Ground Turkey with Potatoes

This hearty ground turkey with potatoes dish has been my go-to weeknight meal for years. The combination of savory lean turkey and crispy potatoes creates a satisfying one-pan dinner that's both nutritious and comforting.

I discovered this recipe when trying to use up leftover ground turkey and potatoes during a particularly busy week. It was such a hit with my family that it's now in our regular rotation, especially on those nights when I need something wholesome but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: Lean and protein packed, look for 93% lean for best flavor without excess fat
• Potatoes: Yukon golds work beautifully as they hold their shape and develop a nice golden crust
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for best flavor
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, yellow or white onions work perfectly
• Garlic: Fresh cloves provide the best aromatic base, choose firm bulbs with tight skin
• Dried thyme: Adds earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with both turkey and potatoes
• Paprika: Brings color and mild smoky flavor, Hungarian paprika works particularly well
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, kosher salt is my preference for its clean taste
• Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best pungent bite
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor, low sodium allows you to control the saltiness
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with color and fresh flavor at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potatoes:

Dice potatoes into small 1/2 inch cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. For extra nutrients and texture, feel free to leave the skins on as long as you wash them thoroughly first.

Cook the potatoes:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add diced potatoes in a single layer if possible and let them cook undisturbed for 2 minutes before stirring. Continue cooking for 8 10 minutes total, stirring occasionally until they develop a golden crust while becoming tender inside.

Prep the aromatics:

While potatoes are cooking, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having these ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and prevents burning garlic later.

Build the flavor base:

Remove cooked potatoes and set aside. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking for 3 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.

Cook the turkey:

Add ground turkey to the aromatic base, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6 8 minutes, stirring frequently until no pink remains. The turkey should be crumbly and lightly browned.

Season the mixture:

Sprinkle the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the turkey mixture. Stir well to incorporate, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromatics.

Combine and simmer:

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, pour in chicken broth, and stir gently to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. This brief simmer allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the potatoes crisp.

Finish with freshness:

Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped parsley. The heat will gently wilt the herbs while maintaining their bright flavor and color.

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My favorite part of this dish is how the potatoes absorb all the savory flavors from the turkey and seasonings. My daughter, who typically avoids meat dishes, always asks for seconds when I make this. Something about the combination of crispy potatoes and savory turkey just works magic at our dinner table.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have on hand. For a Mediterranean twist, add a teaspoon of oregano and finish with crumbled feta cheese. For an Italian variation, substitute the thyme with Italian seasoning and stir in a handful of cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they continue to develop. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness and warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout. Alternatively, microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each interval.

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Perfect Pairings

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. If you want to add more vegetables, consider serving alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli.

The History Behind The Dish

Ground meat and potatoes have been staples in many cultures around the world for generations. This particular combination draws inspiration from traditional cottage pies but simplifies the process for everyday cooking. The combination of meat and potatoes has always represented comfort food across many cultures, from Eastern European hash to American diner classics.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute sweet potatoes in this dish?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and pair well with the turkey and spices. Simply dice them like regular potatoes and follow the steps.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or finely chopped fresh chili while cooking the turkey.

→ Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you're using cooked turkey, skip the raw turkey step, add the shredded turkey in place, and warm it through with the potatoes and seasonings.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Rosemary, oregano, or even dried sage work wonderfully in this dish. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herb combinations.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the dish reheats well. Prepare it as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.