14 Ground Turkey Recipes Perfect For Meal Prep Or Lazy Dinners

14 Ground Turkey Recipes Perfect For Meal Prep or Lazy Dinners – your solution for healthy, hassle-free meals any night of the week. When you need dinner on the table fast without sacrificing nutrition or flavor, ground turkey is the ultimate kitchen hero. These 14 recipes transform this lean protein into crave-worthy dishes that work equally well for planned meal prep sessions or those “I don’t feel like cooking” nights. From one-pan wonders to freezer-friendly favorites, each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Say goodbye to boring chicken breasts and hello to juicy turkey meatballs, zesty taco bowls, and comforting skillet meals that come together in 30 minutes or less. We’ve included options for every craving – whether you want Asian-inspired lettuce wraps, Italian-style stuffed peppers, or classic burgers with a healthy twist. These aren’t just recipes; they’re your ticket to stress-free dinners that keep your nutrition on track without demanding hours in the kitchen.

One-Pan Turkey Taco Skillet

This One-Pan Turkey Taco Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean ground turkey, black beans, corn, and spices, it delivers a deliciously satisfying meal without the fuss. Plus, you only need one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

The flavors blend beautifully, creating a hearty and comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this skillet is a go-to for meal prep or lazy dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 avocado, sliced (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro.

Easy Ground Turkey Stir-Fry

This easy ground turkey stir-fry is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its colorful mix of veggies and savory flavor, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze.

The combination of tender ground turkey and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and tasty. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand, making it a flexible option for meal prep or lazy dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the mixed bell peppers, green beans, and broccoli. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Pour in soy sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in green onions. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.

Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Pasta

This creamy turkey and mushroom pasta is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy nights. The combination of ground turkey and mushrooms creates a flavorful, hearty meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip this up in no time. It’s creamy, comforting, and just what you need after a long day.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, cooking until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta with the turkey and mushroom sauce until well coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowls

Mediterranean Turkey Quinoa Bowls offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make mealtime satisfying and nutritious. Ground turkey is seasoned perfectly, bringing a light yet hearty element to your plate. The combination of fresh vegetables, fluffy quinoa, and a drizzle of tangy dressing creates a refreshing and filling dish.

This recipe is super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Just cook your quinoa, sauté the turkey, and toss in your favorite veggies. In no time, you’ll have a colorful, flavorful bowl that is both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Your choice of dressing (e.g., tahini, lemon vinaigrette)

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Cook the Turkey: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Assemble the Bowls: In bowls, layer cooked quinoa, sautéed turkey, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and mixed greens. Top with feta cheese, if using, and drizzle with your favorite dressing.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Mix everything together and savor the vibrant flavors of your Mediterranean bowl!

Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas

These Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. With the savory taste of ground turkey complemented by hearty black beans, this recipe is as nutritious as it is tasty. The combination of spices and enchilada sauce adds a flavorful kick, making each bite a delight.

Not only are these enchiladas simple to make, but they also come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for those lazy evenings when you still want something hearty. Plus, they are easy to customize with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable. Spoon a portion of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Turkey Meatball and Zucchini Noodles

This turkey meatball and zucchini noodle recipe is a tasty and healthy way to enjoy dinner. The meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, making them a great option for anyone looking to make a quick meal that’s still satisfying. Zucchini noodles add a fresh twist, replacing traditional pasta and keeping the dish light and vibrant.

Perfect for meal prep, this dish comes together in no time. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to friends. Plus, it’s low in carbs while still being comforting and delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
4. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
5. Once meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the zucchini noodles, tossing gently to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Savory Ground Turkey Chili

This savory ground turkey chili is a perfect blend of flavors, offering a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to whip up. The combination of spices, tomatoes, and beans creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a great choice for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers that hold up well throughout the week.

