There’s a quiet kind of comfort in the sound of onions sizzling in olive oil — that familiar crackle that tells you something delicious is about to happen. This ground turkey with potatoes skillet captures that feeling perfectly: cozy, hearty, and just simple enough for a weeknight dinner that feels homemade from the first bite.
Inspired by my grandmother’s kitchen, this dish celebrates everything a family meal should be — warm, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that balances lean protein, tender potatoes, and a touch of spice, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated (or heavy).
Ideal for: busy weeknights, meal prepping, or those days when you just need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Potato Skillet
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes (white, yellow, or russet)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Diced bell peppers (for color and crunch)
- Shredded carrots or zucchini
- A handful of corn for sweetness
- A sprinkle of cheese for a comforting twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent — about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
This step builds the flavorful base that will carry through the entire dish.
2. Brown the Turkey
Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until no longer pink and lightly browned, 7–10 minutes. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well so every bite gets that cozy, savory warmth.
3. Add the Potatoes
Stir in the diced potatoes, coating them in the seasoned turkey mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden.
Pro tip: if the skillet gets dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.
4. Toss in the Peas
Add the frozen peas and stir gently. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, just until the peas are bright green and heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness.
Serve warm — straight from the skillet — with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside a simple salad.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Skillet Meal
- Cut Evenly: Dice your potatoes the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder for a little kick.
- Flavor Boost: A squeeze of lime or a dollop of sour cream at the end brightens the dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores beautifully for up to 3 days and tastes even better reheated.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet ones for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-dense version.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based “ground meat” and a drizzle of vegan Worcestershire or soy sauce for depth.
- Mexican-Style Twist: Add chili powder, cumin, and top with avocado or shredded cheese.
- Breakfast Hash: Crack a few eggs on top, cover, and cook until just set — perfect for brunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.
- Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
- Wrap in a tortilla for an easy on-the-go burrito-style meal.
- Top with fried eggs and a dash of hot sauce for a satisfying breakfast-for-dinner spin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes bring a soft sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let the dish cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What other vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, corn, zucchini, spinach — almost anything goes. Just add firmer vegetables early in the cooking process.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
Note: Values may vary depending on brands and ingredient substitutions.
In a world full of complicated recipes and endless dishes to wash, this ground turkey with potatoes skillet brings you back to what cooking is really about, nourishment, comfort, and connection. It’s a recipe that doesn’t ask for much, but gives you plenty in return.
So the next time you’re craving something warm and unfussy, grab your skillet, some pantry staples, and let the aroma of onions and garlic fill the air, just like home.
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Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes (white, yellow, or russet)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Diced bell peppers (for color and crunch)
- Shredded carrots or zucchini
- A handful of corn for sweetness
- A sprinkle of cheese for a comforting twist
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent — about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.This step builds the flavorful base that will carry through the entire dish.
- Brown the Turkey:Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until no longer pink and lightly browned, 7–10 minutes. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well so every bite gets that cozy, savory warmth.
- Add the Potatoes:Stir in the diced potatoes, coating them in the seasoned turkey mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden.Pro tip: if the skillet gets dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.
- Toss in the Peas:Add the frozen peas and stir gently. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, just until the peas are bright green and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness.Serve warm — straight from the skillet — with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside a simple salad.
Notes
- Make It Ahead: Cook and cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Perfect for meal prep.
- One-Pan Secret: If the potatoes start sticking, add a splash of broth or water and cover — they’ll steam to tenderness without burning.
- Flavor Tip: A squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of smoked paprika just before serving adds a pop of brightness.
- Healthier Option: Use lean (93%) ground turkey to keep it light while still juicy.
- Family-Friendly Variation: Toss in a bit of shredded cheese at the end — it melts beautifully into the skillet for extra comfort.
- Time-Saver: To cut down prep, dice potatoes in advance and store them in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours.