As I stood in my kitchen, the comforting aroma of sautéing onions and garlic danced in the air, instantly whisking me away to dinners shared with loved ones. This One-Pan Ground Turkey with Potatoes is my trusty go-to for those busy evenings when a nutritious meal is still a priority. In less than an hour, you can whip up this hearty dish that marries lean ground turkey with tender, creamy potatoes, creating a perfect balance that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it also doubles as a meal-prep wonder, making weeknight dinners stress-free. So, are you ready to create something scrumptious without a mountain of dishes to tackle afterward?
Why is this recipe a weeknight winner?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This one-pan meal means less mess and more time enjoying your food with family.
Quick Preparation: With just a few ingredients and under an hour, dinner is served without the fuss.
Nourishing Goodness: Packed with lean protein and comforting potatoes, it’s a wholesome choice for any night.
Versatile Flavor: Customize it with your favorite herbs or seasonal veggies, like adding in some green beans or using Herb Roasted Potatoes for an extra twist.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead! It stays fresh and tasty in the fridge for meal prep, alike to my beloved Cheesy Garlic Potatoes.
Family Approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love this comforting dish, making it a sure-fire hit on any table.
Ground Turkey with Potatoes Ingredients
For the Base
• Ground Turkey – Lean and flavorful, making it a great alternative for a hearty protein source.
• Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet add a creamy texture and bulk to the dish.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; enhances both flavor and moisture.
• Onion – Use yellow onion for a sweet aroma and depth.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic provides a rich flavor that elevates the dish.
For the Seasoning
• Thyme – Dried or fresh thyme brings a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with turkey.
• Paprika – Adds warmth; smoked paprika offers an extra layer of flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Vital for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste preferences.
For Moisture
• Chicken Broth – Provides necessary moisture and flavor; go for low-sodium to keep it healthier.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Optional, but adds a refreshing touch and a pop of color for presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into ½-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking. Next, chop one onion and finely mince two garlic cloves. This prep might take about 10 minutes, but it sets the stage for a flavorful Ground Turkey with Potatoes dish. Gather your ingredients close to your cooking space for easy access.
Step 2: Cook Potatoes
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed potatoes to the pan. Sauté them for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl, allowing delicious golden bits to remain in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as they’ll add foundational flavor to your Ground Turkey with Potatoes.
Step 4: Cook Turkey
Next, add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through. Look for a nice golden color on the meat, ensuring it’s no longer pink. This process not only cooks the protein but also combines the flavors from the aromatics.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the sautéed potatoes back to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of dried thyme, and half a teaspoon of paprika along with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a hearty Ground Turkey with Potatoes.
Step 6: Simmer
Pour in one cup of chicken broth, mix well, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the dish to come together. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is bubbling gently and aromatic.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in some freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Scoop generous portions of your delicious Ground Turkey with Potatoes onto plates, and serve while hot. This satisfying dish is sure to please the whole family, bringing comfort to your dinner table.
Expert Tips for Ground Turkey with Potatoes
-
Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor. Fresh garlic and herbs, in particular, will elevate your ground turkey with potatoes.
-
Even Cooking: Cut potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and become perfectly tender within the dish.
-
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the turkey! Overcooking can lead to dryness, so aim for a golden color, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.
-
Seasoning Balance: Don’t hold back on seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your palate for a completely satisfying ground turkey with potatoes.
-
Meal Prep Inspiration: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Store any leftovers in airtight containers and enjoy for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Turkey with Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the potatoes, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The cooked turkey mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s just as delicious when you’re ready to serve it. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply follow the cooking instructions from Step 2 onwards. This way, you enjoy a comforting, homemade dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights, allowing you to savor every bite without the hassle.
Ground Turkey with Potatoes Variations
Feel free to adapt this delightful recipe in ways that excite your palate and suit your dietary needs.
-
Ground Chicken: Swap ground turkey with chicken for a lighter version—perfectly tender and still full of flavor.
-
Seasonal Vegetables: Add chopped green beans, carrots, or bell peppers for more nutrients and a pop of color in every bite.
-
Italian Style: Replace thyme with Italian seasoning or oregano for a flavor twist that transports your taste buds to Italy.
-
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños as you sauté the turkey.
-
Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a hint of sweetness and extra vitamins; simply cube and cook as directed.
-
Vegan Option: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or black beans for a hearty vegan spin that’s equally satisfying.
-
Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded cheese as it simmers for a creamy, gooey finish—try with mozzarella or cheddar for extra flavor.
-
Fire Roasted Flavor: Incorporate canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky undertone, enhancing the overall depth of the dish—perfect for heartier appetites.
These variations ensure your Ground Turkey with Potatoes can be a new experience every time! Looking for more ways to elevate your meals? You might enjoy adding flavors from my Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes to impress your family or trying out my delicious Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a cozy gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring you enjoy every bite of this hearty dish.
Freezer: Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat thoroughly.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. This will keep your ground turkey with potatoes deliciously tender!
Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping; portion out servings and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and nourishing meal anytime.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the comforting flavors of this one-pan dish.
-
Side Salad: A refreshing green salad provides a crunchy contrast, balancing the hearty nature of your turkey and potatoes.
-
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any delicious broth leftover on your plate. It’s the perfect comfort food match!
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or green beans add vibrant color and nutritional value, adding an earthy sweetness that partners beautifully with the dish.
-
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness, making it a delightful companion on your dinner table.
-
Mashed Cauliflower: For a lower-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower is a silky side that pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey and potatoes.
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc adds a crisp acidity, complementing the dish’s flavors and enhancing your dining experience.
-
Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. The hint of cinnamon and sweetness is a lovely contrast to the savory turkey dish.
Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creaminess and texture. They hold up well during cooking and add a delightful bulk to your Ground Turkey with Potatoes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.
Can I freeze Ground Turkey with Potatoes?
Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat thoroughly for best results.
What if my ground turkey is too dry after cooking?
To prevent dry turkey, ensure you don’t overcook it! Aim for a golden color without any pink remaining. If it does turn out dry, simply add a little chicken broth when reheating to restore moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
This dish is a low-fat option, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. However, if you’re preparing this meal for pets or those with specific allergies, always check for sensitivities, especially regarding garlic and onion, as they can be harmful to some animals.
What can I do if I want to add more veggies?
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can easily toss in seasonal vegetables, such as green beans or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and add even more flavor to your Ground Turkey with Potatoes.
Savory Ground Turkey with Potatoes for Quick Comfort Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into ½-inch cubes. Chop one onion and finely mince two garlic cloves.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sauté for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and tender.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Return the sautéed potatoes back to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pour in one cup of chicken broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes with the lid on.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Serve hot on plates.
Leave a Reply