Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a simple and hearty dish that combines flavorful ground turkey with tender, golden potatoes. It’s a classic comfort meal that feels just like home, with a nice balance of protein and starch all in one pan.
I love how easy this recipe is to make, especially when I’m looking for something quick but satisfying. Cooking the ground turkey until it’s nicely browned and pairing it with soft, crispy potatoes gives the dish a great mix of textures. I like adding a bit of seasoning or fresh herbs to brighten it up without making it complicated.
This dish is perfect served with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to keep things light. Whenever I make it, everyone always asks for seconds, probably because it’s so cozy and filling without being too heavy. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat cooks quickly and keeps the dish light. If you want more flavor, try ground chicken or lean ground beef. For a vegetarian option, cooked lentils work well too.
Potatoes: I use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold because they hold their shape nicely. If you prefer a softer texture, russet potatoes are great, but cook a little longer to get them tender.
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin add warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can help. Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and flavor while cooking the potatoes. Vegetable broth or water works fine if you want to keep it simple or vegetarian.
How Can I Cook Potatoes So They Stay Tender but Not Mushy?
Potatoes can be tricky. To get the perfect tenderness without falling apart, follow these tips:
- Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- Add the potatoes after browning the turkey and spices to ensure they soak up the flavors.
- Use a lid to simmer gently, which helps the potatoes cook through without drying out.
- Stir occasionally but gently to avoid breaking them.
- If the liquid evaporates too fast and potatoes aren’t soft yet, add a bit more broth or water.
These steps will give you tender potatoes that keep their shape and blend beautifully with the ground turkey.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning turkey and cooking potatoes evenly in one pan.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut potatoes and onions quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – protects your countertop and gives you a stable surface to chop on.
- Spoon or spatula – for breaking up the turkey and stirring the mixture without scratching the pan.
- Lid for skillet – traps heat and moisture to cook potatoes thoroughly and keep them tender.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or beef for a slightly different taste and texture.
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots when cooking onions for more color and sweetness.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn near the end for a touch of sweetness and extra veggies.
- Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving for extra creaminess.
Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a slight heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to cook, including time to brown the turkey and simmer the potatoes until tender. In about 35-40 minutes total, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for around 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds more until you can smell its aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it turns brown and pink is no longer visible, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add Spices and Potatoes:
Stir in smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well so the turkey is evenly coated with the spices. Then add the cubed potatoes and toss everything together.
4. Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender:
Pour the chicken broth or water into the skillet. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it looks dry while cooking, add a little more broth or water to keep things moist.
5. Finish and Garnish:
Once the potatoes are soft, remove the lid, raise the heat a little, and cook for a few more minutes to evaporate any extra liquid, stirring gently. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped fresh herbs on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your warm Ground Turkey with Potatoes and enjoy this simple, comforting, and delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground turkey in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Using frozen turkey straight from the freezer can cause uneven cooking.
Can I Substitute Potatoes with Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and extra nutrients. Just note they may cook a bit faster, so check for tenderness earlier during simmering.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated all the way through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground turkey with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute for a tasty vegetarian version. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to boost flavor.
