Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a simple, hearty dish that brings together tender ground turkey and golden, crispy potatoes for a satisfying meal. The flavors are mild yet comforting, making it a great choice when you want something easy to make but still filling. The potatoes get just the right amount of crispiness to add a nice texture against the soft turkey.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly, and it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for me. A little sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices can turn it into something special without much effort. Sometimes I add some garlic or onion to boost the flavor, but you can keep it plain and still get a really good meal.
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a fresh contrast. It’s also great warmed up the next day, which makes it perfect for leftovers. This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone digs in and enjoys a good, easy home-cooked meal together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I like turkey for a lean protein option. You can swap it for ground chicken or lean ground beef if you want a different flavor or texture.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or yellow potatoes work best here because they hold their shape while cooking. Russets are starchy and may fall apart, so avoid those if you want those nice chunks.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a warm, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, try regular paprika or a little chili powder for a bit of heat.
Kale or Broccoli Rabe: These greens add color and nutrition. Spinach or Swiss chard can be good substitutes and cook quickly too.
How Can I Get Crispy but Tender Potatoes in This Dish?
Cooking potatoes so they’re crispy outside and tender inside can be tricky. Here’s my approach:
- Cut potatoes into even chunks to cook evenly.
- Start cooking them in a hot pan with enough oil. Don’t crowd the pan, so they brown nicely.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to brown all sides, for about 10-15 minutes. Covering the pan at first helps soften them.
- Remove potatoes before adding turkey, so they don’t overcook or get mushy while turkey cooks.
This method keeps the potatoes tasty in every bite alongside the juicy ground turkey.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for cooking both potatoes and turkey in one pan without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps break up the ground turkey and stir without scratching your pan.
- Chef’s knife – makes cutting potatoes and chopping greens quick and safe.
- Cutting board – a sturdy spot to prep all your ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots with the potatoes for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Try using ground chicken or pork instead of turkey for a richer flavor.
- Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar or feta cheese at the end for a creamy touch.
- Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to brighten up the smoky paprika.
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 4 medium Yukon gold or yellow potatoes, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small bunch of kale or broccoli rabe (optional), chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. Overall, you can have this tasty dish ready in about 30-35 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Potatoes:
Wash and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until they turn golden and tender. Then, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey with Spices:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground turkey and cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the turkey evenly.
3. Combine and Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the turkey. Add the chopped kale or broccoli rabe if you like, and stir to combine everything well. Cook together for another 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld and the greens soften slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the turkey completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Try substituting the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian option. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you’ll still get that hearty texture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Use Different Potatoes for This Dish?
Absolutely! Yukon gold or yellow potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but red potatoes or fingerlings also make tasty options. Just adjust cooking time if needed since different potatoes can vary in firmness.
