This hearty ground turkey and potato skillet brings together lean protein, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices in one convenient pan. This complete meal delivers satisfying comfort food flavors while maintaining nutritional balance, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend meal prep sessions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey, 93% lean
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (about 200g), finely chopped
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups (300g) potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp (5ml) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (5ml) paprika
- 1 tsp (5ml) salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) black pepper
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Optional Additions:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Sauté the onion for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and softened. The onion should be golden but not browned.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Turkey Stir the minced garlic into the softened onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook the turkey for 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s completely cooked through and has developed a golden color. Ensure no pink remains in the meat.
Step 3: Season the Mixture Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the cooked turkey mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the meat. The spices should coat the turkey completely and become fragrant as they heat through.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Cook Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring them into the turkey mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The potatoes should become tender and easily pierced with a fork when done.
Step 5: Incorporate Peas and Finish Remove the lid and add the frozen peas to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the peas to heat through completely. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top if using. Serve immediately directly from the skillet or transfer to individual plates. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Nutritional Information and Timing
Total Preparation Time: 35-40 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-5 people
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Potassium: 18% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
- Iron: 15% Daily Value
This balanced one-pan meal provides lean protein from turkey, complex carbohydrates from potatoes, and essential vitamins from the peas and aromatics, making it a nutritionally complete dinner option.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives: Ground chicken, lean ground beef, or plant-based ground meat substitutes work excellently in place of turkey. For vegetarian options, crumbled firm tofu or tempeh provide similar texture and protein content.
Potato Substitutions: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and additional nutrients, though cooking time may increase slightly. Yukon Gold or red potatoes offer different textures, while cauliflower florets create a lower-carb version.
Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, corn kernels, diced carrots, or green beans integrate seamlessly into this skillet. Add heartier vegetables like carrots with the potatoes, and quicker-cooking vegetables like bell peppers with the peas.
Spice Modifications: Mexican-inspired variations include chili powder and oregano. Mediterranean flavors emerge with dried thyme, rosemary, and a splash of lemon juice. Indian-inspired versions benefit from curry powder and garam masala.
Cheese Enhancement: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta cheese over the finished dish for added richness and flavor. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ground turkey skillet ahead of time? This recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in airtight containers. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices meld together. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe? Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold hold their shape well during cooking and won’t become mushy. Russet potatoes work but may break down more, creating a heartier, more rustic texture. Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
How can I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan? Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding ingredients, and don’t skip the olive oil. Avoid stirring the potatoes too frequently during the initial cooking phase, allowing them to develop a slight crust. If sticking occurs, add a tablespoon of broth or water to deglaze the pan.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? This skillet recipe is excellent for meal prep because it reheats well and maintains its texture. Divide into portion-sized containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for best results.
Can I make this recipe in a different pan? While a large skillet works best for even cooking and browning, you can use a Dutch oven or large sauté pan. Avoid using pans that are too small, as overcrowding will cause ingredients to steam rather than brown properly. A 12-inch skillet provides optimal space for this recipe quantity.
This ground turkey and potato skillet delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for families seeking nutritious, satisfying meals. The combination of lean protein, hearty vegetables, and warming spices creates a complete meal that satisfies comfort food cravings while supporting healthy eating goals. Whether served fresh from the stove or enjoyed as leftovers throughout the week, this versatile dish adapts to busy lifestyles while delivering consistent, delicious results.