Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a simple and heartwarming dish that brings together tender ground turkey and crispy, golden potatoes in one skillet. The savory flavor of the turkey blends perfectly with the earthy, comforting texture of the potatoes, making it a satisfying meal that’s great any day of the week.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but not too heavy. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to customize too—sometimes I throw in a handful of herbs or a dash of spices to give it a little extra punch. Cooking the potatoes alongside the turkey means everything gets those delicious crispy edges that I can’t resist. Plus, it cooks up quickly, which is perfect for busy evenings.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. It’s the kind of dinner that warms you up and satisfies big and small appetites alike. Whenever I make Ground Turkey with Potatoes, everyone finishes their plates and asks for seconds, which always makes me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and mild, ground turkey keeps this dish light but filling. If you prefer, you can swap it with ground chicken or even lean ground beef for a richer flavor.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape when cooked. You can also use red or white potatoes. Sweet potatoes add a nice twist if you want some sweetness.
Smoked Paprika & Spices: Smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky depth without heat. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder works fine. Adjust chili powder based on your heat preference.
Greens (Spinach or Kale): These add freshness and color at the end. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach or Swiss chard can be good substitutes, just drain well.
How Do I Get Crispy yet Tender Potatoes in This Dish?
Cooking potatoes just right can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut potatoes into even cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat oil well before adding potatoes—this helps in getting nice crispy edges.
- Cook them undisturbed for a few minutes to develop color before stirring.
- Lower heat if they start to brown too fast, cover the pan briefly to steam and soften inside.
- Remove once tender but still holding shape; final cooking with the turkey keeps flavors together without overcooking.
This balance gives you potatoes with a soft inside and a subtle crisp outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick skillet – perfect for cooking turkey and potatoes evenly without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you stir and break up the turkey without scratching your pan.
- Sharp knife – for chopping potatoes, onion, tomato, and greens easily and safely.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean and makes chopping safer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef for different flavors and textures.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies and color.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella near the end for a melty, creamy touch.
- Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to boost aroma and taste.
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup fresh spinach or kale leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley or kale leaf for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend 10-12 minutes cooking the potatoes until golden and tender, plus around 10-13 minutes for sautéing the turkey and combining everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and tender. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook it for 6-8 minutes until it is browned all over and fully cooked through.
4. Add Seasonings and Tomato:
Stir in the diced tomato, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Mix in Potatoes and Greens:
Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet along with the chopped spinach or kale. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt and everything is heated through.
6. Final Touches:
Taste the dish and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with a fresh parsley sprig or a kale leaf on top for a lovely finish.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground turkey in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
What Can I Substitute for Potatoes?
If you want a lower-carb option, try using diced cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the potatoes and cook the turkey mixture ahead, then combine and reheat just before serving to save time on busy days.
