Are you looking for a lean protein source to spice up your meal routine? Look no further than ground turkey! Not only is it lower in fat and calories compared to traditional beef or pork, but it’s also packed with nutrients like protein, vitamin B6, and niacin. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like tacos or burgers, or you want to try something new like stuffed peppers or meatballs, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering ground turkey recipes that are not only delicious but also Weight Watchers-friendly. From hearty chili dishes to quick and easy stir-fries, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking with confidence.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and explore the world of ground turkey cuisine!
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground turkey with sautéed onions and rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture. Stir well.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Turkey and Black Bean Chili Recipe
Savor the flavors of fall with this hearty and nutritious chili recipe that combines tender turkey, black beans, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook, covered, for at least 20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lean Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Get ready to enjoy a healthier twist on traditional meatballs and pasta. This recipe combines lean turkey meatballs with zucchini noodles for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands 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. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini and cook in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
7. Serve meatballs with zucchini noodles and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, combining the savory flavors of turkey and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked turkey mixture, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
These flavorful wraps are a twist on traditional tacos, using lean turkey and crunchy lettuce as the foundation for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, black beans, bell pepper, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small patties and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves by rinsing and drying them.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a cooked turkey patty onto each lettuce leaf, followed by any desired toppings.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Turkey and Quinoa Skillet
This hearty one-pot skillet recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution, packed with flavorful turkey, quinoa, and vegetables. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in quinoa, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add turkey back into the skillet and stir to combine with quinoa mixture. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Cups
Add a nutritious twist to your usual lunch routine with these delicious Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Cups. Savor the flavors of savory turkey, earthy mushrooms, and crisp lettuce all in one.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together turkey and Dijon mustard.
4. Assemble the lettuce cups by placing a spoonful of the turkey mixture onto each lettuce leaf, followed by some sautéed mushrooms.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Spicy Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the warmth of sweet potatoes, spicy turkey, and crispy textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and turkey mixture. Serve hot garnished with thinly sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey with the creamy texture of cauliflower rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. In a food processor or blender, pulse the cauliflower florets into “rice” like consistency.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet with the turkey. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir-fry until heated through and slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Turkey and Veggie Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, this baked turkey and veggie version is a delicious and healthier alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, onion, carrot, bell pepper, garlic, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender turkey, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables. It’s a satisfying and nutritious meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink.
2. Add the onion, garlic, beans, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki
Elevate your burger game with the flavors of Greece! These turkey burgers get a Mediterranean twist with feta cheese, olives, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, feta cheese, olives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and kale with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
5. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them in half lengthwise and fluff with a fork.
6. Divide turkey-kale mixture evenly among the sweet potato halves, topping each with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this casserole combines the flavors of turkey, eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate skillet, sauté eggplant slices until tender and lightly browned.
4. Combine cooked turkey, marinara sauce, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of turkey mixture, followed by a layer of eggplant slices, then a sprinkle of ricotta cheese.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Stuffed Wraps
These flavorful wraps combine the savory goodness of turkey with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy whole wheat tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine sliced turkey, mashed avocado, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix well.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey-avocado mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Place wraps seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Bolognese
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic pasta sauce, this Turkey and Lentil Bolognese combines lean turkey with nutritious lentils for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground turkey; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
A quick and easy meal that combines the flavors of turkey, broccoli, and brown rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the turkey and broccoli mixture over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This flavorful and healthy stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep. With minimal ingredients, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the turkey strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili
This hearty chili combines the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet butternut squash, and savory spices for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in cooked turkey, roasted squash, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your lasagna game with these flavorful and visually appealing turkey and spinach lasagna rolls. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and 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 spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked turkey mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. To assemble the rolls, lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a surface. Place 1/4 cup of the turkey-spinach mixture at one end of the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll up tightly, repeating with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Place rolled lasagna rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover a collection of delicious and healthy Weight Watchers ground turkey recipes perfect for your meals. From stuffed peppers to chili, meatballs to meatloaf, these dishes are not only tasty but also low in points. Try Turkey and Black Bean Chili, Lean Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles, or Baked Turkey and Veggie Meatloaf. With options like One-Pot Turkey and Quinoa Skillet, Turkey and Mushroom Lettuce Cups, and many more, you’ll never get bored with these healthy meals. Get inspired and start cooking today!
