Are you tired of your kids turning up their noses at every meal? Do you struggle to find dishes that they’ll actually enjoy eating? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile and lean protein that can be used in a wide variety of kid-friendly recipes. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got 20 delicious ground turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll share our favorite recipes for everything from casseroles to skillet meals, and even some fun twists on traditional favorites like burgers and quesadillas. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special treat for the weekend, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites. So let’s get started and see what tasty treats we can whip up with ground turkey!
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, rice, peas and carrots, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add the turkey mixture to the baking dish, followed by the cheese sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Taco Skillet with Hidden Veggies
Get ready to spice up your weeknight routine with this flavorful and nutritious Turkey Taco Skillet! This recipe is packed with hidden veggies, making it a great option for families or picky eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas, broken into pieces
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add frozen peas and carrots, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until veggies are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. Arrange tortilla pieces on top of the skillet mixture.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tortillas are crispy.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack or appetizer, and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. With their tender texture and savory flavor, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 mini muffin tin cups
– Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish, cheese, and/or chopped herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin tin cups.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned on top.
5. Allow to cool before serving. Top with your favorite condiments or toppings.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for a chilly morning. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy turkey with melted cheese and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Turkey and Veggie Pasta Bake
Easy Turkey and Veggie Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake is a simple and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of turkey, vegetables, and cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini)
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, marinara sauce, and pasta. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Corn Quesadillas
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these flavorful Turkey and Corn Quesadillas! With the perfect blend of savory turkey, sweet corn, and melted cheese, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, corn kernels, and cumin.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add 1/4 cup of the turkey-corn mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hidden Veggie Turkey Meatballs
Get creative with this innovative recipe that hides finely chopped veggies inside tender turkey meatballs! Perfect for sneaking in some extra nutrition into your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup finely chopped zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, carrot, zucchini, parsley, garlic, egg, and salt & pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to shape into meatballs (about 20-25).
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Turkey and Macaroni Skillet
Turkey and Macaroni Skillet Recipe
A one-pot wonder that combines the comfort of macaroni, turkey, and vegetables in a flavorful skillet dish.
– 1 lb. ground turkey
– 8 oz. macaroni
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, and cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kid-Friendly Turkey Burger Sliders
A fun twist on classic burgers, these mini turkey burger sliders are perfect for little hands and taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 small hamburger buns (sliders)
– Lettuce, cheese, and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small patties (about 1/4 cup each).
4. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a turkey patty on each bun, adding lettuce, cheese, and other toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls: A delicious twist on classic crescent rolls, these sweet and savory treats are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 rolls)
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the crescent dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced turkey and shredded cheese.
4. Place a spoonful of the turkey-cheese mixture onto one half of each roll, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the roll over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Dot the tops of the rolls with softened butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Turkey and Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of turkey with the simplicity of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Pinwheels
A delicious and easy-to-make snack or lunch option that combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat tortilla wraps (8-10 count)
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced turkey, spinach leaves, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Lay out a tortilla wrap on a flat surface. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the turkey-spinach mixture onto the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up the wrap tightly, but gently, to form a pinwheel shape. Repeat with remaining wraps and filling.
5. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the wraps are crispy.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Potato Tot Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, potatoes, and crunchy Tots for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1 cup Turkey Tots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mashed potatoes and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer ingredients in this order: turkey mixture, potato mixture, Turkey Tots.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and savory empanadas filled with seasoned turkey and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, or as a satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and shortening. Gradually add warm water until dough forms.
2. Divide dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired empanada size.
3. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of turkey mixture onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle cheese over turkey, then fold other half of dough over filling to form a triangle or half-moon shape.
6. Press edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry with Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, vegetables, and noodles in a delicious and easy-to-make stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (rice noodles or soba noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return turkey to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with turkey and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Pita Pockets
A flavorful and satisfying snack or meal, these pita pockets are filled with tender turkey, melted cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole wheat pita breads
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the pita breads in half and hollow out the centers.
3. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, cheese, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pita pocket with about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture.
5. Spread a tablespoon or two of hummus on top of the filling.
6. Place the stuffed pita pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Muffin Cups
These bite-sized muffins combine the flavors of roasted turkey, cornbread, and herbs for a delicious snack or light meal. Perfect for game day gatherings or holiday parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flours, cornmeal, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, cheese, turkey, thyme, and olive oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turkey and Hidden Veggie Pizza Rolls
These bite-sized pizza rolls are a fun twist on traditional mini pizzas. They’re packed with nutritious hidden veggies, making them a great option for kids (and adults!) who are picky eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bell pepper, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired roll size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
4. Place a spoonful of pizza sauce in the center of each roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a basil leaf.
5. Roll up each pizza, starting from one end. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Quesadilla Dippers
Elevate your snack game with these tasty Turkey and Cheese Quesadilla Dippers! Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey and 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a quarter of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or ranch dressing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious kid-friendly ground turkey recipes perfect for picky eaters. From casseroles and skillets to meatballs and sliders, these tasty dishes are sure to please even the most discerning young palates. Try making a Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole or Turkey Taco Skillet with Hidden Veggies. Or, get creative with Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins, Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash, or Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers. With these fun and easy recipes, you’ll be the coolest parent on the block!
