20 Ground Turkey Recipes That Will Make You Forget About Beef Forever

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Ground Turkey Recipes

Ground turkey is a lean and versatile protein that can be used in many tasty dishes. You can make burgers, tacos, chili, meatballs, and more with this affordable meat. Ground turkey recipes are easy to make, healthy, and full of flavor when you use the right seasonings and ingredients.

Want to try some new ground turkey meals? There are lots of yummy options to choose from. You can make comforting casseroles, zesty Mexican-inspired dishes, or hearty Italian classics. Ground turkey works well in many cuisines and cooking styles. Give it a try in your next weeknight dinner for a lighter twist on your favorite recipes.

Turkey Chili

Here’s a tasty turkey chili recipe you can whip up for a cozy meal:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.

  2. Add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is tender.

  3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil.

  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

  6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

This chili is perfect for chilly nights or game day gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding corn, bell peppers, or other veggies you like.

Turkey Meatballs

You’ll love these tasty turkey meatballs! They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner. Here’s what you need to make them:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.

  3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.

  4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned.

  6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta sauce or as an appetizer.

These meatballs are so easy to make! You can even freeze them for later. Just let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Turkey Burgers

You’ll need these ingredients for tasty turkey burgers:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Now let’s make those burgers! Here are the steps:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until just combined. Don’t overmix.

  2. Form the mixture into 4 patties, about 3/4 inch thick.

  3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

  4. Cook the patties for 6-7 minutes per side, until they reach 165°F internal temperature.

  5. If you want cheese, add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

  6. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

For extra flavor, try mixing in diced jalapeño or blue cheese crumbles. You can also cook these in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes if you prefer.

Turkey Meatloaf

Ready to make a tasty turkey meatloaf? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet.

  4. In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.

  5. Spread this mixture over the top of your meatloaf.

  6. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  7. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade turkey meatloaf! It’s a healthier twist on a classic comfort food.

Turkey Tacos

You’ll need:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Taco shells
  • Your favorite toppings
See also  2-Ingredient Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Add ground turkey and break it up with a spatula. Cook until almost done, about 3 minutes.

  4. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the turkey. Stir to combine.

  5. Pour in salsa and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid reduces and the turkey is fully cooked.

  6. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.

  7. Warm your taco shells according to package instructions.

  8. Fill shells with the turkey mixture and add your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your tasty turkey tacos! They’re a lighter twist on the classic beef version but just as yummy.

Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 6 bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 diced onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (optional)

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Cut the tops off your peppers and remove the seeds.

  2. Cook the ground turkey in a pan until it’s no longer pink.

  3. Add onions and garlic to the turkey. Cook until the onions are soft.

  4. Mix in the rice, tomatoes, and half the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Stuff the peppers with this yummy mixture.

  6. Place the peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.

  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.

  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for 10 more minutes.

Your stuffed peppers are ready! Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top if you like. Enjoy your tasty, healthy meal!

Turkey Sloppy Joes

You’ll need these ingredients for tasty Turkey Sloppy Joes:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Hamburger buns for serving

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Add ground turkey. Break it up and cook until no pink remains.

  4. Stir in green pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.

  5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and chili powder.

  6. Mix well and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Serve hot on toasted hamburger buns.

You can add some coleslaw on top for extra crunch if you like. Enjoy your homemade Turkey Sloppy Joes!

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Here’s a tasty recipe for Turkey Shepherd’s Pie:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Brown the turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until veggies are soft.

  3. Stir in peas, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  4. Pour the turkey mixture into a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes on top.

  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Turkey Shepherd’s Pie!

Turkey Lasagna

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty turkey lasagna:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 15 lasagna noodles
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make it! First, preheat your oven to 375°F.

Brown the turkey in a large skillet with olive oil. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.

Mix ricotta, egg, and half the Parmesan in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Add noodles, then ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers.

Top with remaining sauce and cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove foil and bake another 25 minutes until bubbly. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade turkey lasagna!

