One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes: A Weeknight Wonder

One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes – just the name conjures up images of a comforting, flavorful meal ready in minutes, doesn’t it? This recipe is my absolute go-to for busy weeknights, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup; this dish is all about simplicity and deliciousness.

While the precise origins of one-pan ground meat and potato dishes are difficult to pinpoint, the concept is undeniably ancient, reflecting a practical approach to cooking found across numerous cultures. Think hearty peasant fare, transformed into a modern culinary delight. The beauty of this One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily customize it to your liking, adding different vegetables or spices to create a unique flavor profile each time.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect blend of textures and tastes. The tender ground turkey offers a lean protein source, while the potatoes provide a satisfyingly hearty base. The combination of savory spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. And let’s not forget the convenience! One pan means less cleanup, which is a huge win after a long day. This One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe is a true testament to the fact that delicious and easy can, and should, coexist.

So, are you ready to experience the magic of this simple yet incredibly satisfying meal? Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables and Spices

1. First, I like to prep all my vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. If you prefer smaller pieces, feel free to adjust the size.
2. Next, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. I find that mincing the garlic gives a more even distribution of flavor throughout the dish.
3. Chop both the red and green bell peppers into roughly the same size as the potatoes. This helps them cook evenly alongside the potatoes.
4. Now, let’s get our spices ready! In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mixing them beforehand ensures even distribution of flavor.

Cooking the Ground Turkey

5. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. I prefer a cast iron skillet for even heating and browning.
6. Add the ground turkey to the hot skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess grease.
7. Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back later.

Sautéing the Vegetables

8. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. I like to cook the onions until they are translucent.
9. Add the minced garlic and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Don’t overcook the peppers, as you want them to retain some of their crispness.
10. Stir in the spice mixture and cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Combining and Baking

11. Add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes (undrained), black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
12. Return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet. Gently stir to incorporate everything evenly.
13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
14. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. You can check for doneness by easily piercing a potato with a fork.
15. After 45 minutes, remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly. This step adds a nice texture and enhances the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

16. Once the One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
17. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. The cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
18. Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. This is a great way to add a cool contrast to the warm spices.
19. Enjoy your delicious and easy One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

Tips and Variations

20. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
21. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
22. If you don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes, you can use russet potatoes, but they may take a little longer to cook.
23. For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the dish uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
24. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also reheat well in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe! I truly believe this dish is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy. Everything cooks together on one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your free time. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the seasonings to your liking, adding different herbs, spices, or even a touch of chili for a spicier kick. The possibilities are endless!

Third, and perhaps most importantly, it’s delicious! The combination of tender ground turkey, perfectly roasted potatoes, and flavorful seasonings creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. The potatoes get wonderfully crispy on the edges while remaining fluffy on the inside, and the ground turkey absorbs all those amazing flavors. It’s a complete meal in itself, offering a satisfying balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions:

This One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I personally love serving it with a simple green salad to add some freshness and crunch. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy element that complements the savory flavors of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

Variations to Explore:

Feeling adventurous? Try some of these variations to customize your One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes to your preferences:

• Add some veggies: Throw in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or broccoli florets for extra nutrients and flavor. They’ll roast beautifully alongside the potatoes and turkey.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herby goodness: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. They’ll add a wonderful aromatic dimension to the dish.
• Cheese please!: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish.
• Different protein: While ground turkey is fantastic, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken, ground beef, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination of flavors and ingredients. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or try new seasonings.

Share Your Culinary Creations!

I would love to hear about your experience making this One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe! Once you’ve tried it, please share your thoughts and photos on social media using the hashtag #OnePanGroundTurkeyPotatoes. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations and hear how you customized this simple yet satisfying meal. Let’s connect and share our culinary adventures together!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and easy one-pan meal. This One Pan Ground Turkey Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!