45 Healthy Ground Turkey Recipes for Skillets and Slow Cookers

Ground turkey is lean, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you prefer the quick sizzle of a skillet or the gentle burble of a slow cooker, you’ll find plenty of flavorful options below. Each recipe keeps prep straightforward and nutrition in focus, so you can enjoy dinner without fuss or extra dishes.

1. One-Skillet Turkey Taco Meat

This is the weeknight MVP for speedy tacos, burritos, or bowls. Brown ground turkey with onion, garlic, chili powder, and smoked paprika until fragrant. A splash of tomato sauce keeps everything juicy while lime juice brightens the flavor. Spoon into warm tortillas or over lettuce for a lighter take.

2. Greek Turkey Skillet with Spinach & Feta

Inspired by spanakopita flavors, this skillet pairs lean turkey with plenty of leafy greens. Oregano, lemon zest, and a hint of garlic bring classic Mediterranean notes. Feta adds creamy saltiness without heavy sauce. Serve with whole-wheat pitas or over quinoa for a balanced meal.

3. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Set it and let it simmer for an all-day flavor payoff. After browning the turkey, add beans, crushed tomatoes, peppers, and chili spices to the pot. Low heat melds the ingredients into a thick, comforting stew. Garnish with yogurt or avocado for extra creaminess.

4. Skillet Turkey Lasagna

All the satisfaction of classic lasagna without the baking dish. Break noodles into pieces so they nestle into the sauce alongside browned turkey. Ricotta dollops melt into creamy pockets as everything simmers. Finish under the broiler for a golden, cheesy crown.

5. Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

This colorful hash balances protein and complex carbs in a single pan. Sweet potatoes roast until tender while turkey adds savory depth. A sprinkle of cumin and chili flakes perks things up. Add fried eggs straight in the skillet for a complete breakfast-for-dinner vibe.

6. Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Marinara

Lean meatballs stay moist thanks to the gentle slow-cooker bath. Combine ground turkey with oats, grated onion, and Parmesan for tender texture. Nestle the meatballs in marinara and let them braise until fork-tender. Serve over zucchini noodles or whole-grain spaghetti.

7. Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry

Fragrant basil and a quick soy-fish-sauce glaze turn simple turkey into a takeout favorite. High heat keeps veggies crisp while allowing the meat to absorb the sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lime for freshness. Serve over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for lighter fare.

8. Turkey Stuffed Pepper Skillet

This shortcut skips pre-roasting peppers by simmering everything together. Turkey, rice, and diced tomatoes cook in the same pan, infusing peppers with flavor. A modest sprinkle of cheese finishes the dish without added heaviness. The result is comfort food that still feels fresh.

9. Slow Cooker Turkey Tikka Masala

Trade chicken for lean turkey in this aromatic classic. Yogurt and tomato purée create a velvety sauce scented with garam masala and turmeric. The slow cooker gently tenderizes the meat while spices bloom. Serve with steamed basmati and cucumber raita.

10. Skillet Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Ground turkey lightens up a traditional pub dish without skimping on comfort. Carrots, peas, and corn simmer in a light gravy beneath fluffy potatoes. A quick broil creates crispy peaks on the mash. Spoon straight from the pan for a family-style dinner.

11. Turkey and Zucchini Noodle Primavera

Spaghetti night meets low-carb freshness. Brown turkey with garlic, then toss in zucchini noodles and vegetables until just tender. A splash of white wine and lemon keeps flavors bright. Finish with Parmesan and fresh basil for Italian flair.

12. Slow Cooker Turkey White Bean Chili

For a milder spin on chili, swap red sauce for a cumin-scented broth. Cannellini beans add fiber and creaminess without dairy. A handful of corn kernels brings subtle sweetness. Cook low and slow, then add lime juice before serving for a clean finish.

13. One-Pan Turkey Enchilada Skillet

This dish captures the flavors of baked enchiladas minus the rolling. Sauté turkey with onions and spices, stir in enchilada sauce and tortilla pieces, then top with cheese. Ten minutes under a lid melts everything together. Add avocado slices or a drizzle of hot sauce tableside.

14. Turkey and Broccoli Rice Skillet

Rice, protein, and vegetables cook together for a true one-dish meal. Start by browning turkey, then add uncooked rice and broth so grains absorb savory juices. Broccoli steams on top in the final minutes, staying crisp-tender. The result is satisfying and simple enough for weeknights.

