What to Make with Leftover Ground Turkey: 15 Delicious Recipes
What to Make With Leftover Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s a good source of protein and nutrients, and it’s also relatively inexpensive. If you have leftover ground turkey, you can use it to make a variety of delicious and satisfying meals.
In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite recipes for using up leftover ground turkey. We’ll include recipes for tacos, burritos, chili, soups, and more. So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a more elaborate dish to impress your guests, we’ve got you covered.
So next time you have leftover ground turkey, don’t throw it away! Instead, use it to make one of these delicious recipes.
| Meal | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey Chili |
1 pound ground turkey 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, for serving |
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground turkey. 2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through. 4. Serve with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips. |
| Turkey Tacos |
1 pound ground turkey 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 (10 ounce) can corn, drained 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Tortillas, for serving |
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey. 2. Add the onion, garlic, corn, black beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through. 3. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese and tortillas. |
| Turkey Meatloaf |
1 pound ground turkey 1/2 cup bread crumbs 1/2 cup milk 1 egg 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce |
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, green bell pepper, celery, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined. 3. Form the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. 4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). 5. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. |
Ground turkey is a versatile and affordable protein that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc, and it is also low in fat. Leftover ground turkey can be used to make a variety of main dishes, side dishes, and snacks.
In this article, we will share some of our favorite recipes for using leftover ground turkey. We have included recipes for chili, tacos, spaghetti and meatballs, shepherd’s pie, meatloaf, burgers, pizza, soup, casseroles, and fried rice. We have also included recipes for side dishes such as mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, rice pilaf, salad, vegetables, biscuits, cornbread, breadsticks, crackers, and chips.
We hope that you enjoy these recipes and that you find them helpful in using up your leftover ground turkey.
Main Dishes
Chili
Chili is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe for chili is made with ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is hearty and flavorful, and it is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Tacos
Tacos are a fun and easy way to use up leftover ground turkey. This recipe for tacos is made with ground turkey, beans, vegetables, and cheese. It is simple to make and it is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Spaghetti and meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a family dinner. This recipe for spaghetti and meatballs is made with ground turkey, meatballs, spaghetti, and sauce. It is hearty and delicious, and it is sure to please everyone at the table.
Shepherd’s pie
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe for shepherd’s pie is made with ground turkey, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cheese. It is filling and delicious, and it is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic American dish that is perfect for a family dinner. This recipe for meatloaf is made with ground turkey, bread crumbs, vegetables, and cheese. It is moist and flavorful, and it is sure to please everyone at the table.
Burgers
Burgers are a fun and easy way to use up leftover ground turkey. This recipe for burgers is made with ground turkey, vegetables, cheese, and a delicious sauce. It is simple to make and it is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Pizza
Pizza is a delicious and versatile dish that can be made with a variety of toppings. This recipe for pizza is made with ground turkey, vegetables, cheese, and a delicious sauce. It is a fun and easy way to use up leftover ground turkey.
Soup
Soup is a great way to warm up on a cold winter day. This recipe for soup is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and broth. It is hearty and flavorful, and it is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Casseroles
Casseroles are a great way to use up leftover ground turkey. This recipe for casserole is made with ground turkey, vegetables, cheese, and a delicious sauce. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a family dinner.
Fried rice
Fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. This recipe for fried rice is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and eggs. It is a quick and easy way to use up leftover ground turkey.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that is perfect for any meal. This recipe for mashed potatoes is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and cheese. It is a hearty and delicious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe for mac and cheese is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and cheese. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Rice pilaf
Rice pilaf is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. This recipe for rice pilaf is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any meal.
Salad
Salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish that is perfect for any meal. This recipe for salad is made with ground turkey, vegetables, and a delicious dressing. It is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer day.
Vegetables
Vegetables are a healthy and nutritious side dish that can be served with any meal.
Appetizers
Meatballs
Meatballs are a classic appetizer that can be made with leftover ground turkey. Simply combine the turkey with some breadcrumbs, eggs, spices, and herbs, and then form into balls. You can bake the meatballs in the oven or fry them in a pan. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
Tacos
Tacos are another great way to use up leftover ground turkey. Simply fill tortillas with the turkey, along with your favorite taco toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. You can also add beans, rice, or guacamole to your tacos.
Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a Mexican dish that is made with tortillas, cheese, and meat. To make quesadillas with leftover ground turkey, simply add the turkey to a tortilla along with some cheese. You can then fold the tortilla over and cook it in a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown. Serve the quesadillas with your favorite salsa or guacamole.
