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11 Easy Ground Turkey Dinners For Busy Weeknights

When I started my health journey, one the easiest changes I made was swapping ground beef for ground turkey. That simple switch introduced me to a whole new world of ground turkey dinners that were lighter and just as flavorful as the meals I used to make. From pasta, to soup to unique dishes like my Ground Turkey Shakshuka, I learned how versatile ground turkey is and how easy it is to use in everyday cooking.

Baked penne pasta with melted cheese and ground meat in a glass dish, just like a 5 ingredient baked ziti, garnished with chopped herbs, next to slices of bread, a plate, and a striped napkin on a beige surface.

Since then I have created dozens of delicious recipes using ground turkey. These recipes are easy to make, great for busy weeknights and full of nutrients and flavor. This round up will give you plenty of ground turkey inspiration.

Why cook with Ground Turkey

There are so many benefits to eating ground turkey such as:

  • High in protein and won’t cause your blood sugars to spike.
  • Nutritious and rich in vitamins such as iron, potassium and magnesium.
  • Versatile. Ground turkey can be used pretty much in anything ground beef would go in.

93/7 versus 99% Fat-Free-Choosing the Best Ground Turkey for Cooking

You made it to the meat section and faced with packaging labeled fat-free, 85/15 or 93/7 and wondering what does it all mean?! Those numbers indicate the amount of fat in the meat. If you don’t have to go fat free, I don’t recommend it. Fat equals flavor! For most ground turkey recipes, I suggest 93/7 or 85/15 especially for recipes like Gluten Free Turkey Meatballs or burgers like my Turkey Basil Burger. If you want 99% fat-free, it will work best in soups or saucy things since it’s much dryer.

11 Easy Ground Turkey Dinners For Busy Weeknights

Let’s dig in and learn how to make recipes using ground turkey!

Ground Turkey Pasta and Casseroles

These ground turkey pasta and casseroles are all family friendly, great for meal prep and perfect for picky eaters.

Ground Turkey Pesto Pasta
This is one my most popular recipes- and for good reason! Hearty ground turkey is seasoned to perfection and tossed with fresh pesto, brown rice pasta and kale.
Ground Turkey Pesto Pasta
Close up pic of ground turkey pesto pasta .
Ground Turkey Lasagna Roll Ups
A fun twist to a classic lasagna, these Ground Turkey Lasagna Rolls are high in protein, family and meal prep friendly.
Ground Turkey Lasagna Roll Ups
A close-up of a cheesy turkey lasagna roll up topped with tomato sauce and chopped fresh basil, being lifted from a glass baking dish with a wooden spatula.
High Protein Baked Ziti
Easy, cheesy and delicious- this High Protein Baked Ziti combines lean ground turkey with cottage cheese. Pair with your favorite salad and you're set!
High Protein Baked Ziti
A hand reaches for a plate of 5 ingredient baked ziti with tomato sauce and cheese, garnished with herbs, beside a fork, bread slices, and a small bowl of chopped parsley on a striped napkin.

Turkey Soups and Stews

Who knew ground turkey in a shakshuka sauce would be so amazing?!

Ground Turkey Shakshuka
Breakfast Perfection: Ground turkey simmered in an aromatic tomato sauce with poached eggs. Works great as a breakfast or enjoy as a dinner.
Best Turkey Shakshuka
shakshuka with ground turkey
Turmeric Soup with Turkey and Chickpeas
This anti-inflammatory soup is loaded with protein, fiber and flavor. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Turmeric Soup with Turkey and Chickpeas
A bowl of hearty vegetable soup filled with chunks of carrots, celery, chickpeas, leafy greens, and pieces of plant-based protein, with a spoon resting inside the bowl on a light surface.

Ground Turkey Comfort Food Classics

Ground turkey isn’t just for light meals. Meatloaf and meatballs are classics – pair these dishes with Whole30 Mashed Potatoes, Cumin Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Garlic Turmeric Rice or Dairy-Free Root Vegetable Mash.

Ground Turkey Meatloaf
Italian-inspired flavors and gluten-free panko make this ground turkey meatloaf a must try. Pair with Whole30 Mashed Potatoes for one delicious meal!
Delicious and Easy Turkey Meatloaf (Gluten-Free)
Gluten Free Turkey Meatloaf in a loaf pan being served on a table.
Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs
Great for meal prep! Make as an appetizer or enjoy these turkey meatballs as a high-protein snack.
Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs
gluten free turkey meatballs

More Ground Turkey Dinners: Tacos, Burgers and Stuffed Veggies

Ground turkey recipes are never ending and these are some my favorites.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Turkey Tacos
Naturally sweet roasted butternut squash is paired with savory ground turkey for one unique and satisfying taco.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Turkey Tacos
spooning salsa on top of the tacos
Turkey Basil Burgers
A Mediterranean twist – this juicy ground turkey burger is seasoned just right and served with a warm and fluffy bun.
Pan-Fried Turkey Basil Burgers
turkey basil burger on a serving tray
Ground Turkey and Garbanzo Bean Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a hearty mix if ground turkey, chickpeas, spices and veggies for one protein-packed meal!
Ground Turkey and Garbanzo Bean Stuffed Peppers
close up of Ground Turkey and Garbanzo Bean Stuffed Peppers
Italian Stuffed Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats
Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats make a light yet filling dinner. Packed with savory flavors, this is a delicious low-carb meal the whole family will love.
Stuffed Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats
turkey zucchini boats

Ground turkey is one of the most versatile proteins to cook with. Create meals that are hearty, satisfying and healthy. Save this round up for when you need fresh inspiration on busy weeknights and want something stress-free.

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