Easy Ground Turkey and Potatoes Skillet (One-Pan Dinner in 30 Minutes!)
Looking for a quick, cozy, and family-approved dinner that’s easy on the budget and big on flavor? This Ground Turkey and Potatoes Skillet is exactly what your busy weeknights need. It’s made in just one pan, requires simple pantry staples, and is done in 30 minutes flat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free too. Trust me, this is one of those back-pocket dinners you’ll want to make on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¾ cup chicken broth or water
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Recipe Details:
- Serving Size: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Add potatoes and seasoning: Toss in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together to coat evenly.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, reduce heat to low, and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finish and serve: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for 1–2 minutes to melt. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Ground Turkey and Potatoes Skillet
- Dice the potatoes small: Cutting your potatoes into small, even cubes helps them cook faster and more evenly. If they’re too big, they’ll stay crunchy while everything else is done.
- Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet: This helps prevent sticking and allows for easy cleanup, especially when browning the turkey.
- Don’t skip the broth: It helps steam the potatoes while keeping the dish juicy and flavorful. You can use water in a pinch, but broth adds extra depth.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to taste and tweak the salt, pepper, and spices. If you like it smoky, add a pinch of cumin. Want more heat? Try a dash of hot sauce.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Make it Tex-Mex: Swap oregano for cumin and chili powder, stir in some black beans or corn, and top with avocado or sour cream.
- Add more veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a veggie boost.
- Cheeseburger vibes: Mix in ketchup and mustard at the end, sprinkle shredded cheddar, and serve with pickles for a fun twist.
- Low-carb version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter, keto-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground beef works great in this recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess grease after browning it.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Not necessarily. If you’re using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the texture of potatoes may change slightly after freezing. To freeze, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve this with?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can add a side salad, roasted veggies, or some crusty bread to round things out.
Related Post: Glazed Baked Cauliflower
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey and Potatoes Skillet is everything we love in a dinner—easy, fast, comforting, and totally flexible. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home no matter how you serve it. Whether you keep it classic or give it a creative twist, this is one of those recipes you’ll reach for again and again. Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a weeknight staple in so many homes.