Are you a keto dieter looking for delicious and innovative ways to incorporate ground turkey into your meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while staying within the bounds of a ketogenic diet. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of ground turkey.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, we’ve got you covered. Our recipe roundup features dishes like Creamy Ground Turkey and Spinach Skillet, Keto Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers, and Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Casserole – all of which are not only delicious but also low in carbs and rich in flavor.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to take your keto cooking to the next level!
Creamy Ground Turkey and Spinach Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious skillet dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the nutrients of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Savory and flavorful, this recipe combines the richness of ground turkey with the natural sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A delicious twist on traditional casserole, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey with the nutty taste of cauliflower rice. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cauliflower “rice” (see note)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” and turkey; stir until combined.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the milk and shredded cheese. Pour over the turkey mixture and stir until well coated.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with thyme. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ground Turkey Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe combines ground turkey with cheesy goodness for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on the classic wrap, this recipe combines juicy turkey, creamy avocado, and a kick of heat from spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (see note)
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sliced turkey and spicy mayo.
2. Spoon about 1/4 of the turkey mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf.
3. Top with mashed avocado, followed by a sprinkle of cilantro.
4. Fold the lettuce leaves in half to enclose the filling.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is essentially an assembly process.
Note: To make spicy mayo, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before using.
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, veggies, and fiber. It’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the zucchini strips to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Low-Carb Turkey Taco Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the classic flavors of tacos with the convenience of a salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, bell peppers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice.
3. Add the diced turkey to the dressing and toss to coat.
4. Pour the turkey mixture over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Keto Turkey and Mushroom Soup
This creamy soup is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey and mushrooms while staying within the keto diet guidelines.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the diced turkey, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this turkey and eggplant lasagna combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey and eggplant with the comforting warmth of melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish, followed by a layer of cooked turkey mixture, then eggplant slices, and finally shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat process two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Ground Turkey with Green Beans
A flavorful and healthy twist on a classic comfort food dish. This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the lean protein of ground turkey, served alongside crisp green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh or frozen green beans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the softened butter and chicken broth until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the turkey mixture to a baking dish and top with green beans (thawed if frozen).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
A flavorful and satisfying low-carb appetizer or snack that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the savory goodness of turkey and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheese, and garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a hearty, comforting casserole with this Turkey and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey (white and dark meat)
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the cauliflower, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the cooked turkey, peas and carrots, flour, chicken broth, milk, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the filling.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Breakfast Skillet with Veggies
Start your day off right with this hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the best of breakfast and brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs, beaten
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed veggies to the skillet and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Push the veggie mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the veggie mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the turkey is fully cooked.
8. Remove from the oven and top with shredded cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo
This creamy, low-carb recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey and broccoli with a rich and tangy alfredo sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked turkey to the alfredo sauce and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked broccoli with the turkey mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Bacon and Egg Scramble
Turkey Bacon and Egg Scramble Recipe
Get ready for a breakfast twist with this flavorful Turkey Bacon and Egg Scramble!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 4 slices of turkey bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or butter for the pan
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of cooking spray or butter to grease the pan.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they are almost set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced turkey bacon to the eggs and stir gently to combine.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the eggs and turkey bacon.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or as a tasty alternative to traditional Thanksgiving leftovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
4. Add the diced turkey and stir to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Ground Turkey Meatballs with Marinara
A flavorful and low-carb twist on traditional meatballs, these keto ground turkey meatballs are a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Serve the baked meatballs with warm marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Avocado-Stuffed Turkey Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this creative twist on the classic turkey burger. Fresh avocado adds a creamy, nutritious boost to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey burgers (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mashed avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
3. Divide each turkey burger in half lengthwise, creating a pocket for the filling.
4. Stuff each turkey burger with about 2 tablespoons of the avocado mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or cook the burgers according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes per side).
7. Serve on hamburger buns with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total, depending on cooking method and desired level of doneness.
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash
A delicious and nutritious fall-inspired dish that combines the flavors of roasted turkey, curly kale, and nutty acorn squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried sage
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced turkey breast and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried sage.
5. Stuff each squash half with the turkey-kale mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cheese-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savor the flavors of a satisfying main course with this simple and flavorful recipe. Ground turkey, cheese, and bell peppers come together to create a deliciously hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your keto diet with these 20 mouth-watering ground turkey recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, this collection has something for everyone. Discover creative ways to prepare ground turkey, from stuffed peppers and lasagna to meatballs and burgers. Each recipe is carefully crafted to meet the dietary requirements of a ketogenic lifestyle, ensuring you stay within your daily macros while indulging in delicious flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned keto dieter or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites!