Are you looking for delicious and healthy meal options that just happen to be low in carbs? Look no further! Ground turkey is a great source of protein, and when paired with a variety of vegetables and spices, can result in some truly mouthwatering dishes. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired meals, we’ve got 20 savory ground turkey recipes that are all under 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the many possibilities of low-carb ground turkey cooking, from casseroles and skillet dinners to meatballs and more. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or an adventurous foodie eager to try something new, these recipes are sure to please. So why wait? Dive in and discover the countless ways you can enjoy ground turkey while keeping your carb count low.
Low Carb Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare! This Low Carb Turkey and Cauliflower Rice Skillet is a game-changer for any busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the 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 cauliflower florets to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the skillet and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines ground turkey, savory spices, and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Zucchini Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful twist on a classic! Turkey zucchini meatballs are a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Low Carb Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these lettuce wraps are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 packet of low-carb taco seasoning
– 8-10 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado slices for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by spooning the turkey mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by shredded cheese (if using), salsa, sour cream, and avocado slices.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful combination of savory turkey, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, spinach, feta, and garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the turkey mixture evenly among the mushrooms, spooning it into the cap.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Turkey and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook turkey, broccoli, and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned and the broccoli is tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir into the turkey mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Mix cream of chicken soup with French-fried onions; spoon over the cheese layer.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
This hearty, comforting dish combines the flavors of turkey, cauliflower, and mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cauliflower to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the diced turkey and mashed potatoes.
5. Transfer the turkey mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the cauliflower mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low Carb Turkey Burgers with Avocado
A healthier twist on traditional burgers, these low-carb turkey patties are packed with flavor and topped with creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Low-carb buns (such as portobello mushroom caps or lettuce wraps)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cheddar cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast low-carb buns (if using).
6. Assemble burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, then topping with sliced avocado.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary: This quick and flavorful recipe combines ground turkey with shredded cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce for a nutritious and delicious stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame 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.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and soy sauce; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Eggplant Lasagna
A creative twist on classic lasagna, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey and eggplant with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely 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. Cook turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate skillet, cook eggplant slices until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked turkey, marinara sauce, and chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the turkey mixture, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then a layer of eggplant slices. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low Carb Turkey Chili with Black Soybeans
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines lean turkey with fiber-rich black soybeans for a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup black soybeans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black soybeans, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
This hearty and flavorful pasta dish is a twist on the classic bolognese sauce, featuring ground turkey and zucchini noodles instead of traditional spaghetti. The result is a leaner, healthier take on an Italian staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the turkey mixture; toss to combine.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Almond Flour Meatloaf
This recipe is a creative spin on the classic meatloaf, using ground turkey and almond flour to create a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, cheese (if using), onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until the mixture is smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low Carb Turkey Sausage and Veggie Skillet
A delicious and quick one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the savory flavor of turkey sausage with colorful vegetables in a low-carb skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell pepper, zucchinis, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked turkey sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Transform your macaroni and cheese into a hearty, comforting meal by adding roasted turkey and tender cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cooked turkey (white or dark meat), diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with cauliflower. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, turkey-cauliflower mixture, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Turkey and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of fall with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Moist acorn squash is filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, kale, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squashes (about 1 pound each)
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped kale
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped kale, onion, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the kale is wilted.
5. Stuff each squash half with the turkey-kale mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squashes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low Carb Turkey and Avocado Roll-Ups
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional wraps, these turkey and avocado roll-ups are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 6 low-carb tortillas (around 5-6 inches in diameter)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the turkey breast, mashed avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out a low-carb tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey-avocado mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly, but gently, to form a neat cylinder.
5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready in just a few minutes.
Turkey and Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a familiar spaghetti squash dish, adding turkey for extra protein and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and spiralized
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Pad Thai sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti squash according to package instructions.
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 vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti squash, Pad Thai sauce, and chopped peanuts to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is heated through and the squash is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Ricotta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining the earthiness of portobello mushrooms with the creaminess of ricotta cheese and the savory taste of turkey.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey-ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the mushrooms during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low Carb Turkey and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This recipe is a perfect blend of protein-packed turkey and nutrient-rich green beans, all in one easy-to-make stir-fry. With only 5g of carbs per serving, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce (low-carb)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the green beans to the pan; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the turkey to the pan; stir to combine with the green beans and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional soy sauce or stir-fry sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes