If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe is exactly that: a simple, down-to-earth meal that combines juicy, seasoned ground turkey with tender, golden potatoes in a savory tomato sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling but fuss-free, and the blend of herbs and spices will make every bite sing. Trust me, this recipe quickly becomes a favorite because it balances comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for some everyday ingredients that work beautifully together to create rich flavors and satisfying textures. Each element plays a vital role, whether bringing a hint of sweetness, a touch of earthiness, or that lovely tender bite you expect from perfectly cooked potatoes.
- 1 lb ground turkey: The lean protein star that keeps this dish light but hearty.
- 3–4 medium potatoes, diced: These soak up all the seasoning and soften to just the right texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For browning the potatoes and adding a silky finish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant kick that’s essential in savory dishes.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: The base that ties everything together with tangy richness.
- ½ cup water: Helps the potatoes cook through and makes the sauce just right.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an herbal note with subtle earthiness.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Something sweet and floral that enhances the tomato flavors.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste): Crucial for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: For a gentle heat that rounds out the dish.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Deepens the onion flavor without adding extra texture.
How to Make Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground turkey. Using a spatula, break the turkey apart as it cooks until it’s nicely browned all over. Season it well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and oregano. Once the turkey is cooked through and fragrant, remove it from the skillet and set it aside for now. This step ensures the turkey develops a rich, savory flavor that’s the foundation of the entire dish.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Without wiping the skillet, add olive oil and heat it up. Then toss in the diced potatoes, stirring occasionally to help them brown evenly. After 5 to 10 minutes, you’ll want the potatoes to be golden and just starting to soften. This technique creates wonderful texture—crispy on the outside, tender inside—which perfectly complements the juicy turkey added back in later.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Now, add the browned turkey back into the skillet with the potatoes. Pour in the tomato sauce and water, then sprinkle in garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Give everything a good stir so the flavors blend beautifully. This combination of herbs and tomato sauce creates a cozy, fragrant base that makes the meal feel truly homemade and satisfying.
Step 4: Simmer Until Perfect
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through completely and absorb all those savory flavors. Plus, it gives the sauce time to thicken slightly, coating every bite in deliciousness. Don’t rush this step—good things come to those who wait!
Step 5: Final Taste and Serve
Give your creation a taste test and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or pepper is just what it needs. After that, serve warm. This dish shines on its own, but you can always serve it over rice or alongside some fresh steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and totally comforting.
How to Serve Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a handful of shredded cheese can add a bright touch or creamy contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy yogurt also pairs beautifully to elevate mouthfeel and flavor complexity, making each serving feel just a bit more special.
Side Dishes
This dish is flexible and pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, a crisp side salad with vinaigrette, or even roasted seasonal vegetables. These lighter sides balance the richness of the turkey and potatoes, keeping your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the turkey and potatoes inside baked bell peppers or over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows you to tailor the dish easily for different dietary preferences or occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a wonderful make-ahead meal when you want to save time on busy evenings.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container, let it cool completely, and store it. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and unexpected busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if it feels too dry. Alternatively, microwave in increments of 1 to 2 minutes, stirring between intervals for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a lovely natural sweetness and different texture, which pairs really well with the savory ground turkey and herbs. Just be sure to dice them evenly to cook through within the same time frame.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your tomato sauce and seasoning ingredients do not contain any gluten additives. Always double-check labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas during the simmer stage can boost nutrition and color. Just adjust cooking times slightly if adding veggies that take longer to soften.
What can I substitute for ground turkey?
You can easily swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef depending on your preference. The cooking method stays the same, but flavors will vary slightly.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add more heat?
This recipe has a mild warmth from black pepper and chili powder, suitable for most palates. If you love heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during the simmer step to kick things up a notch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself to a simple, homey meal, this Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe is a gem worth keeping in your rotation. It’s comforting and flavorful without being complicated, making dinner something to genuinely look forward to. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite for so many!
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Easy Ground Turkey with Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring lean ground turkey cooked with seasoned diced potatoes, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty dinner that’s easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground turkey
Vegetables
- 3–4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup water
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Brown the turkey: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and oregano. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the potatoes: In the same skillet, heat olive oil. Add diced potatoes and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and starting to soften.
- Combine ingredients: Return the turkey to the skillet. Add the tomato sauce, water, garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the mixture: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well blended.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm, either on its own or over rice or vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or carrots with the potatoes.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different twist.
- To make it lower in carbs, serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Make sure to dice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
