Ground Turkey with Potatoes: A Hearty Skillet Classic for Busy Nights

Looking for a flavorful, filling, and budget-friendly meal? This Ground Turkey with Potatoes recipe is a weeknight dream. Cooked in one skillet, packed with protein and fiber, and made with pantry staples, it’s a satisfying dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes.

Whether you’re trying to eat leaner or just need a no-fuss comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts—crispy golden potatoes, savory ground turkey, and perfectly caramelized onions with spices. It’s endlessly adaptable and ideal for meal prep too.

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Why This Skillet Dinner Works

• High-protein and nutrient-dense

• Simple ingredients you likely already have

• One pan = easy cleanup

• Comforting and family-friendly

• Customizable with veggies, spices, or cheese

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Ingredients Breakdown: What You Need & Why

Ground Turkey (93% lean)

• A lean, protein-packed base with mild flavor that takes well to seasoning.

• Can substitute with ground chicken or lean beef.

Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)

• Hearty and satisfying—Yukon Golds stay creamy, while Russets crisp up beautifully.

• Dice them small to cook quickly and evenly.

Onion (Yellow or White)

• Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.

Bell Pepper (Optional)

• Adds color and a touch of sweetness. Use red, yellow, or green.

Garlic

• Infuses the skillet with aromatic depth—fresh minced is best.

Paprika, Cumin, and Italian Seasoning

• These spices build a warm, savory flavor profile.

• Optional red pepper flakes for heat.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

• Helps crisp the potatoes and brown the turkey.

Salt & Black Pepper

• Essential for seasoning both the turkey and the potatoes.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Ground Turkey and Potatoes

1. Par-Cook the Potatoes

• Dice 1.5 lbs of Yukon or Russet potatoes into ½-inch cubes.

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add potatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and fork-tender.

• Remove and set aside.

2. Brown the Turkey

• In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 lb ground turkey.

• Break apart with a spatula and cook for 5–6 minutes, until no longer pink.

3. Add Aromatics and Spices

• Stir in:

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Add seasonings:

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Cook for another 2 minutes, mixing well.

4. Combine and Crisp

• Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet.

• Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the edges crisp slightly.

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve Hot

• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

• Add hot sauce, shredded cheese, or sour cream if desired.

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Variations and Add-Ons

This skillet is ultra-versatile. Use it as a base for Tex-Mex, Italian, or breakfast-inspired meals.

Tex-Mex Version

• Add 1 tsp chili powder and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.

• Top with shredded cheddar, jalapeños, and avocado.

• Serve with warm tortillas or over rice.

Italian Style

• Add 1/2 cup marinara sauce.

• Stir in baby spinach or kale.

• Top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan.

Breakfast Skillet

• Crack 2–4 eggs over the top during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

• Cover until eggs are set.

• Serve with toast or a side of fruit.

Veggie Boost

• Add zucchini, mushrooms, peas, or spinach toward the end of cooking.

• Great way to use up extra vegetables in the fridge.

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Tips for Best Results

• Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—it helps everything brown instead of steam.

• Cook potatoes first, then set aside so they keep their crisp texture.

• Use a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet for even cooking.

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Serving Suggestions & Occasions

This hearty skillet is perfect as a:

• Weeknight dinner for the whole family

• Meal prep option (stays great in the fridge)

• Hearty breakfast or brunch with eggs

• Lunch bowl with leafy greens and vinaigrette

Pair it with:

• A crisp green salad

• Garlic bread

• Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts

• Fried or poached eggs on top

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Nutrition & Health Notes

This meal is:

• High in protein: ~25–30g per serving

• Filling and balanced: Carbs from potatoes, lean protein from turkey

• Naturally gluten-free

• Easy to adapt for paleo or Whole30 diets (use sweet potatoes, skip cheese)

To make it lighter:

• Use less oil and lean ground turkey

• Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini

• Add greens like spinach or kale

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes work great and add a natural sweetness. They cook in about the same time.

2. Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge. Store in airtight containers.

3. Can I freeze this skillet meal?

Yes—freeze in meal-size portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.

4. What kind of ground turkey should I use?

Use 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and fat. Avoid 99% lean unless adding extra moisture (like broth or tomato).

5. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting soggy?

Cook them first and set aside. Add them back in during the last few minutes so they stay crisp.

6. Can I add cheese?

Yes! Top with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack at the end. Let it melt under a lid for 2–3 minutes.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—if all seasonings are gluten-free and you don’t serve with bread or flour tortillas.

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