Ground Turkey with Potatoes is a simple and hearty dish that brings together lean ground turkey and tender potatoes in one comforting meal. The turkey is lightly seasoned and cooked until juicy, while the potatoes add a satisfying texture and a little bit of earthiness. It’s a great combo that feels both filling and fresh.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients. One tip I always follow is to cook the potatoes just right — not too soft and not too firm — so they soak up some of the flavors from the turkey without falling apart. It really makes a difference in how well all the flavors come together.
My favorite way to serve it is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced and colorful meal. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to enjoy as leftovers too, which I always appreciate. Whenever I make it, it quickly becomes a family favorite because it hits that perfect spot between cozy and nutritious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the dish healthy and light. If you want a different flavor or more fat, ground chicken or even lean ground beef works well as a substitute.
Potatoes: Using medium potatoes diced into bite-sized pieces lets them cook evenly with the turkey. Yukon gold potatoes are my favorite for this, but red or russet potatoes work too.
Broccoli: It adds color and crunch. You can swap broccoli with green beans, peas, or spinach for a different veggie twist.
Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes: These give the dish a rich, tangy base. If you don’t have tomato paste, tomato sauce can be a handy substitute, but reduce any added liquids.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds warmth and a tiny smoky note. If you can’t find it, regular paprika and a pinch of cumin are great alternatives.
How Can I Cook Potatoes Perfectly with Ground Turkey?
Potatoes can be tricky—they need to cook fully without turning mushy or breaking apart. Here’s what I do:
- Cut potatoes into evenly sized cubes—about 1 inch—to ensure they cook evenly and at the same pace as the turkey.
- After adding potatoes, cover the pan with a lid and cook on medium-low to trap steam. This softens potatoes without drying out the mixture.
- Stir occasionally, but not too often. Let potatoes sit a bit to cook through before moving them around to avoid breaking.
- Add the broccoli towards the end because it cooks faster and you want it tender but still bright and slightly crisp.
Following these steps helps balance texture and flavor nicely in this one-pan dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the turkey and potatoes together evenly in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up the turkey and stirring without scratching your pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to dice potatoes and chop vegetables safely and quickly.
- Lid for the skillet – helps steam the potatoes and broccoli so they cook through nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for a different meat flavor or more richness.
- Add a handful of chopped bell peppers or carrots with the onions for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella just before serving for a creamy twist.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce when adding the spices.
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25 minutes to cook. In just under 40 minutes, you will have a warm, flavorful, and nutritious meal ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up using a spoon, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Stir in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), smoked paprika, ground cumin, and optional chili powder. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally, until the potatoes start to soften.
5. Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking:
Stir in the broccoli florets, cover again, and let everything cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the potatoes are fully cooked.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground turkey in the fridge overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables for Broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to use green beans, spinach, or bell peppers instead. Add them towards the end of cooking to keep their texture and color.
How Do I Prevent Potatoes from Becoming Mushy?
Cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes and cook them covered on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally but gently to avoid breaking them apart.
