10 Ground Turkey Meal Prep Recipes to Add Variety

Did you know that ground turkey is not only a lean protein, but it can also be incredibly versatile in your kitchen? If you’re looking to shake up your weekly meal prep with some delicious and healthy options, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore 10 mouth-watering ground turkey meal prep recipes that will bring variety and flavor to your table, from spicy taco bowls to creamy pasta dishes. Get ready to transform your meals and excite your taste buds!

Spicy Ground Turkey Taco Bowls

These Spicy Ground Turkey Taco Bowls combine bold flavors and wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal that is both quick and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
• ½ cup avocado, diced
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• lime wedges for serving

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Add the ground turkey, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

6. To serve, layer the cooked rice or quinoa in bowls, then top with the turkey mixture, shredded cheese, avocado, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top if desired.

Tips:

• For a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper and chili powder.
• Feel free to customize toppings with items like sour cream or jalapeños.
• This recipe is great for meal prep; store individual components separately for easy assembly throughout the week.
• Using lettuce leaves as a base instead of rice or quinoa makes it low-carb!

Mediterranean Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

This Mediterranean Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe is special for its vibrant flavors of herbs, spices, and wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese.

6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and place them in a baking dish.

7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the peppers are tender.

8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for a different flavor.
• Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the stuffing for extra nutrition.
• These stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking for a quick meal later.

Zesty Ground Turkey and Quinoa Salad

This Zesty Ground Turkey and Quinoa Salad is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a perfect dish for a healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with the chicken broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

3. Once the quinoa is done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly before adding it to the skillet with the cooked turkey.

4. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley to the skillet, mixing everything together gently.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

6. Serve the salad warm or chill it in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for a refreshing taste.

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider mixing in some feta cheese or avocado.
• This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Feel free to substitute the ground turkey with chicken or beef if preferred.

Creamy Ground Turkey and Spinach Pasta

This Creamy Ground Turkey and Spinach Pasta is special for its rich flavors and comforting creaminess combined with the wholesome goodness of spinach.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta of your choice
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Add the chopped spinach and Italian seasoning, stirring until the spinach wilts.

7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

8. Finally, mix in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.

9. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if preferred.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry boasts vibrant flavors and a quick preparation, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cups cooked rice
• sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and soy sauce, stirring well to combine and heat through. Cook for another 2 minutes.

6. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds.

Tips:

• For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to taste.
• You can substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef if preferred.
• Feel free to add any additional vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots or zucchini.

Chili-Lime Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

This Chili-Lime Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps recipe is special for its bright, zesty flavors and healthy ingredients that make for a refreshing, low-carb meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 8 large romaine lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup diced avocado (optional)
• 1/2 cup salsa (optional)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.

6. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.

7. To serve, spoon the turkey mixture into the lettuce leaves and top with avocado and salsa if desired.

Tips:

• For added heat, include diced jalapeños in the turkey mixture.
• Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like cheese or sour cream.
• Leftover turkey filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet

This Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a nutritious one-pan dish that combines savory turkey and sweet, earthy potatoes, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups spinach
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add the diced sweet potatoes and stir to combine, cooking for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.

5. Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet and add the ground turkey to the other side. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

6. Cook the turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7 to 8 minutes.

7. Mix the turkey with the sweet potatoes and stir in the chicken broth and spinach, cooking until the spinach has wilted.

8. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can sprinkle some feta cheese on top before serving.
• Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Casserole

This Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Casserole combines savory turkey and tender cauliflower with a medley of spices for a deliciously healthy meal that’s perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 4 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or spinach to the mixture.
• This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
• You can use frozen cauliflower rice for a quicker preparation.

Italian Seasoned Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats

This Italian Seasoned Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats recipe delivers a delightful mix of savory flavors with a healthy twist, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create boats.

3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the ground turkey; cook until browned.

4. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 5 minutes.

5. Fill each zucchini boat with the turkey mixture and place them on a baking dish.

6. Top the filled zucchini boats with shredded mozzarella cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrients.
• To save time, prepare the turkey mixture in advance and assemble the boats before baking.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese option.

Ground Turkey Black Bean Enchiladas

This delicious Ground Turkey Black Bean Enchiladas recipe combines the savory richness of turkey with the hearty texture of black beans, all enveloped in flavorful enchilada sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 8 tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until translucent.

3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

4. Stir in the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

6. Fill each tortilla with the turkey mixture, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving, if desired.

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture.
• You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if preferred.
• These enchiladas can be made ahead of time; assemble them and refrigerate before baking.
• Top with sour cream or avocado for extra creaminess when serving.