Ground Turkey with Potatoes: A Hearty Skillet Classic

This Ground Turkey with Potatoes skillet is a one-pan wonder — hearty, budget-friendly, and loaded with flavor. Tender golden potatoes and seasoned ground turkey are sautéed with onions, peppers, and warm spices, then finished with fresh herbs for a rustic meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday meal prep, this dish delivers protein, carbs, and veggies in one skillet. No fuss, no complicated steps — just a cozy, filling dinner that’s ready in under 40 minutes.

Whether served on its own, with eggs for brunch, or inside a tortilla as a taco filling, this recipe is endlessly versatile and always delicious.

Ingredients Overview

Every element in this skillet adds substance, flavor, or texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Turkey

Lean but flavorful, 93% lean ground turkey works best — it has enough fat to stay juicy without being greasy.

Substitutions:

• Ground chicken, beef, or pork

• Plant-based ground meat

• Diced cooked sausage or chorizo for added spice

Tip: Season it well — turkey is mild and absorbs flavor beautifully.

Potatoes

Use Yukon Golds, red potatoes, or Russets:

• Yukon Golds: Buttery and hold their shape

• Red potatoes: Waxy and quick-cooking

• Russets: Softer texture, can break down slightly for a hash-like feel

Dice them into ½-inch cubes for even browning and faster cooking.

Onion & Bell Pepper

Aromatics that build the flavor base:

• Yellow onion adds sweetness and depth

• Bell peppers (red, green, or orange) provide sweetness, color, and crunch

Dice small for quicker sautéing and better texture.

Garlic & Seasonings

A few pantry staples bring this skillet to life:

• Garlic (2–3 cloves) – for a savory punch

• Smoked paprika – adds warmth and depth

• Ground cumin – enhances the savory, earthy notes

• Oregano – gives it a rustic herbaceous finish

• Red pepper flakes – optional for a touch of heat

• Salt & black pepper – essential

Olive Oil

Used for sautéing — choose a neutral oil or olive oil for added richness and flavor.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

Top with parsley, cilantro, or even chopped green onions to brighten the dish before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add 3 cups diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and just fork-tender.

Tip: Cover the skillet with a lid for 3–4 minutes to steam the potatoes for faster cooking, then uncover to crisp.

Remove potatoes and set aside.

2. Sauté Onion and Peppers

In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if needed. Sauté:

• 1 diced onion

• 1 diced bell pepper

Cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and beginning to brown.

Add 3 minced garlic cloves, cook for 30 seconds.

3. Brown the Ground Turkey

Add 1 lb ground turkey to the skillet.

Break it up with a spoon and cook for 6–8 minutes, until no longer pink and slightly browned.

Season with:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Stir and let the spices toast for 1–2 minutes.

4. Combine with Potatoes

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet.

Stir everything together and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to crisp slightly.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Finish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a squeeze of lime.

Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

• Make it cheesy: Top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack and broil until bubbly.

• Egg-topped brunch: Crack in a few eggs and cover until set for a skillet hash.

• Mexican twist: Add taco seasoning and serve in tortillas with salsa and avocado.

• Low-carb version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or diced zucchini.

• Southwest-style: Add black beans, corn, and chili powder.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This skillet is satisfying on its own, but can also be dressed up for different meals:

• With eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch

• With a side salad for a light, balanced dinner

• As taco or burrito filling

• Over rice or quinoa for a grain bowl twist

• With hot sauce, avocado, or sour cream for added richness

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners

• Meal prepping (lasts up to 4 days in the fridge)

• Brunch with friends

• One-skillet family meals

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish offers:

• Lean protein from turkey

• Complex carbs from potatoes

• Vegetables for fiber and vitamins

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

To make it lighter:

• Use extra-lean turkey (99%)

• Cook with less oil

• Add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms

Each serving is balanced, filling, and made from real, whole ingredients.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes?

A1: Absolutely! They add a slight sweetness and boost in vitamin A. Dice the same size and cook just like regular potatoes.

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Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?

A2: Yes. Use lentils, beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute in place of the turkey.

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Q3: Can I make it ahead?

A3: Definitely. It reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Q4: What if my potatoes aren’t cooking through?

A4: Make sure they’re diced small (½-inch) and try covering the skillet for a few minutes to steam them until tender before browning.

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Q5: How do I make it spicy?

A5: Add more red pepper flakes, jalapeños, chipotle powder, or serve with hot sauce.

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Q6: Can I freeze this dish?

A6: Yes, but the texture of potatoes may change slightly. Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or oil.

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Q7: What other seasonings work?

A7: Try Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or taco seasoning to switch up the flavor profile.

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