When it comes to cooking for kids, finding meals that they’ll both enjoy and eat can be a challenge. But what if you could make mealtime a breeze by using a versatile ingredient like ground turkey? With its mild flavor and high protein content, ground turkey is an ideal choice for kid-friendly recipes. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to work with, making it perfect for busy parents on-the-go.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious kid-friendly ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From tacos and meatballs to burgers and casseroles, we’ve got you covered. So, whether you’re a parent looking for new ideas or just a foodie who loves trying out new recipes, keep reading to discover your next favorite dish!
Cheesy Turkey Taco Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, cheese, and tacos in a hearty skillet dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 6-8 tacos shells, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring to a simmer.
5. Top turkey mixture with shredded cheese and crushed tacos shells. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Meatballs
These turkey and veggie meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, packed with flavor and texture. They’re perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs, chopped bell peppers, or other desired add-ins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, carrot, garlic, egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
Elevate your meal prep game with these bite-sized turkey meatloaf muffins, perfect for snacking or as a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Moist and flavorful, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 muffin tin liners
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the muffin tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, cheese, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin liners.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hidden Veggie Turkey Burgers
A twist on traditional turkey burgers, these hidden veggie patties are packed with nutritious spinach and carrot goodness, all while maintaining a juicy and flavorful patty. Perfect for sneaking some extra veggies into your favorite burger.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, spinach, carrot, breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
4. Form each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
5. Brush both sides of patties with olive oil.
6. Grill or cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
A twist on a classic, these Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, cheese, onion, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
One-Pot Turkey Spaghetti
This recipe is a twist on classic spaghetti, adding lean turkey and vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole wheat spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty breakfast or brunch dish combines the savory flavor of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all in a crispy hash form. Perfect for a comforting morning meal or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, sweet potatoes, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
4. Transfer the hash to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Garnish with garlic, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy turkey with savory spices and crunchy bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, onion, mushrooms, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender and cheese is melted (if using).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this Turkey and Cornbread Casserole combines the warmth of turkey with the crunch of cornbread and the sweetness of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, shredded cheese, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the cornbread mixture evenly across the bottom.
6. Top with the turkey mixture, then cover with the remaining cornbread mixture.
7. Dot the top with butter and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
These flavorful boats are a twist on traditional stuffed peppers, featuring tender zucchini instead. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Savor the flavors of a classic combo with these easy-to-make Turkey and Cheese Sliders. Perfect for a quick snack or meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (or slider buns)
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice (or slider bun).
3. Place the slices, buttered-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top each slice with a piece of turkey, a dollop of mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Fold the bread in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your lasagna game with these flavorful turkey and spinach rolls! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add spinach and ricotta cheese; stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. To assemble rolls, lay a noodle flat on a surface. Spoon the turkey mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at one end. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Roll up the noodle tightly; place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the rolls; cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Macaroni Bake
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of turkey, pasta, and cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, marinara sauce, and cooked macaroni. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Meatballs
These meatballs are a delicious way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins from turkey and carrots. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer, these bite-sized treats will satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, carrot, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells
A creamy and satisfying twist on traditional stuffed pasta shells, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey, cheese, and herbs for a delicious comfort food meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped parsley, garlic, and marinara sauce to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey mixture, placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese; cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Potato Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and flavorful vegetables in a rich beef broth-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook turkey, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the turkey is fully cooked.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
4. Transfer turkey mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and delicious stir-fry recipe that combines the flavors of turkey, broccoli, and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the turkey and broccoli mixture over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls
These savory pastries are perfect for a quick lunch or snack, filled with flavorful turkey and melted cheese. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent rolls
– 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.
3. In a small bowl, mix together turkey breast, cheese, and butter.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the turkey mixture onto the center of each triangle.
5. Fold the triangle in half over the filling to form a triangle shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Pea Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing Turkey and Pea Pasta Salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the combination of cooked turkey, peas, pasta, and a tangy dressing, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne)
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked turkey breast, peas, and pasta to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cheddar Waffle Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with this unique combination of crispy waffles, savory turkey, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 slices cooked turkey breast
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for waffle iron
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk until smooth. Add dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Cook waffles in batches for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing turkey slices on top of a waffle, followed by a slice of cheese. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including waffle cooking time)
Summary
Are you tired of the same old recipes for your kids? Look no further! This article presents 20 delicious and kid-friendly ground turkey recipes that are perfect for picky eaters. From classic comfort foods like meatloaf muffins and sliders, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes hide veggies in unexpected places, making them a great way to get your kids to eat their greens without even realizing it! Try one out today and see what your family loves.