Are you looking for ways to get your kids to eat more protein and enjoy healthy meals? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile and kid-friendly ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic burgers to creative twists on traditional recipes. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious ground turkey recipes that are perfect for kids. From easy weeknight dinners to fun and colorful snacks, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick and simple meal or something more elaborate, our list of 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes has got you covered.
Cheesy Ground Turkey Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Place a portion of the turkey mixture onto half of each tortilla, followed by 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
6. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
7. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Meatballs
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey and vegetables with traditional meatball ingredients, creating a healthier and more exciting twist on a classic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Turkey Burger Sliders
Mini Turkey Burger Sliders: A Delicious Twist on Classic Burgers
These bite-sized turkey burgers are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a fun twist on the classic burger. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can easily serve these sliders to a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Cheese (optional)
– Condiments (ketchup, mustard, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, adding lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and condiments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Hidden Veggie Turkey Tacos
Transform traditional tacos with the added nutritional boost of hidden veggies! This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed zucchini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, avocado, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the ground turkey, chopped carrots, mashed zucchini, garlic, and taco seasoning. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until the mixture is fully browned.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla and topping with cheese, salsa, avocado, and sour cream (if using).
7. Cook time: 20-25 minutes.
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy turkey with melted cheese and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying main dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, mushrooms, or herbs for added flavor
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 ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add breadcrumbs, cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Turkey Hash
Start your day off right with this sweet and savory sweet potato turkey hash recipe. This dish is a delicious combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crispy turkey bacon, and fluffy scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of turkey bacon, diced
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook turkey bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and scramble eggs to desired doneness.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes, cooked turkey bacon, and scrambled eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Rice Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, rice, and vegetables in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, rice, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Meatloaf Muffins
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful and moist meatloaf muffins, packed with turkey, spinach, and savory spices. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these individual portions are easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, spinach, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, ketchup, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines juicy turkey with crispy cornbread, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cornbread mix, milk, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Get ready for a satisfying snack that’s perfect for lunchboxes or after-school munching! These roll-ups are easy to make and combine the flavors of turkey, cheese, and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 slices of deli turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions (such as scallions or parsley)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole wheat tortilla wraps (8-10 inches)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and hummus until smooth.
2. Lay out a tortilla wrap and spread about 1/4 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture down the center of the wrap.
3. Arrange 2 slices of turkey breast on top of the cream cheese.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the turkey.
5. Add chopped green onions on top of the cheese.
6. Roll up the wrap tightly, starting from one end.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wraps.
Cooking Time: None needed! These roll-ups are perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Turkey and Macaroni Bake
This recipe combines tender turkey, al dente macaroni, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the turkey, onion, and garlic in a skillet until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, turkey mixture, milk, cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful fritters packed with turkey, zucchini, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated zucchini, panko breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Meatballs
These bite-sized meatballs are a perfect blend of turkey, carrots, and savory spices, making them a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture 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.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender turkey breast with crunchy broccoli and savory sauces. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the comfort of turkey and cheese with the classic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of shepherd’s pie with the savory taste of turkey and sweet potatoes, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mashed potatoes (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (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 with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the sweet potatoes, peas and carrots, chicken broth, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the filling is hot and the topping is golden brown.
Mashed Potatoes Recipe:
– Boil 2-3 large potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
Turkey and Pea Pasta
This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey, peas, and pasta for a satisfying and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 1 lb. ground turkey
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in frozen peas, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and turkey mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
These savory empanadas combine the flavors of roasted turkey, melted cheese, and flaky pastry for a delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and diced turkey.
4. Place a spoonful of the turkey-cheese mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
6. Brush the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
This fall-inspired chili is a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender textures, making it a great option for a cozy night in. The combination of ground turkey, roasted butternut squash, and aromatic spices creates a deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the roasted squash, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and chicken broth. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Turkey and Apple Meatballs
This recipe combines the savory flavor of turkey with the sweetness of apples to create a unique and tasty meatball. Perfect for appetizers or as a main course, these meatballs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup grated apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, apple, egg, breadcrumbs, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious ground turkey recipes that are perfect for kids! From classic burgers and tacos to creative twists like sweet potato shepherd’s pie and zucchini fritters, these easy and fun dishes will become family favorites. Find out how to make cheesy quesadillas, meatball subs, and stuffed peppers – all with the added nutrition of ground turkey. Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these tasty and kid-approved recipes!