Ground Turkey with Potatoes: A Hearty Skillet Classic

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of sizzling onions and garlic filling a kitchen on a chilly evening. Growing up, my grandmother had a signature dish she’d whip up whenever family dropped by unannounced or when the pantry seemed a little bare—a simple yet deeply satisfying skillet of ground turkey with potatoes. It wasn’t fancy or elaborate, but it carried the warmth of home in every bite.

Ground turkey with potatoes is more than just a weeknight dinner; it’s a dish that symbolizes comfort, thriftiness, and versatility. Across cultures, humble combinations of ground meat and potatoes have sustained families for generations, from picadillo in Latin kitchens to hash in American diners. This version takes inspiration from those homey traditions, blending tender turkey with golden potatoes, seasoned with spices that awaken the senses.

Whether it’s served after a long workday or as part of a casual gathering with friends, this hearty skillet meal invites everyone to the table. And the best part? It’s all made in one pan, proving that simplicity can be incredibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-Pan Meal: Less mess, less stress—everything cooks together beautifully.
• Family-Approved: Even picky eaters love the savory flavors and tender potatoes.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and stretches a pound of turkey into a filling dinner.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap spices to match your taste.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes:

This dish comes together in under an hour, with comforting layers of flavor at every step. Let me walk you through it as if we were cooking side by side.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, toss in the chopped onion. Stir occasionally until it softens and turns translucent—about 5 minutes. The smell of onions cooking always reminds me of cozy kitchens and family conversations. Add the minced garlic, stirring just until it releases its aroma, about 1 minute.
2. Brown the Turkey
   Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet. With your spatula, break it up as it cooks. You’ll notice it go from pink to golden-brown within 7 to 10 minutes. This is where the dish starts to build its heartiness. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring well so every bit of turkey is kissed by the spices.

1. Add the Potatoes
   Stir in the diced potatoes, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring every few minutes, until the potatoes are tender—about 15 minutes. The potatoes soak up the flavorful juices from the turkey, transforming into little golden gems.
2. Toss in the Peas
   Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stirring them in gently. Let everything cook for another 5 minutes, just until the peas are warmed through. Their pop of green color adds brightness and freshness.
3. Garnish and Serve
   If you love fresh herbs like I do, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top right before serving. Spoon the savory turkey and potatoes into bowls and serve warm—maybe with a slice of crusty bread or over fluffy rice if you’re feeling extra cozy.

Helpful Tips:

• Cut Evenly: Dice the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate.
• Spice It Up: Like heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the spices.
• Vegetable Swaps: Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to boost the veggies.
• No Cilantro?: Use parsley or skip the garnish entirely.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes:

If you’re meal prepping, this dish holds up beautifully in the fridge. It’s also freezer-friendly for those busy nights when you need something nourishing in a pinch.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: ~350 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a gentle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn make tasty additions.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until heated through.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy skillet meals:

• Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
• Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato
• Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Casserole
• Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Conclusion:

Ground turkey with potatoes isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Every spoonful delivers warmth, flavor, and the simple joy of homemade comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish will quickly become a trusted favorite in your recipe collection. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

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