15. Slow Cooker Turkey Bolognese

Hours of slow simmering turn lean turkey into a silky sauce rivaling Nonna’s. Carrots, celery, and onions melt into the background, adding natural sweetness. A splash of milk rounds out acidity and lends velvety texture. Freeze leftovers for quick pasta nights later on.

16. Cajun Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Bold Cajun seasoning delivers heat without heavy fats. Cauliflower rice soaks up juices from the turkey, keeping carbs in check. Bell peppers add crunch and vitamin C. It’s a fast, low-starch option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

17. Slow Cooker Turkey Lentil Soup

Lentils cook to tender perfection alongside lean turkey for a protein-packed soup. Tomatoes, carrots, and spinach bulk up the nutritional profile. A touch of smoked paprika deepens the broth’s savoriness. Serve with whole-grain bread for dunking.

18. Skillet Turkey Pad Thai

Traditional Pad Thai often uses chicken or shrimp; turkey is a tasty alternative. A quick tamarind-lime sauce coats noodles while the meat stays juicy. Crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro on top add classic texture. Adjust chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance.

19. Turkey Quinoa Taco Bowls

Swap tortillas for protein-rich quinoa to keep things gluten-free. Cook turkey with classic taco spices, then build bowls with colorful toppings. Greek yogurt stands in for sour cream, trimming saturated fat. It’s meal-prep friendly and reheats well.

20. Slow Cooker Turkey Ragù over Polenta

Hearty ragù meets silky slow-cooked polenta for ultimate comfort. Tomatoes, red wine, and herbs infuse the turkey with deep flavor. Low heat breaks the meat into tender morsels. Ladle over soft polenta for a rustic Italian supper.

21. Mediterranean Turkey & Orzo Skillet

Orzo cooks like rice but delivers that pasta chew we all love. Turkey, spinach, and briny olives keep flavors bright and balanced. A sprinkle of oregano ties everything together. One pan and 25 minutes later, dinner is ready.

22. Slow Cooker Turkey Pho

The slow cooker extracts flavor from turkey, star anise, and ginger for a light yet aromatic broth. Add rice noodles just before serving so they stay silky. Accompany each bowl with lime wedges, basil, and jalapeños. It’s a lighter take on a Vietnamese classic.

23. Skillet Turkey Shakshuka

Combining North African spices with lean protein, this dish satisfies any time of day. Brown turkey in cumin and paprika, then simmer in crushed tomatoes. Crack eggs directly into the sauce and cover until whites set. Scoop up with whole-grain pita or crusty bread.

24. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Verde

Tomatillos and green chilies lend tangy brightness to this lighter chili. Browning the turkey first adds deeper flavor before everything simmers for hours. White beans thicken the broth without cream. Serve with a spoonful of diced avocado for richness.

25. Turkey Mushroom Stroganoff Skillet

Greek yogurt stands in for heavy cream, keeping the sauce silky yet light. Sauté mushrooms until browned, then stir in turkey and a splash of broth. Dijon mustard and paprika mimic traditional stroganoff flavor. Toss with whole-grain egg noodles for extra fiber.

26. Slow Cooker Turkey Barley Stew

Barley gives this stew a satisfying chew and steady energy release. Turkey, vegetables, and thyme slowly mingle for deep, homestyle flavor. The broth thickens naturally as barley cooks. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but crusty bread never hurts.

27. Skillet Turkey Fried Rice

Day-old rice and quick-cooking turkey make this a speedy leftover makeover. Sauté aromatics, then add turkey and veggies to the party. A drizzle of sesame oil at the end boosts aroma. Serve hot, straight from the pan.

28. Slow Cooker Turkey Tortilla Soup

This soup combines Tex-Mex flavor with hands-off cooking. Tomatoes, turkey, corn, and beans simmer until the broth is richly seasoned. Cinnamon adds unexpected warmth. Serve with lime wedges and baked tortilla strips for crunch.

29. Turkey & Kale Gnocchi Skillet

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi pan-fry to golden edges while remaining tender inside. Kale wilts into the sauce, adding nutrients without much effort. Turkey crumbles soak up tomato flavor and keep things lean. A pinch of red pepper flakes provides gentle heat.

