20 Super Easy 20-Minute Ground Turkey Recipes for Busy Families

20 Super Easy 20-Minute Ground Turkey Recipes for Busy Families

ByRuby Grace

Finding healthy meals for your family on busy weeknights can be hard. You want something quick, but you also want it to be good for everyone. Ground turkey is a great answer to this problem.

Ground turkey is a lean protein. This means it helps your body feel full and strong without a lot of extra fat. It is also very mild in taste. This means it can soak up the flavors of almost any spice or sauce you like. You can use it in place of ground beef in many recipes to make them a little lighter.

We have collected over 20 original and tasty recipes that all use ground turkey. The best part? Every single one of these dinners can be on your table in 20 minutes or less. Let’s get cooking

Quick and Healthy Skillet Dinners

These one pan meals are perfect for busy nights. You cook everything in one skillet, which means more time with your family and less time cleaning up.

1. Speedy Turkey and Black Bean Skillet

This recipe is a complete meal in one pan. It is packed with protein and fiber from the beans and has a bold, smoky flavor.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped into small pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until it softens.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the turkey into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until it is no longer pink.
  3. Add the chopped garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for one minute. You will smell a wonderful aroma.
  4. Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the broth. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a low bubble.
  5. Turn the heat down to medium low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and the sauce get a little thicker.
  6. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as you like. Serve it warm in bowls with your favorite toppings.

2. One Pan Unstuffed Turkey Peppers

This dish has all the great taste of stuffed bell peppers but without all the work. You cook everything in one pan for a simple and delicious dinner.

Prep time: 7 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers (any color you like), chopped into small pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Drain off any extra liquid if needed.
  3. Stir in the chopped garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for one more minute.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, the cooked rice, and the broth. Stir to combine everything. Let it come to a simmer.
  5. Turn the heat down, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This lets the peppers become tender.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Put the lid back on and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The cheese will melt and become bubbly.
  7. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot right from the skillet.

3. Creamy Tomato and Turkey Pasta

This is a rich and comforting pasta dish that feels like it simmered for hours, but it is ready in the time it takes to boil water.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta (or any short pasta you have)
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the directions on the box. When it is done, drain it, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
  4. Stir in the garlic, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Cook for one minute.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring it to a simmer, then turn the heat down and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is covered in sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the saved pasta water.
  8. Serve right away, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

4. Greek Turkey and Rice Skillet

This recipe brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. The feta cheese and lemon make it feel light and special.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Juice from 1/2 a lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet that has a lid over medium high heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
  3. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and dill. Cook for one more minute.
  4. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it around for a minute so it gets coated in the flavors.
  5. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. Then, turn the heat down to low, put the lid on, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and have soaked up all the liquid.
  6. Take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon juice.
  7. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Use a fork to fluff the rice and serve it right away.

5. Hearty 20 Minute Turkey Chili

Chili is a classic comfort food. This version uses ground turkey to make it a little lighter, but it is still full of flavor and very satisfying.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans or black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with the juice
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until they soften, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Break it up with your spoon as it cooks. Drain off any extra liquid.
  3. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant.
  4. Add the beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
  5. Turn the heat down and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir it every so often.
  6. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the chili hot in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

Global Inspired Turkey Bowls and Stir Fries

Take your taste buds on a trip around the world with these fast and flavorful meals. They are all served in a bowl for an easy and fun dinner.

6. 15 Minute Korean Turkey Bowl

This recipe is bursting with big, bold flavors. The gochujang gives it a sweet and spicy kick that is absolutely delicious.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 4 cups cooked rice, for serving
  • Optional toppings: kimchi, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, fried egg, sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any extra liquid.
  2. Add the chopped garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for one minute until you can smell them.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang, honey, and rice vinegar.
  4. Pour the sauce over the cooked turkey. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will get thicker and start to bubble.
  5. To serve, put a big scoop of hot cooked rice in a bowl. Spoon the Korean turkey over the rice. Add any toppings you like, such as kimchi, carrots, cucumber, a fried egg, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

7. Quick Turkey and Cabbage Stir Fry

This is a simple and healthy stir fry that comes together in a flash. The cabbage adds a nice crunch and makes the meal very satisfying.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1/2 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, cut into thin matchsticks
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
  2. Add the sliced onion and chopped garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion starts to soften.
  3. Add the sliced cabbage and carrot sticks. Stir fry everything together for 5 to 7 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still have a little crunch.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger.
  5. Pour the sauce over the stir fry. Toss everything to coat it well. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the sauce warms up and thickens just a little.
  6. Serve right away over hot cooked rice or noodles.

