meatballs, and bánh mì burgers.

How do you make ground turkey not taste bland? ›

Before you start cooking, be sure to season the ground turkey well with salt and pepper. Also consider including dried herbs and spices for additional flavor. If you're cooking meatballs or meatloaf, pinch off some of the seasoned mixture and cook it in a skillet to taste.

How do you make 99% ground turkey taste good? ›

Enhance Flavor with Seasonings

While ground turkey has a mild flavor, adding the right seasonings can make it truly delicious. Experiment with a variety of herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, or dried oregano. Don't be afraid to get creative and adjust the flavors to your liking!

How to make turkey taste good? ›

Instead of filling your bird with stuffing, fill it with aromatics. (News flash: Cooking stuffing inside a turkey can be dangerous.) The basics, like onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and sage, help lend that traditional Thanksgiving flavor. Take your aromatics up a notch by adding halved lemons or oranges.

What to season turkey with? ›

Stick with salt and pepper, put herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to work, or take spicy Cajun seasoning for a spin for some kick. Whatever blend you choose, spread it all over the turkey—on top, underneath, between the body and wings and legs, under the skin, and even in the cavity of the bird.

How to best season ground turkey? ›

The Secret Ingredient To Season Ground Turkey

There are plenty of easy ground turkey recipes out there. But, you will always need spices like olive oil, kosher salt and pepper, chili powder, and garlic powder. You can add minced garlic, and freshly chopped onions and peppers, for an extra edge.

How do you make ground turkey taste more savory? ›

1. Give Ground Turkey a Savory Boost. To amp up the meat's flavor—but keep it versatile for a range of applications—we added chopped shallot and Worcestershire sauce. Both enhanced the meaty taste of the turkey, while Worcestershire sauce's pungent tang added balance.

What is the best tasting ground turkey? ›

Shady Brook is hands down my favorite ground turkey brand. They are consistent and I always know I am going to get a high quality, good tasting product. I love using it as a mix in to mac and cheese, pasta sauce, Shepard's pie, tacos, you name it, there are unlimited uses.

How do you get the gamey taste out of ground turkey? ›

The distinct game flavor of either birds or animals will be milder after soaking the meat overnight in the refrigerator in either a salt or vinegar solution. 2. Vinegar solution - 1 cup per quart of cold water. Use enough solution to cover the game completely.

What is the difference between 93 and 99 ground turkey? ›

Two types to look for are 93% lean ground turkey and 99% lean ground turkey. The biggest difference is that the 99% version is generally made with all breast meat and contains no saturated fat. However, because it has so little fat, it runs the risk of getting dry.

Why does ground turkey have so much cholesterol? ›

Turkey is high in protein, and relatively low in calories, fat, and cholesterol. But, some ingredients commonly used to cook it add high levels of cholesterol, such as oil and butter.

How do you jazz up a pre cooked turkey? ›

No time to cook? No problem! Even if you buy a preroasted bird, you can still serve your guests a “homemade” Thanksgiving feast by doctoring up the turkey and the trimmings. Glaze a preroasted bird with olive oil and melted butter before reheating in a 375-degree oven for 15 minutes.

How to improve the texture of ground turkey? ›

Ensure Pleasing Texture and Richer Taste

Even 93 percent lean ground turkey—often the fattiest preground turkey you can buy—can still taste too lean and can easily dry out during cooking. To temper those effects, we added 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the meat, along with a panade of milk and panko.

How do you add beef flavor to ground turkey? ›

How do I make ground turkey taste like beef? You can't, really, but you can get close. You do it by adding various umami ingredients, such as fried onions, mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a bit of anchovy paste.

How do you jazz up a frozen turkey burger? ›

Some favorites:
  1. Use common burger toppings, like lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup and mustard.
  2. Stir together equal parts bbq sauce and sour cream and spread over buns.
  3. Top turkey burger with mashed avocado and crumbled goat cheese. ...
  4. Top with avocado and pepper jack cheese and drizzle warm queso over the burgers.
Jul 30, 2022

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rev. Leonie Wyman

Last Updated:

Views: 6352

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (59 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rev. Leonie Wyman

Birthday: 1993-07-01

Address: Suite 763 6272 Lang Bypass, New Xochitlport, VT 72704-3308

Phone: +22014484519944

Job: Banking Officer

Hobby: Sailing, Gaming, Basketball, Calligraphy, Mycology, Astronomy, Juggling

Introduction: My name is Rev. Leonie Wyman, I am a colorful, tasty, splendid, fair, witty, gorgeous, splendid person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.