If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s both simple and full of flavor, this Ground turkey with potatoes recipe is exactly what you need. It combines lean, tender ground turkey with perfectly golden, soft potatoes, all seasoned with a cozy blend of herbs and spices. Each bite brings a satisfying mix of textures and tastes that feel like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ground turkey with potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important for building the satisfying taste, texture, and even a splash of color in your Ground turkey with potatoes. Each element plays its part, whether it’s providing richness, brightness, or a wonderful aromatic base.

Ground turkey, 1 pound: The lean protein star that keeps this dish light yet filling.

Potatoes, 4 medium: Diced into perfect bite-sized cubes, they soak up flavor and add a pleasing heartiness.
Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Helps crisp the potatoes and carries all the seasonings beautifully.

Onion, 1 medium: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic, 2 cloves: Finely minced for a punch of fragrant aroma and subtle heat.

Dried thyme, 1 teaspoon: Brings a warm, earthy herbal note that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
Paprika, 1 teaspoon: Adds color and a lightly smoky flavor.
Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.

Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Offers a gentle heat and seasoning balance.
Chicken broth, 1/2 cup: Creates a bit of steam and moisture to meld all components together.
Fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped: A fresh, vibrant finish to brighten the dish.

How to Make Ground turkey with potatoes

Step 1: Preparing and Cooking the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes and dicing them into small, half-inch cubes — this size ensures they cook evenly and get beautifully golden. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, then add the potatoes. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so they develop a wonderfully crisp exterior without sticking. When those cubes are softening and turning golden, you know you’re on the right track. Once done, set them aside to make room for the next steps.

Step 2: Sautéing Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These humble ingredients are the flavor foundation that brings this Ground turkey with potatoes dish to life. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its intoxicating fragrance — this is where the magic truly begins.

Step 3: Cooking the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the aromatics. Break it apart gently with your spoon, letting it brown evenly as it cooks through in about 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll want to ensure it’s no longer pink so that every bite is juicy and safe to eat. This stage infuses the meat with the already sautéed onion and garlic, creating a deeply satisfying base.

Step 4: Adding Seasonings and Combining Ingredients

Sprinkle the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper over the turkey mixture. Stir everything well to distribute the seasonings evenly — this will lift all the flavors and give the dish a rich, balanced profile. Then, return the golden potatoes to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth for moisture and to help the flavors meld. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and allow everything to simmer together gently for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touch with Fresh Parsley

Once your Ground turkey with potatoes has simmered and melded into a delicious, unified dish, remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh chopped parsley. This adds a burst of green freshness and a mild peppery note, which contrasts beautifully against the warm, savory flavors of the rest of the dish.

How to Serve Ground turkey with potatoes

Garnishes

To elevate the dish even further, consider topping your Ground turkey with potatoes with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the rich flavors beautifully, giving it a subtle zest that feels wonderfully refreshing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the heartiness. Roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed green beans, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the warm, savory elements of the main course.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Ground turkey with potatoes in warm pita pockets or as a filling for soft tacos with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. You can also plate it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up every bit of that savory sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container, ensuring the Ground turkey with potatoes stays fresh and flavorful. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently to preserve the texture and taste.

Freezing

You can freeze this Ground turkey with potatoes for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will maintain its quality for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers either in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir gently. This helps keep the potatoes tender and everything moist without losing any flavor.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are a fantastic alternative that adds a touch of natural sweetness and extra nutrients. They’ll cook similarly but may soften a little faster, so keep an eye on them as you sauté.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely. Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix will give your Ground turkey with potatoes a pleasantly spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute with ground chicken or lean ground beef. The overall flavor profile will shift slightly, but it will still be delicious. Ground turkey has a mild flavor and lean texture that works especially well with the herbs and spices used here.

How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy and don’t stick to the pan?

Use a good quality olive oil and make sure the pan is hot before adding the potatoes. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause steaming rather than browning. Stir occasionally but give the potatoes time to develop a crust on one side before moving them around.

Can this recipe be doubled or tripled for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe scales really well. Just use a larger skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan to allow everything to cook evenly. It also makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Ground turkey with potatoes is one of those wonderfully satisfying meals that feels like comfort food with a light and healthy twist. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and adaptable to a variety of taste preferences. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in so many kitchens. So don’t wait — grab your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy cooking this delicious dish that’s sure to become a regular on your table.