Pizza Rolls
Pizza rolls are a fun and easy appetizer that can be made with leftover ground turkey. Simply combine the turkey with some pizza sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Then, roll the mixture up into crescent rolls and bake until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are a Chinese dish that is made with a thin wrapper filled with meat, vegetables, and other ingredients. To make egg rolls with leftover ground turkey, simply combine the turkey with some vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and onions. Then, wrap the mixture in egg roll wrappers and fry until golden brown.
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a Vietnamese dish that is similar to egg rolls. To make spring rolls with leftover ground turkey, simply combine the turkey with some vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and onions. Then, wrap the mixture in rice paper wrappers and steam until cooked through.
Croquettes
Croquettes are a French dish that is made with a mixture of mashed potatoes, ground meat, and other ingredients. To make croquettes with leftover ground turkey, simply combine the turkey with some mashed potatoes, eggs, bread crumbs, and spices. Then, form the mixture into balls or patties and fry until golden brown.
Sliders
Sliders are small burgers that are perfect for parties or gatherings. To make sliders with leftover ground turkey, simply form the turkey into small patties and cook them in a pan or on the grill. Serve the sliders on slider buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and bacon.
Mini Tacos
Mini tacos are a fun and easy appetizer that can be made with leftover ground turkey. Simply fill small tortillas with the turkey, along with your favorite taco toppings. You can also add beans, rice, or guacamole to your tacos.
Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas are a great way to use up leftover ground turkey. Simply top mini pizza crusts with the turkey, along with your favorite pizza toppings. You can also add some vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
Desserts
Meatloaf Cupcakes
Meatloaf cupcakes are a fun and creative way to use up leftover ground turkey. Simply combine the turkey with some breadcrumbs, eggs, spices, and herbs, and then form into cupcakes. You can bake the cupcakes in the oven or fry them in a pan. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
Taco Pie
Taco pie is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Simply combine the turkey with some taco seasoning, vegetables, and cheese. Then, pour the mixture into a pie crust and bake until cooked through. Serve the taco pie with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
Pizza Brownies
Pizza brownies are a fun and creative way to use up leftover ground turkey. Simply combine the turkey with some pizza sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Then, pour the mixture into a brownie pan and bake until cooked through. Serve the pizza brownies with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
Shepherd’s Pie Cheesecake
Shepherd’s pie cheesecake is a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for a special occasion. Simply combine the turkey with some mashed potatoes, vegetables, and cheese. Then, pour the mixture into a cheesecake pan and bake until cooked through. Serve the shepherd’s pie cheesecake with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chives, or bacon.
Meatloaf Cookies
Meatloaf cookies are a fun and easy
What To Make With Leftover Ground Turkey?
- Q: What are some simple recipes I can make with leftover ground turkey?
- A: Here are a few simple recipes you can make with leftover ground turkey:
- Turkey Tacos: Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package directions. Serve the turkey in tortillas with your favorite taco toppings.
- Turkey Chili: Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Add onion, green bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Turkey Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually stir in milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in frozen peas and corn. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
- Q: How can I make my leftover ground turkey more flavorful?
- A: Here are a few tips for making your leftover ground turkey more flavorful:
- Add some spices or herbs to the ground turkey before cooking it. Some good options include chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or cilantro.
- Cook the ground turkey in a flavorful liquid, such as broth, wine, or tomato sauce.
- Add some vegetables to the ground turkey, such as onions, peppers, carrots, or celery.
- Serve the ground turkey with a flavorful sauce, such as gravy, salsa, or chili sauce.
- Q: How can I store leftover ground turkey?
- A: To store leftover ground turkey, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover ground turkey can be stored for up to 3 days.
- Q: How can I reheat leftover ground turkey?
- A: To reheat leftover ground turkey, you can either microwave it or reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. To microwave the ground turkey, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat the ground turkey in a skillet, heat the skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Add the ground turkey and cook until heated through.
- Q: What are some other ways to use leftover ground turkey?
- A: In addition to the recipes listed above, here are some other ways to use leftover ground turkey:
- Add it to soups or stews.
- Use it as a filling for burritos, tacos, or enchiladas.
- Make a casserole with it.
- Add it to a salad.
- Make a sandwich with it.
- Use it as a topping for pizza.
Ground turkey is a versatile and affordable protein that can be used in a variety of dishes. In this blog post, we shared 10 delicious recipes that you can make with leftover ground turkey. From tacos and chili to soups and casseroles, there’s sure to be something for everyone in this list. We hope you enjoy these recipes and find them helpful in using up your leftover ground turkey.
Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:
- Ground turkey can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos and chili to soups and casseroles.
- It is a versatile and affordable protein that is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Leftover ground turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When reheating leftover ground turkey, be sure to cook it until it is heated through to avoid any foodborne illness.
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I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.
I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.
Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.
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