8. Turkey and Veggie Fried Rice

This is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. It is faster than takeout and you can use whatever vegetables you have in your fridge.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (day old rice works best)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten in a small bowl

Instructions

  1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
  2. Add the frozen peas and carrots and the chopped garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
  3. Add the cooked rice and the soy sauce. Stir fry everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, making sure the rice is hot and mixed in.
  4. Push all the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space.
  5. Use your spoon to scramble the eggs right in the skillet. Once they are cooked, mix them into the rest of the fried rice.
  6. Serve the fried rice hot right away.

9. Turkey and Bell Pepper Stir Fry

This stir fry is simple, colorful, and delicious. Using a bottled stir fry sauce makes it even quicker, or you can use the homemade sauce from recipe 7.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 bell peppers (any colors you like), thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup stir fry sauce (from a bottle or make your own)
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra liquid.
  2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Stir fry for 5 to 7 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but still have a little crunch.
  3. Pour the stir fry sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is hot and well coated.
  4. Serve the stir fry over a bed of hot cooked rice.

10. Turkey and Broccoli Noodles

This recipe is a complete meal in a bowl. The savory sauce coats the noodles, turkey, and broccoli perfectly.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ramen or udon noodles
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or other chili sauce (optional)
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to the directions on the package. Drain them and set them aside.
  2. While the noodles cook, heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up.
  3. Add the grated ginger and chopped garlic to the skillet. Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant.
  4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are bright green and tender crisp.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), water, and cornstarch until the cornstarch is dissolved.
  6. Pour the sauce over the turkey and broccoli mixture. Cook, stirring all the time, until the sauce gets thick and coats everything. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
  7. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together to combine. Serve right away, with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like.

Fun Twists on Family Favorites

These recipes take classic dishes like burgers, tacos, and meatballs and give them a quick and easy ground turkey makeover.

11. Quick Turkey Burger Quesadillas

This is a fun mash up of a burger and a quesadilla. It is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Kids and adults both love it.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Optional for serving: salsa, sour cream, guacamole

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium high heat until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
  2. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Lay four tortillas out on a flat surface. On one half of each tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese.
  4. On top of the cheese, put some of the cooked turkey, a sprinkle of diced red onion, and a little cilantro.
  5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to make a half moon shape.
  6. Heat a clean large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully put the quesadillas in the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted inside.
  7. Take them out of the skillet and let them cool for a minute before cutting them into wedges. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

12. Turkey and Corn Tacos

Taco night is always a hit. This ground turkey filling is simple to make and has a little sweetness from the corn.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people (makes 8 to 10 tacos)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles, drained
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 8 to 10 taco shells (hard or soft)
  • Your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium high heat, cook the ground turkey until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
  2. Stir in the drained corn, drained green chiles, and the salsa. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until everything is hot and the flavors have mixed.
  3. Warm your taco shells according to the package directions.
  4. Spoon the turkey mixture into the taco shells. Let everyone add their favorite toppings.

13. Turkey Meatball Subs

These are not your grandma’s meatballs that simmer all day. These are quick, easy, and perfect for a fast and filling dinner.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 4 hoagie rolls or sub buns
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the meatballs and cook them, turning them now and then, until they are browned on all sides. Drain off any extra grease.
  4. Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the meatballs. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. The meatballs will finish cooking in the sauce.
  5. While the meatballs simmer, open your hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet. You can lightly toast them if you like.
  6. Use a spoon to put meatballs and sauce into each roll. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Turn your oven to broil. Put the baking sheet with the subs in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch them carefully so they don’t burn. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

14. Turkey and Zucchini Burgers

These burgers are a great way to add some extra vegetables to your meal. The zucchini keeps the turkey burgers very moist and tender.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (or parsley)
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Your favorite burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion

Instructions

  1. First, prepare the zucchini. Shred it using a box grater. Then, put the shreds in a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels and squeeze out as much water as you can. This is an important step so your burgers are not soggy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, the squeezed dry zucchini, breadcrumbs, and chopped dill. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not over mix.
  3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and form them into patties.
  4. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. They should be cooked through and have a nice brown color.
  5. Serve the burgers on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.

15. Turkey and Cranberry Meatballs

These meatballs are a little bit sweet and a little bit savory. They make a fun and different dinner, especially if you like the flavor of cranberry with turkey.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped a little
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (from a can or jar)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped dried cranberries, and egg. Mix gently until everything is combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the meatballs and cook them, turning them, until they are browned on all sides. Drain off any extra grease.
  4. Stir the cranberry sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is hot.
  5. These are great served over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes.

