Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a simple and satisfying meal that combines tender ground turkey cooked up with soft, golden potatoes. This dish brings together the mild flavor of turkey and the comforting texture of potatoes in a way that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect go-to for a weekday dinner when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I like to add a bit of seasoning like garlic, onion, and a sprinkle of herbs to bring some warmth and aroma to the dish. Sometimes I toss in a handful of fresh parsley at the end to brighten it up a bit. Cooking the potatoes just right so they’re soft but not mushy is my little trick to getting the perfect balance with the turkey.
This meal goes great with a side of steamed veggies or a simple green salad. I often serve it right out of the skillet for an easy and cozy dinner. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home — easy, wholesome, and something everyone at the table will enjoy. I find it especially comforting on chilly evenings, warm and filling without being heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is lean and mild, making it perfect here. If you want more flavor, try ground chicken or turkey with a bit of added fat. For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they hold shape nicely and get tender. Russets work too but are softer, so watch cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds gentle smokiness and warmth. If unavailable, regular paprika or a touch of cumin alone works well. Chili powder is optional; skip for milder taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh or canned diced tomatoes add subtle acidity and moisture. You could also use tomato paste for a richer flavor but use less liquid in the pan.
How Do You Cook Potatoes and Ground Turkey Together Without Drying Out or Overcooking?
Cooking potatoes and ground turkey together can be tricky because potatoes take a bit longer to cook than turkey, and turkey can dry out if cooked too long.
- Start by browning the turkey: This locks in flavor and helps keep it juicy.
- Add potatoes after spices: This allows the potatoes to cook slowly in the flavored mixture.
- Use a splash of broth or water: This creates steam to soften potatoes evenly without drying out the pan.
- Cover the skillet: Traps heat and moisture for tender potatoes and juicy turkey.
- Finish uncovered to brown potatoes: This adds texture without overcooking the turkey.
Keep an eye on the heat—medium-low is key during covered cooking to avoid burning or sticking. Stir occasionally to cook evenly and prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – great for browning turkey and cooking potatoes evenly without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you stir and break up ground turkey easily without scratching your pan.
- Sharp knife – for chopping potatoes, onions, and tomatoes quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for prepping all your ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey with ground beef or chicken for a richer or milder flavor—you’ll get a different but equally tasty result.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions to boost veggies and add texture.
- Include a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like some heat and spice.
- Top with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving for a melty finish.
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped (or ½ cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup chicken broth or water (optional, for moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. In just about 35 minutes total, you’ll have a warm and flavorful meal ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the turkey is browned and no longer pink.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Stir in the chopped tomato, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder if you want a bit of spice, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything cook together for about 2 minutes so the flavors mix well.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Mix in the diced potatoes, stirring so they get evenly coated with the turkey and spices. If you like, add the chicken broth or water to keep things moist and help the potatoes cook evenly.
5. Simmer Until Tender:
Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring sometimes, until the potatoes are soft and cooked through.
6. Brown the Potatoes:
Take off the lid, turn the heat back up to medium-high, and cook for a few more minutes. This helps any extra liquid evaporate and lets the potatoes brown a little for extra flavor and texture.
7. Finish and Serve:
Give the dish a final taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve hot, with your favorite side like a green salad or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the turkey in the fridge overnight before cooking. Thawing helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Sweet Potatoes for Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a nice natural sweetness and soften slightly faster than regular potatoes. Just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check spices to ensure no gluten-containing additives.
