15 Ground Turkey Recipes for Delicious and Lean Meals

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Ready to add some exciting new flavors to your dinner repertoire? Ground turkey is a fantastic choice for creating a wide range of delectable dishes.

This lean, versatile protein can transform any meal into a delicious and healthy feast. Imagine savory turkey burgers sizzling on the grill, zesty turkey tacos bursting with flavor, or a comforting turkey chili simmering on the stove.

Each recipe offers a unique twist on this nutritious ingredient, making it easy to enjoy something new and delicious every day.

Let’s explore some of the best ground turkey recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your cooking adventures.

1. Ground Turkey Tacos

Ready to elevate your taco night? Ground Turkey Tacos are a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic beef tacos. These tacos are packed with seasoned ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun taco party, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Skillet, spatula, mixing bowls
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 8 taco shells
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped onions
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • Salsa, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
  4. Fill each taco shell with seasoned turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, onions, sour cream, and salsa.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serve with: A side of Mexican rice and black beans.
Drink with: A refreshing lime margarita or an ice-cold cerveza.

2. Turkey Meatballs

Who doesn’t love meatballs? Turkey Meatballs are a lighter and equally delicious alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They are juicy, tender, and can be served with pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, oven
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
  5. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce.

Serve with: Spaghetti and marinara sauce.
Drink with: A glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon.

3. Ground Turkey Chili

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Ground Turkey Chili. This chili is packed with lean ground turkey, beans, and a medley of spices that make it flavorful and satisfying. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a game day gathering.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, ladle
No. of Ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, cook ground turkey over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Serve with: Cornbread or tortilla chips.
Drink with: A cold beer or a glass of red wine.

4. Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Add some color and nutrition to your dinner table with Turkey Stuffed Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory turkey and rice mixture, making them a wholesome and delicious meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey until browned. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until tender.
  3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and place in a baking dish.
  5. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

Serve with: A side salad or steamed vegetables.
Drink with: Iced tea or a crisp white wine.

5. Turkey Meatloaf

Reinvent the classic comfort food with this Turkey Meatloaf. It’s moist, flavorful, and glazed with a tangy sauce that makes it irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl, loaf pan, oven
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Press the mixture into a loaf pan.
  4. Spread ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
  5. Bake for 1 hour or until fully cooked.
  6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serve with: Mashed potatoes and green beans.
Drink with: A rich Cabernet Sauvignon or a light beer.

6. Turkey Burgers

Get ready for a healthier burger experience with these Turkey Burgers. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, these burgers are perfect for grilling season or a quick weeknight dinner.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill or skillet, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, onion (for toppings)
  • Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
  3. Grill or cook in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
  4. Serve on burger buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.

Serve with: Sweet potato fries or a side salad.
Drink with: A cold lemonade or an iced tea.

7. Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in a comforting Italian-inspired dish with Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory turkey and spinach mixture, then baked in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 11

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 package jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 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 skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey with garlic until browned.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, ricotta, spinach, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey mixture and place in a baking dish.
  6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve with: Garlic bread and a Caesar salad.
Drink with: A glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with a lemon twist.

8. Turkey Bolognese

Enjoy a lighter version of the classic Italian sauce with Turkey Bolognese. This rich and hearty sauce is perfect for serving over your favorite pasta, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, wooden spoon
No. of Ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey until browned.
  2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until sauce thickens.
  5. Serve over cooked pasta and enjoy.

Serve with: A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Drink with: A glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lime.

9. Ground Turkey Stir-Fry

Whip up a quick and nutritious meal with this Ground Turkey Stir-Fry. Packed with colorful vegetables and lean ground turkey, this stir-fry is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Wok or large skillet, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 broccoli head, chopped
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a wok or large skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey until browned.
  2. Add garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is well coated and heated through.
  5. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Serve with: Steamed rice or quinoa.
Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

10. Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Fresh, light, and full of flavor, Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a delightful meal or appetizer. These wraps are filled with seasoned ground turkey and crispy vegetables, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Skillet, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 cup water chestnuts, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • Lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey with garlic and onion until browned.
  2. Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add water chestnuts and carrots, and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves and serve.

Serve with: A side of rice noodles or a cucumber salad.
Drink with: A light beer or a refreshing iced green tea.

11. Turkey Enchiladas

These Turkey Enchiladas are a delicious and hearty meal, perfect for a family dinner. Filled with seasoned ground turkey and topped with a rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese, they are sure to satisfy.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Baking dish, skillet
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey with onion and garlic until browned.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning and a bit of water, and cook until thickened.
  4. Fill each tortilla with the turkey mixture, roll up, and place in a baking dish.
  5. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with sour cream and cilantro before serving.

Serve with: Spanish rice and refried beans.
Drink with: A margarita or an agua fresca.

12. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

This Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s made with a flavorful turkey and vegetable filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to perfection.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: British
Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 11

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey with onion, carrots, and garlic until browned.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
  4. Stir in frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread mashed potatoes on top.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy.

Serve with: A side of green beans or a simple salad.
Drink with: A glass of red wine or a robust ale.

13. Turkey Lasagna

Turkey Lasagna is a lighter take on the classic lasagna, with layers of ground turkey, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey with onion and garlic until browned.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
  6. In a baking dish, layer noodles, turkey sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
  7. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Garlic bread and a Caesar salad.
Drink with: A glass of Merlot or sparkling water with lemon.

14. Turkey Sloppy Joes

Turkey Sloppy Joes are a fun and easy meal that everyone will love. These sandwiches are filled with a sweet and tangy turkey mixture and are perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey with onion and garlic until browned.
  2. Stir in ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Toast hamburger buns if desired.
  4. Spoon the turkey mixture onto the buns and serve hot.

Serve with: Coleslaw or potato chips.
Drink with: A cold soda or a root beer.

15. Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

This Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and nutritious meal, perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s packed with lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey until browned.
  2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and sweet potatoes. Sauté for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy.

Serve with: A side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.
Drink with: A glass of apple cider or a light beer.

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