Comforting Soups and Skillets

These recipes are warm, comforting, and perfect for a cooler evening. They are like a hug in a bowl, ready in just 20 minutes.

16. Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff

This is a creamy and comforting classic, made faster and lighter with ground turkey. It is perfect served over egg noodles.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (like cremini or white button)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Cooked egg noodles, for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium high heat, cook the ground turkey, sliced mushrooms, and chopped onion together. Cook until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain off any extra grease.
  2. Turn the heat down to medium. Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup. Let it heat through, stirring often, for about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the sour cream until it is all mixed in and the sauce is smooth. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
  4. Serve the stroganoff immediately over a bed of hot cooked egg noodles.

17. Turkey and Rice Soup

There is nothing more comforting than a bowl of homemade soup. This version is quick, simple, and tastes like it simmered all day long.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any extra grease.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the uncooked rice. Bring the soup to a boil.
  4. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. The rice should be tender.
  5. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if you like.

18. Turkey and White Bean Chili

This is a different take on chili, using white beans and green chiles for a milder, but still very flavorful, dish.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles, drained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
  3. Stir in the cannellini beans, drained green chiles, chicken broth, and ground cumin. Bring the chili to a boil.
  4. Turn the heat down and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring now and then.
  5. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Serve hot in bowls with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, and some fresh cilantro if you like.

19. Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

This recipe is a little bit sweet and a little bit savory. The cinnamon and nutmeg are warm spices that go perfectly with the sweet potato and turkey.

Prep time: 7 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and grated (like you would grate cheese)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the grated sweet potato and chopped onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until they start to soften.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Drain off any extra grease.
  3. Stir in the cinnamon and nutmeg. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes, until it is all hot and the flavors are mixed. Serve warm.

20. Italian Turkey and Gnocchi Skillet

Gnocchi are soft little potato dumplings that cook very quickly, making them perfect for a 20 minute meal. This skillet dinner is pure comfort food.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground turkey and cook until it is browned. Drain off any extra grease.
  3. Stir in the garlic, basil, and oregano. Cook for one more minute.
  4. Add the gnocchi, crushed tomatoes, and broth to the skillet. Stir everything together gently and bring it to a simmer.
  5. Turn the heat down, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. The gnocchi will become tender and cook through.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Put the lid back on and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking with Ground Turkey

Here are some common questions people have when cooking with ground turkey. We hope these tips help you in the kitchen.

Why should I choose ground turkey?

Ground turkey is a fantastic choice for healthy eating. It is a lean protein, which means it has less saturated fat than regular ground beef. It is also very mild, so it takes on the flavor of whatever spices or sauces you use. This makes it very versatile for many different types of recipes.

What is the best way to brown ground turkey?

The key to browning ground turkey is to use a hot pan and not move it around too much at first. Heat your oil in the skillet over medium high heat. Add the turkey and let it sit for a minute or two before you start breaking it apart. This helps it get a nice brown color. Also, make sure to drain off any extra liquid that accumulates while it cooks to help it brown better.

Can I use frozen ground turkey in these recipes?

It is best to fully thaw frozen ground turkey before you start cooking. The safest way to thaw it is in the refrigerator overnight. If you are in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking it from frozen will make it cook unevenly and take much longer than 20 minutes.

How can I make sure my ground turkey doesn’t dry out?

Ground turkey is lean, so it can dry out if you overcook it. Here are a few tips to keep it moist:

  • Do not overcook it. Cook it just until it is no longer pink.
  • Adding moisture helps. Ingredients like broth, tomatoes, or sauce in these recipes keep the turkey moist.
  • In burgers or meatballs, adding ingredients like shredded zucchini or a little bit of olive oil can help keep them from drying out.

Is ground turkey healthier than ground beef?

It depends on the cut. Ground turkey breast is very lean and low in fat. Regular ground turkey (which includes dark meat and skin) has more fat, similar to lean ground beef. For a healthier choice, look for packages labeled “ground turkey breast” or “93% lean / 7% fat” ground turkey.

More Easy and Healthy Recipes

If you liked these ground turkey recipes, you might also enjoy these other quick and healthy meal ideas from Upgraded Health.

  • 20 Easy 20 Minute Ground Chicken Recipes
  • 20 Easy 20 Minute Chicken Breast Recipes
  • 15 30 Minute Mediterranean Diet Dinner Recipes
  • Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Wraps with a Tahini Dressing

We hope these recipes make your weeknight dinners easier, faster, and more delicious. Happy cooking

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