One-Pan Comfort: My Easy Ground Turkey & Potatoes
There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that comes together in a single pan—less fuss, more flavor, and that glorious moment when you slide it straight from oven to table. This easy ground turkey with potatoes has been my weeknight savior more times than I can count, especially on those evenings when the clock seems to move faster than my energy levels. Picture this: golden potatoes, savory turkey, and just the right amount of herbs, all mingling in one cozy dish. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients, and let’s make magic happen:
- 1 lb ground turkey – I love using 93% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes – Their buttery texture holds up beautifully here. No peeling needed—just a good scrub!
- 1 small yellow onion – Diced finely so it melts into the dish, adding sweetness without overpowering.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Because what’s a savory dish without garlic’s cozy aroma?
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For that golden crisp we all crave.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – A little smoky depth goes a long way.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Earthy and warm, like a whisper of autumn.
- Salt & black pepper – To taste, of course. Don’t be shy!
- ½ cup chicken broth – Keeps everything juicy and helps those flavors meld.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – For a bright pop of color and freshness at the end.
Let’s Get Cooking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the ingredients—this dish comes together quickly once you start!
- Prep the potatoes: Cut them into ½-inch cubes (no need for perfection here—rustic is charming!). Toss them in a large bowl with 1 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of salt, and the smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Brown the turkey: Heat the remaining oil in a large oven-safe skillet (I adore my cast iron for this) over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Once the turkey is no longer pink, stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
- Bring it all together: Push the turkey mixture to one side of the pan and add the seasoned potatoes in an even layer. Pour the chicken broth over everything—it’ll steam and soften the potatoes while keeping the turkey moist.
At this point, your kitchen should smell like a dream. Now, we’re ready for the oven—but I’ll save the finishing touches for part two. Trust me, the wait (and the aroma) will be worth it!
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
This easy ground turkey with potatoes recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra warmth.
- Veggie boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Potato swap: Sweet potatoes or butternut squash make delicious alternatives to regular potatoes.
- Herb variations: Fresh rosemary or thyme work beautifully in place of oregano.
- Cheesy finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta before serving.
What to Serve With Your One-Pan Dinner
While this dish is satisfying on its own, here are some perfect pairings:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Warm crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
- A dollop of cool Greek yogurt or sour cream
Storage and Reheating Tips
This meal keeps beautifully for busy weeknights:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Microwave works too – just cover and stir occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe crispier?
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check that your seasonings and broth are gluten-free if that’s a concern.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You can! Brown the turkey first, then cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a simple, hearty meal that comes together in one pan. This ground turkey and potatoes dinner has become a weeknight hero in my kitchen – the kind of recipe that fills your home with delicious aromas and your family with happy smiles. I hope it brings as much warmth and convenience to your table as it has to mine. Don’t forget to make extra for those nights when you need a quick, wholesome meal at the ready!
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Ground Turkey with Potatoes
Description
A hearty and flavorful dish combining lean ground turkey with tender potatoes and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce if needed.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
