Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 20 deliciously simple turkey ground meat recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort food to international-inspired twists, we’ve got something for everyone.
Start your culinary journey with our first recipe, the Spicy Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps – a game-changing twist on traditional meatballs that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. Then, try our Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers for a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Spicy Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with these flavorful and spicy turkey meatballs, nestled between crisp lettuce leaves and wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble wraps by placing 2-3 meatballs on each lettuce leaf, followed by a tortilla, and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including preparation)
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Tender turkey, quinoa, and vegetables combine to create a deliciously healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 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.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and remove from heat.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture and top with olive oil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these savory garlic parmesan turkey meatballs, packed with flavor and ease to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey Taco Skillet with Black Beans
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of turkey tacos with the comfort of a skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8 oz tomato sauce
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Tortillas (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 into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with shredded cheese and tortillas, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Meatloaf with Feta
Mediterranean Turkey Meatloaf with Feta Recipe
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful and refreshing twist, featuring the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, feta, garlic, olives, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Add the olive oil and egg; mix until the mixture is smooth but not overworked.
5. Transfer to a loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Add a twist to traditional stuffed shells with the flavors of turkey and spinach. This recipe yields a delicious and satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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 spinach, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey and spinach mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Cups
A flavorful twist on traditional turkey lettuce wraps, this recipe combines the freshness of lettuce with the savory flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/4 cup crispy fried wonton strips (or crushed peanuts)
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger until well combined.
2. Add the diced turkey breast to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
3. Arrange the mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Top each lettuce cup with a spoonful of the marinated turkey, followed by crispy wonton strips (or crushed peanuts) and sliced scallions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines the savory flavors of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. Stir in diced turkey breast and cook until heated through.
8. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with turkey mixture in the skillet.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined and heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, rice, peas and carrots, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Add the turkey mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Pour in milk.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey bolognese with the low-carb, healthy alternative of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 zucchinis
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer.
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 chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked zucchini noodles with the turkey bolognese sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these savory muffins, packed with the flavors of BBQ turkey meatloaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled BBQ turkey meatloaf (see note)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and BBQ turkey meatloaf crumbles.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped parsley.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Note: Use leftover BBQ turkey meatloaf, or make your own by mixing cooked ground turkey with BBQ sauce and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Let it cool before crumbling.
Turkey and Mushroom Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, mushrooms, and zucchini to create a delicious and healthy main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, mushrooms, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini shell with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece on a bun! These moist turkey burgers are infused with Mediterranean flair, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh cucumber slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
– Cucumber slices for topping
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine turkey, feta, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with tzatziki sauce and cucumber slices.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and kale with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup chopped curly kale
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked kale and cooked brown rice.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and place them in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Sloppy Joes with a Kick
Get ready to spice up your classic sloppy joes game with this bold and flavorful twist! This recipe combines the comforting familiarity of turkey sloppy joes with a kick from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, chipotle peppers, and tomato paste to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the turkey sloppy joes on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey, lentils, and vegetables with a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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 onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Picadillo with Olives and Raisins
This flavorful twist on the classic Latin American dish combines tender turkey, sweet raisins, and savory olives for a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, bell peppers, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the sliced olives and golden raisins. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot over rice or with tortillas.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Get a healthy dose of protein and vitamins with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe that combines juicy turkey, crunchy broccoli, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in the soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Meatball and Spinach Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Turkey Meatball Spinach Soup! This hearty soup is packed with tender turkey meatballs, fresh spinach, and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with 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 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add turkey meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Stir in spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Turkey and Cornbread Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe is a perfect blend of fall flavors, combining the comfort of cornbread with the savory taste of turkey and the natural sweetness of acorn squash.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squash (about 1 lb each)
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked turkey, cornbread mix, cheese, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each squash half with the turkey-cornbread mixture, dividing it evenly between both halves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouth-watering turkey ground meat recipes! From spicy meatball wraps to Mediterranean-inspired meatloaf, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try turkey and quinoa stuffed peppers or garlic parmesan meatballs for a flavorful twist on classic comfort food. For a Mexican fiesta vibe, whip up some turkey tacos with black beans or go Greek-style with burgers and tzatziki sauce. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has got you covered with simple yet scrumptious recipe ideas.
Leave a Reply