If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and incredibly flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that balances lean protein with tender, golden potatoes all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, this dish promises satisfying flavors delivered in a way that’s simple yet delightfully cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s incredible harmony—adding texture, flavor, and a pleasing aroma that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1 pound ground turkey: The lean protein base that cooks up light but holds flavor beautifully.
- 4 medium potatoes: Diced into bite-sized pieces, they bring a soft, comforting texture and absorb spices perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes to a lovely golden brown.
- 1 medium onion: Provides a subtle sweetness when sautéed and enhances overall depth.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for a punch of fragrant warmth that complements the turkey.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herbaceous note that pairs exceptionally well with potatoes and turkey.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: A smoky and slightly sweet spice that gives the dish a vibrant color and flavor boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors and seasoning the dish just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and sharpness to brighten the mix.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist while melding the flavors together during simmering.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Just enough to add a fresh, green contrast and a burst of color at the end.
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes and Heat the Skillet
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small, uniform cubes roughly half an inch each. This size ensures they’ll cook evenly and crisp up nicely. Heat a large skillet over medium heat while you get the potatoes ready—it’s key to getting that lovely golden-brown exterior you want.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Until Golden
Add the olive oil to your hot skillet, then toss in the diced potatoes. Cook them uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so all sides get that perfect golden-brown sear. The potatoes will slowly become tender inside while crisping outside, creating a wonderful texture contrast for your Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics – Onion and Garlic
While the potatoes are sizzling, chop your onion and mince the garlic. Once the potatoes have a great color, remove them and set aside. Without cleaning the skillet, add the onion and garlic; sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn translucent and sweet. This step builds the foundation of rich flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Turkey
Next, add your ground turkey to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Break the meat up with a spatula and cook it thoroughly, about 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll notice the turkey turns a lovely light brown as it cooks, and the aroma intensifies, bringing the dish to life.
Step 5: Season the Meat
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices make the essential flavor punch that ties the potato and turkey components together, enhancing the dish’s cozy, home-cooked vibe.
Step 6: Combine Potatoes and Add Broth
Return the cooked potatoes back to the skillet, stirring everything together gently. Pour in the chicken broth, which helps keep the mixture moist and lets the flavors meld during simmering.
Step 7: Simmer and Finish
Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the potatoes soak up some of the broth and seasoning, and allows the turkey flavors to deepen. When ready, sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and a fresh herbal touch to contrast the rich, warm flavors of the dish. You can also add a few grinds of black pepper or a dollop of sour cream if you want to add creaminess.
Side Dishes
This Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp mixed greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the heartiness. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also make wonderful vegetable sides that add color and texture to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dish inside baked bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes for a festive meal presentation. You could also plate it over a bed of creamy polenta or rice to soak up all the delicious juices. Presentation matters, and these ideas elevate the humble ingredients to something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers can taste even better. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a great candidate for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the ground turkey and potatoes gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. This keeps the potatoes tender and the turkey juicy. Alternatively, use a microwave and cover loosely to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different potatoes for this Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon gold or red potatoes are great choices as they hold their shape well and develop nice texture. Russets can work but may turn fluffier and less firm.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. All other ingredients are naturally free of gluten.
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Definitely. Ground chicken, beef, or even pork can be used if you want a different flavor or texture. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How spicy is this Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe?
This recipe isn’t spicy by default, as paprika used is mild and no hot spices are included. You can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you want a bit of heat.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge and freezer and reheats nicely, making it ideal for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe is one of those comforting, dependable dishes that quickly become a family favorite. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels both nourishing and satisfying every single time. I’m confident that once you try it, it will have a place on your regular rotation for easy, tasty home-cooked meals. Give it a go and enjoy every cozy bite!
Print
Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful ground turkey skillet dish with golden-browned potatoes, seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, and thyme, simmered in chicken broth for a comforting one-pan meal perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the potatoes and turkey.
- Prepare potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes, about 1/2 inch each, ensuring even cooking.
- Cook potatoes: Add the olive oil to the heated skillet and cook the diced potatoes for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Prepare aromatics: While the potatoes cook, chop the onion finely and mince the garlic to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Remove the browned potatoes from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook thoroughly for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink.
- Season the turkey: Stir in dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper to evenly season the meat and aromatics.
- Combine potatoes and liquid: Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the turkey mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and mix everything together evenly.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and potatoes to soften slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the hearty ground turkey and potato skillet hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic.
- You can substitute sweet potatoes for a different twist and slightly sweeter flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth amount or cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on stovetop or microwave.
