Flavorful Ground Turkey

This Flavorful Ground Turkey recipe is hearty, versatile, and packed with protein and vegetables. Simmered with beans, corn, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, it makes a delicious base for chili, tacos, burritos, nachos, stuffed peppers, or even as a topping for rice or pizza.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground turkey often gets a bad reputation for being bland, but this recipe transforms it into a flavorful, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways.

• Protein-packed and filling

• Easy one-pot preparation

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

• Customizable with different beans and vegetables

• Freezer-friendly for busy weeks

• Lower in fat than beef, but just as hearty

• Adaptable for stove, slow cooker, or Instant Pot

• Versatile for many meals

• Mild spice with an option to add heat

• Balanced flavors from herbs, spices, and veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced

• 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean or leaner)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup frozen corn

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

2. Add onion and cook 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and both bell peppers. Cook 3–5 minutes until fragrant and softened.

4. Increase heat to medium-high, then add ground turkey. Break into small pieces and cook 7–10 minutes, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

5. Stir in oregano, basil, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toast spices for 1–2 minutes.

6. Add diced tomatoes (with liquid) and tomato sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

7. Stir in kidney beans, black beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer.

8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in cilantro before serving, if desired.

10. Serve hot as chili, in tacos or burritos, over rice or quinoa, stuffed in peppers, on nachos, or as a pizza topping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable boost: Add zucchini, carrots, or celery.

• Different beans: Swap kidney and black beans for pinto or cannellini beans.

• Meat swap: Use ground beef, chicken, or sausage.

• Slow cooker version: Brown turkey and veggies, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

• Instant Pot version: Brown turkey with onions and peppers, then cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, natural release.

• Spicy kick: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra cayenne.

• Smoky flavor: Use fire-roasted tomatoes.

• Cheesy topping: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack before serving.

• Tex-Mex style: Add taco seasoning instead of Italian herbs.

• Lighter version: Skip beans and double the vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth or water if too thick.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey breast only?

Yes, but it’s leaner and may turn out drier. Add a little olive oil for moisture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the turkey with lentils, quinoa, or extra beans.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild as written—adjust cayenne pepper for more heat.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, it can be made 1–2 days ahead and reheated. Flavors deepen overnight.

Can I skip the beans?

Yes, though they add heartiness. Replace with extra vegetables or grains.

What’s the best way to thicken the mixture?

Simmer uncovered for a longer time, or mash some beans into the sauce.

Do I need fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work fine, but fresh basil or oregano can be stirred in at the end for brightness.

Can I make this low-carb?

Yes, omit beans and corn and increase turkey and vegetables.

What can I serve with it?

Rice, quinoa, cornbread, or tortilla chips make great sides.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Portion it out for easy future meals.

Conclusion

This Flavorful Ground Turkey recipe is the perfect go-to dinner—hearty, healthy, and versatile. Packed with spices, beans, and veggies, it’s a complete meal that can be enjoyed in countless ways, from chili bowls to tacos or nachos. Great for weeknights, meal prep, or freezer storage, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Print