With its rich taste and simple preparation, this chili can be thrown together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially when topped with cheese and fresh herbs. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, this chili is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, and garlic. Cook until the turkey is browned and the onion is translucent.
2. Add the bell pepper to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Let the chili cook on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Turkey and spinach stuffed peppers are a delicious and healthy option for a quick meal. These colorful bell peppers are packed with lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a blend of spices, making them both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of flavors makes this dish a favorite among families, and it’s easy to whip up on busy nights.

This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them throughout. They are great reheated and can be customized with your favorite ingredients!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground turkey, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in chopped spinach, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the spinach wilts.
5. Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to keep them moist while baking.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Turkey and Rice Casserole

This Spicy Turkey and Rice Casserole is a cozy comfort dish that combines savory ground turkey with fluffy rice and zesty seasonings for a delightful meal. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that has just the right kick to keep things interesting while still being family-friendly.

Simple to prepare, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you relax or catch up on your favorite show!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Turkey Fried Rice

Turkey Fried Rice is a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining savory ground turkey with colorful veggies and fluffy rice. It’s quick to whip up, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without too much fuss.

This dish offers a tasty and comforting experience, with the savory flavors from the turkey blending beautifully with the rice and vegetables. It’s simple to make and incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you have leftover rice or want to use up some veggies, this recipe is a great way to create a delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, cooking until browned and cooked through. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Push the turkey to one side of the skillet and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
3. Add the cooked rice, frozen peas, and carrots to the skillet. Pour soy sauce over everything and mix well to combine.
4. Stir in chopped green onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Turkey and Vegetable Soup

This Turkey and Vegetable Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with lean ground turkey and a variety of vegetables, making it a nutritious choice that’s both hearty and satisfying. With a delicious blend of spices and a savory broth, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also works great for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a cozy lunch, this turkey soup is a fantastic option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing until softened. Add the garlic and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced tomatoes, potato, green beans, corn, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Lemon Herb Turkey Meatloaf

This lemon herb turkey meatloaf is a fresh twist on a classic recipe. With bright citrus notes and aromatic herbs, it’s not only tasty but also super simple to prepare. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you need a comfort meal that feels a bit lighter.

The combination of ground turkey and zesty lemon creates a deliciously moist loaf, while fresh herbs add a vibrant touch. This dish is great for meal prep, as it stores well and can be easily reheated. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Brush the top with barbecue sauce for added flavor.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Turkey

Stuffed sweet potatoes with turkey are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them a great option for meal prep or a quick dinner.

These sweet potatoes are filled with seasoned ground turkey, offering a healthy dose of protein along with the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh chives, this dish is both nutritious and flavorful!

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Sour cream and chopped chives for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in black beans and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, cut them in half lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon the turkey mixture into each sweet potato half.
6. If desired, sprinkle with cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese.
7. Top with sour cream and chives before serving.

Ground Turkey Burgers with Avocado

Ground turkey burgers are a fantastic option for a quick and healthy meal. They are juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious dinner without the fuss. Pairing the turkey with creamy avocado adds a rich texture and a dose of healthy fats, elevating this simple dish to new heights.

This recipe is easy to whip up and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. You can grill or pan-fry the burgers, and they’re perfect for meal prep or a last-minute dinner. Serve them on a bun or lettuce wrap with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• Lettuce leaves for serving
• Buns or lettuce wraps (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. While the burgers are cooking, prepare your avocado by slicing it and setting it aside.
5. Once the burgers are done, assemble them on buns or lettuce wraps. Top with slices of avocado and any additional toppings you like.

Final Thoughts

Ground turkey proves that quick, healthy meals don’t have to be bland or repetitive. With these 14 versatile recipes in your arsenal, you’ll never stare blankly into the fridge again wondering what to make for dinner. The beauty of these dishes lies in their adaptability – swap veggies based on what’s in season, adjust spices to your taste, or double batches for easy leftovers. Whether you’re a meal prep enthusiast or just looking for simple weeknight solutions, these ground turkey creations will become your new go-tos for delicious, no-fuss eating.