There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet full of sizzling potatoes, savory ground turkey, and sweet, caramelized vegetables. It’s the kind of meal that feels rustic and hearty, but still light enough to enjoy any night of the week. With just one pan, 35 minutes, and a handful of simple ingredients, this Ground Turkey with Potatoes recipe strikes the perfect balance between nutrition and indulgence.
Golden-brown potatoes mingle with lean, seasoned turkey, fragrant onions, garlic, and colorful bell peppers—creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner after a long day, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder → Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Balanced & nutritious → Lean protein + hearty potatoes + fresh veggies.
- Customizable → Swap in sweet potatoes, add seasonal greens, or kick it up with spice.
- Meal prep friendly → Stores and reheats beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Comfort food made lighter → All the coziness of a skillet dinner, without being heavy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Start with Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add diced potatoes and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to turn golden.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey
Push the veggies to the side of the pan and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until browned and fully cooked through.
Step 4: Season & Finish
Sprinkle smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using) over everything. Stir well and let it cook another 5–7 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, fold in fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Small dice = faster cooking → Cut potatoes into even, bite-sized cubes to cook through quickly.
- Brown, don’t rush → Let potatoes crisp slightly for that irresistible golden crust.
- Spice it your way → Smoked paprika adds depth, but you can experiment with cumin, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Keep it juicy → If the skillet looks dry, splash in a tablespoon of chicken broth while cooking.
Customization Ideas
- Veggie upgrades → Toss in spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrients.
- Potato swaps → Try sweet potatoes, red potatoes, or even diced butternut squash.
- Protein twists → Substitute ground chicken, lean beef, or plant-based crumbles.
- Heat lovers → Add diced jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
- Special diets → Use cauliflower or turnips instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.
Health Benefits at a Glance
- Lean protein → Turkey fuels muscle repair and supports a healthy metabolism.
- Complex carbs → Potatoes provide long-lasting energy and dietary fiber.
- Vitamin-rich → Onions, garlic, and bell peppers pack antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients.
- Heart-healthy → Cooked with olive oil, this dish stays low in saturated fat.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator → Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer → Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (note: potatoes may soften slightly).
- Reheating → Warm in a skillet for best texture, or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is filling on its own, but you can easily elevate it:
- Top with a fried or poached egg for brunch vibes.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for balance.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up all the flavors.
Why This Recipe Works Year-Round
Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a true all-seasons meal. In the winter, it feels like a cozy hug in a skillet. In the spring and summer, you can lighten it up with fresh herbs and bright vegetables. Its adaptability makes it a staple that never gets old.
Ground Turkey with Potatoes – Recipe Card
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~320 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped
- Optional: ¼ tsp chili flakes
Directions
- Heat olive oil in skillet. Sauté onion and garlic 2–3 minutes.
- Add potatoes + bell pepper; cook 10 minutes, stirring.
- Push veggies aside; add ground turkey, cook until browned.
- Season with paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, chili flakes. Stir.
- Cook 5–7 minutes until potatoes tender. Garnish with parsley, serve.