30. Slow Cooker Turkey and Black Bean Burrito Filling

This versatile filling is perfect for meal prep. Turkey, beans, onions, and spices cook together until flavors meld. Portion into tortillas or use over salad for a lighter option. Extra batches freeze beautifully for future fast dinners.

31. Skillet Turkey Picadillo

Sweet-savory Cuban flavors come alive with lean turkey. Green olives add briny bite while raisins supply subtle sweetness. Simmer everything in a lightly spiced tomato sauce. Serve over rice or stuff into bell peppers for variety.

32. Slow Cooker Turkey Meatloaf

Slow cooking guarantees moist meatloaf every time. A mix of oats, milk, and egg gives the loaf tenderness without breadcrumbs. A simple ketchup-mustard glaze caramelizes on top. Pair with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a classic plate.

33. Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells Skillet

Instead of baking in a casserole dish, shells simmer right in marinara on the stovetop. Ground turkey and wilted spinach make a lighter filling than traditional sausage. Cover the skillet so shells cook through and cheese melts. It’s Italian comfort with fewer dishes.

34. Slow Cooker Turkey and Vegetable Curry

Turmeric, cumin, and coconut milk transform humble turkey into a fragrant curry. Sweet potatoes and peas add color and nutrients. Slow heat allows spices to bloom without constant stirring. Adjust chili level to your taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.

35. Skillet Turkey Fajitas

Swap strips of ground turkey formed into quick patties or use turkey breast cutlets. Cook with fajita seasoning until slightly charred. Bell peppers and onions soften in the same pan, soaking up spices. Serve on warm tortillas with salsa and sliced avocado.

36. Slow Cooker Turkey Minestrone

This Italian soup is loaded with vegetables, beans, and lean protein. Browning the turkey first adds depth, while the slow cooker handles the rest. Toss in the pasta during the last 30 minutes to prevent mushiness. A sprinkle of Parmesan ties it together.

37. Turkey & Brussels Sprouts Skillet Hash

Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in a hot skillet, pairing well with savory turkey. Tiny potato cubes add substance without overshadowing vegetables. A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the flavors. Crack eggs on top to poach in the steam for a finishing touch.

38. Slow Cooker Turkey Gumbo

A quick stovetop roux lends authentic flavor before the slow cooker takes over. Turkey sausage and ground turkey combine for depth without excess fat. Okra naturally thickens the stew as it cooks. Serve ladled over rice with a shake of hot sauce.

39. Skillet Turkey Biryani

This simplified biryani cooks rice and turkey together for minimal cleanup. Warm spices like cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon infuse every grain. A handful of peas adds color and sweetness. Top with toasted almonds for crunch.

40. Slow Cooker Turkey Jambalaya

Brown rice holds up well to long cooking, absorbing smoky spices and tomato flavors. Ground turkey keeps calorie counts modest while still providing substance. Bell peppers and celery round out the classic trinity. A final stir of green onions brightens the pot before serving.

41. Skillet Turkey Soba Noodle Stir Fry

Soba noodles cook quickly and bring nutty flavor to the stir fry. Turkey browns in minutes, ready to soak up a soy-ginger sauce. Crisp snap peas lend color and crunch. Toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil finish the dish.

42. Slow Cooker Turkey Potato Chowder

This lighter chowder relies on puréed potatoes for creaminess instead of heavy cream. Turkey, corn, and carrots dot the soup with color and texture. Thyme and bay leaf add subtle herbal notes. Serve with whole-grain rolls for dunking.

43. Skillet Turkey Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi brings tangy heat that pairs perfectly with lean turkey. Quick sautéing keeps flavors bright and veggies crisp. A splash of soy sauce ties everything together. Top with a fried egg for extra richness.

44. Slow Cooker Turkey Moroccan Tagine

Warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and coriander create unmistakable North African aroma. Dried apricots add gentle sweetness that balances tomatoes and turkey. Chickpeas boost protein and fiber. Spoon over fluffy couscous to soak up the fragrant sauce.

45. Skillet Turkey Mediterranean Lettuce Wrap Filling

This light yet savory filling is ready in under 20 minutes. Turkey cooks with garlic, oregano, and a splash of lemon juice. Chopped veggies add crunch and freshness. Spoon into crisp lettuce leaves and sprinkle with feta for a handheld meal.