As the sun begins to set and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of savory garlic and sizzling onions wafting through the kitchen. On evenings when fast food no longer tempts me, I turn to my trusty skillet for solace—a one-pan ground turkey with potatoes dish that always hits the spot. Tender potatoes, juicy ground turkey, and vibrant peas meld together in a delightful harmony, making this meal not just hearty but incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, it’s versatile enough to accommodate all kinds of flavor preferences, whether you crave a hint of spice or a touch of sweetness with sweet potatoes. Trust me, this budget-friendly dish captures all the warmth of home-cooked comfort food, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Why is Ground Turkey with Potatoes a must-try?

Simplicity: This one-pan dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ground turkey and everyday ingredients, this recipe keeps your wallet smiling while delivering deliciousness.

Flavorful: The combination of spices and the savory aroma of garlic and onions create a rich, satisfying meal that delights the senses.

Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences for a unique twist every time.

Comfort Food: With tender potatoes and juicy turkey, this dish provides a warm, cozy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Explore more quick and delicious meals with my complete one-pan recipes collection!

Ground Turkey with Potatoes Ingredients

For the Skillet Dish
• Ground Turkey – A lean protein that provides a savory base for this comforting meal.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing; can be replaced with vegetable oil for a more neutral taste.
• Onion – The aromatic base that enhances flavor; shallots are a milder alternative.
• Garlic – Fresh is ideal for maximum flavor; garlic powder is a convenient substitute in a pinch.
• Diced Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture; Russets or Yukon Golds are excellent choices, while sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness.
• Frozen Peas – Offers a pop of color and sweetness; fresh peas are wonderful if in season.
• Ground Cumin – Infuses warmth into the dish; you can switch it out with curry powder for a different taste.
• Paprika – Adds depth and a touch of mild heat; try smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro – A refreshing garnish option; parsley can work well if you prefer a different herb.

Create a warming meal with these simple ingredients, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Ground Turkey with Potatoes tonight!

How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Brown the Turkey: Crumble the ground turkey into the skillet. Cook it until it turns golden brown, which takes around 7-10 minutes. Don’t forget to season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for that irresistible flavor.
Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are evenly mixed. Cover the skillet and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Incorporate Peas: Toss in the frozen peas and cook until they are warmed through, usually about 5 minutes. Their vibrant color will brighten up your dish!
Garnish and Serve: Finish off by sprinkling fresh cilantro over the top. This adds a lovely touch of freshness. Serve warm, and if you’re feeling indulgent, enjoy it with crusty bread or over fluffy rice.

Optional: For some extra warmth, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Turkey with Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover ground turkey with potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors stay intact while keeping your meal fresh.

Freezer: You can freeze this dish in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing any excess air to maintain the best taste and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave in intervals, stirring in between for even warming.

Make Ahead Options

These Ground Turkey with Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store the potatoes in water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can cook the turkey mixture and freeze it for up to 2 months, making it a breeze to whip up a hearty meal later. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove and stir in the peas, cooking until warmed through. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a comforting dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying as when freshly made!

Ground Turkey with Potatoes Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own and transform its flavors to suit your palate!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet twist that adds a lovely color.
Zucchini Addition: Dice up some zucchini for a tender veggie addition that complements the ground turkey beautifully.
Curry Infusion: Substitute ground cumin with curry powder to introduce a vibrant, aromatic flavor to your dish.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a stimulating heat that’ll awaken your taste buds.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, indulgent finish that the whole family will love.
Herb Boost: Try using fresh basil or parsley instead of cilantro for a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens each bite.
Mixed Veggies: Toss in a mix of frozen vegetables, like carrots and corn, for an extra nutrition boost and colorful presentation.
Quinoa Base: Serve your turkey and potatoes over a fluffy bed of quinoa instead for a gluten-free, protein-packed upgrade!

Expert Tips for Ground Turkey with Potatoes

Cut Evenly: Dice potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking; this prevents some being undercooked while others are perfectly tender.
Spice Adjustment: For a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or adjust the cumin to your taste—just remember, seasoning enhances the Ground Turkey with Potatoes flavor!
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add in bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded carrots for added nutrition and flavor without compromising the dish.
Meal Prep Convenience: This one-pan dish is freezer-friendly; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to two months—perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Fresh vs. Frozen: While frozen peas are convenient, using fresh peas when in season can elevate the dish with a pop of freshness and crunch.

What to Serve with Ground Turkey with Potatoes?

When you’re looking to create a memorable meal experience, pairing can elevate your comforting skillet dish to new heights.

Crusty Bread:
A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the savory juices, adding that delightful crunch to your meal.
Fluffy Rice:
Steamed white rice or brown rice complements the heartiness of the turkey and potatoes, making every bite fulfilling and smooth.
Garden Salad:
A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables:
Oven-roasted seasonal veggies provide a caramelized sweetness that rounds out your meal while keeping it wholesome and colorful.
Sautéed Spinach:
Quick-cooked garlic spinach brings a nutritious, vibrant pop of green that’s both flavorful and nourishing alongside of the main dish.

For dessert, consider indulging in a Warm Apple Crisp, as its sweet and cinnamon-infused flavors will perfectly complement the savory notes of your main course.

Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a natural sweetness, sweet potatoes are a fantastic alternative and will give your dish a lovely twist.

How should I store leftovers of Ground Turkey with Potatoes?
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to preserve the flavors and prevent condensation.

Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze Ground Turkey with Potatoes in portions for up to 2 months. To do so, let the dish cool, then place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

What if my potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
If you notice that your potatoes are unevenly cooked, it may be because they weren’t cut uniformly. For best results, aim for small, equal-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This way, they’ll cook evenly. If some are still firm, you can add a splash of water and cover the skillet for a few extra minutes to steam them through.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this Ground Turkey with Potatoes dish is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any seasoning blends you use, like cumin and paprika, are labeled gluten-free, as some may contain additives. This makes it a fantastic option for anyone avoiding gluten in their meals.

Can I make adjustments based on dietary restrictions?
Of course! This meal is very adaptable. If you have allergies to certain vegetables or spices, feel free to swap in what you like or have on hand. For example, replacing peas with green beans or omitting cumin for curry powder will give you a completely new flavor profile while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.