Turkey Bolognese

You’ll need these ingredients for a tasty Turkey Bolognese:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pasta of your choice

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

  2. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Then add ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink.

  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

  4. While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions.

  5. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over your cooked pasta.

See also  Caramel Apple Dip

This Turkey Bolognese is perfect for a cozy family dinner. It’s lighter than traditional beef Bolognese but just as flavorful. Enjoy!

Turkey Lettuce Wraps

You’ll need these ingredients for tasty turkey lettuce wraps:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 can water chestnuts, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 head lettuce (butter or iceberg)

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha in a small bowl.

  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the turkey and stir to combine.

  5. Add water chestnuts and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until veggies are slightly tender.

  6. Wash and separate lettuce leaves.

  7. Spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.

These wraps are quick to make and perfect for a light meal or appetizer. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy turkey lettuce wraps!

Turkey Taco Soup

You’ll love this tasty Turkey Taco Soup! It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cans kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

  2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

  3. Stir in the beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, taco seasoning, and cumin.

  4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

This soup is so simple to make and feeds a crowd. It’s a lighter version of traditional taco soup that your family will love. You can even make it in a slow cooker for extra convenience!

Turkey Quesadillas

You’ll need:

  • Ground turkey (1 pound)
  • Tortillas (8 large)
  • Shredded cheese (2 cups)
  • Black beans (1 can, drained)
  • Salsa (1/2 cup)
  • Taco seasoning (2 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Optional: diced onions, bell peppers

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

  2. Stir in taco seasoning and black beans. Cook for 2 more minutes.

  3. Warm a clean skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the pan.

  4. Sprinkle cheese on half of the tortilla. Add a scoop of the turkey mixture and a spoonful of salsa.

  5. Fold the tortilla in half. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

  6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty turkey quesadillas!

Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell.

  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  4. Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up and cook until browned.

  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  6. Place zucchini boats in a baking dish. Fill them with the turkey mixture.

  7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted.

Your Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats are ready! Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal.

Turkey Skillet Pasta

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Directions:

  1. Brown the turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  2. Stir in the pasta, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.

  3. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

  4. Sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

See also  Salmon Patties Recipe

This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a tasty dinner ready in no time!

Turkey And Rice Casserole

Here’s a tasty turkey and rice casserole you can whip up for dinner tonight!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 diced onion
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

  2. Brown the turkey in a large skillet. Add the diced onion and cook until soft.

  3. Stir in the rice, broth, and soup. Bring to a simmer.

  4. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.

  5. Remove from oven and stir in the peas and half the cheese.

  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.

  7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your yummy casserole!

Turkey Meatball Soup

Here’s a tasty recipe for Turkey Meatball Soup:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Directions:

  1. Mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Shape into small meatballs.

  2. Bring broth to a boil in a large pot. Add carrots and celery. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. Gently add meatballs to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes.

  4. Stir in orzo. Simmer for another 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

  5. Add spinach and cook for 2 more minutes until wilted.

Your soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty turkey meatball soup.

Turkey Enchiladas

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, green onions

Now, let’s make these yummy enchiladas!

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.

  3. Add the ground turkey and garlic. Break up the meat as it cooks.

  4. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink.

  5. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.

  6. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

  7. Fill each tortilla with the turkey mixture and some cheese. Roll up and place seam-side down in the dish.

  8. Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas and top with the rest of the cheese.

  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  10. Let cool for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your tasty turkey enchiladas!

Turkey Breakfast Sausage

You’ll love making your own tasty turkey breakfast sausage at home! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

  2. Form the mixture into small patties.

  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

  4. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade turkey sausage!

You can also make these ahead of time and freeze them for quick breakfasts. Just cook, cool, and store in freezer bags. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or skillet.

This recipe is easy to customize too. Try adding different herbs or spices to create your perfect flavor!

Turkey And Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions:

  1. Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside.

  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. Add onion, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften.

  4. Toss in broccoli and garlic. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.

  5. Pour the sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly.

  6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious turkey and vegetable stir-fry!