Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

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.