One-Pan Ground Turkey & Potatoes has become one of my go-to dinners on busy evenings when I want something both comforting and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish brings together savory ground turkey, crispy potatoes, and vibrant spinach, all topped with melty cheddar cheese, creating a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm embrace. With just a 10-minute prep and 30 minutes of cooking, it’s a quick dinner solution that fits perfectly into my weekday routine. It’s ideal for anyone seeking healthy recipes that don’t compromise on taste or satisfaction—plus, the one-pan approach means minimal cleanup, which is always a win.
I love how this beginner-friendly recipe manages to feel both hearty and light. The potatoes absorb all those juicy turkey drippings and spices, while a splash of chicken broth infuses each bite with extra depth. Then there’s the fresh spinach, swirling through the skillet like emerald ribbons, adding a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. When I serve this at our lunch gatherings or simple family dinners, people always ask for seconds. It’s amazing how a few humble ingredients can transform into such an inviting one-pan meal that screams comfort food yet still ticks the boxes for healthy cooking.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-PAN GROUND TURKEY & POTATOES
Every component in this recipe plays its part in building layers of flavor and texture. Below are the star ingredients that make this dish shine:
- Ground turkey
A lean protein base that absorbs seasonings beautifully. It keeps the dish light yet satisfying and cooks up quickly into juicy, flavorful crumbles.
- Olive oil
Used to sauté the vegetables and turkey, imparting a subtle fruitiness. It also helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.
- Onion
Adds natural sweetness and depth when chopped and cooked until soft, creating a flavorful foundation.
- Bell pepper
Offers a mild, crisp bite and vibrant color. It softens beautifully during sautéing, bringing a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic
Minced and added for an aromatic punch. It enhances the savory profile and awakens the senses with every stir.
- Potatoes
Cubed to deliver a satisfyingly tender-yet-crisp bite. They soak up the seasoned juices and broth, becoming deliciously golden on the edges.
- Paprika
Provides a warm, smoky undertone and a subtle red hue that makes the dish visually appealing.
- Dried oregano
Brings hints of Mediterranean aroma, balancing the richness of the turkey and potatoes.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning, it elevates all other flavors in perfect harmony.
- Black pepper
Adds a gentle heat and complexity, rounding out the spice profile.
- Red pepper flakes
Optional, for a spicy kick that livens up each mouthful without overpowering.
- Chicken broth
Pours in moisture and extra savory richness, helping the potatoes cook through and the flavors merge.
- Fresh spinach
Swirled in at the end for a burst of color and nutrition. It wilts quickly, adding a tender, leafy contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sprinkled on top to melt into gooey bliss, lending a creamy, tangy finish.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped for garnish, offering a bright, herbal note and a touch of freshness at the end.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-PAN GROUND TURKEY & POTATOES
Bringing this one-pan wonder together is straightforward and gratifying. You’ll be moving from sautéing to simmering to cheesy goodness all in a single skillet, and the result is a cohesive, flavor-packed meal.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil coats the bottom evenly. This step builds the perfect base for sautéing without sticking.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent. The gentle sizzle should release their natural sweetness.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. This infuses the oil with garlicky aroma.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even coloring.
5. Once the turkey is cooked, add the diced potatoes to the skillet and mix well, coating each cube with the savory bits left in the pan.
6. Season the mixture with paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly so the spices distribute evenly across the turkey and potatoes.
7. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Once the potatoes are tender, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach is wilted and fully combined with the turkey and potatoes.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover again and let it melt for a couple of minutes until it’s gooey and melted.
10. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-PAN GROUND TURKEY & POTATOES
This dish is wonderfully adaptable and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accents. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply indulging in a quiet meal for one, these ideas will elevate your serving game:
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The fresh, crunchy leaves contrast wonderfully with the warm, cheesy skillet dish, cutting through the richness for a balanced plate.
- Offer a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top. The tangy creaminess complements the smoky paprika and adds a cool, luscious layer to each bite.
- Serve alongside warm crusty bread or soft tortillas. Both are perfect for scooping up the juiciest bits and soaking up any leftover broth, turning every morsel into a satisfying mouthful.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and extra parsley. The bright citrus lift and herbaceous sparkle refresh the palate, making each forkful feel light and vibrant.
HOW TO STORE ONE-PAN GROUND TURKEY & POTATOES
Storing this hearty skillet meal is simple, and with the right approach you’ll preserve its flavors and textures for days. Here are some reliable methods to keep leftovers tasting just as wonderful:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation, and pack in shallow containers for faster, even chilling.
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through, which helps maintain the original texture without drying out.
- Keep any extra cheese or fresh toppings separate until serving. This preserves their texture and flavor, ensuring that the cheese melts perfectly and the parsley remains bright when you reheat.
CONCLUSION
One-Pan Ground Turkey & Potatoes is proof that quick dinner solutions can be both satisfying and nutritious. From the first sizzle of onions and peppers to the final flourish of melted cheddar and parsley, this recipe offers layers of flavor and texture that come together in under an hour. Whether you’re searching for a comforting lunch, a busy-weeknight dinner, or a make-ahead meal that freezes beautifully, this one-pan meal ticks all the boxes. It’s beginner-friendly, uses simple ingredients, and provides a balanced blend of protein, veggies, and carbs wrapped up in that irresistible cheesy goodness.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—having the recipe on hand means you can dive right into cooking whenever the craving strikes. You’ll also find an FAQ below to address any questions you might have. If you try this recipe or need help tweaking it to suit your taste, please leave a comment or send feedback. I love hearing how recipes come to life in your kitchen, and I’m always happy to help troubleshoot or share tips for making this dish your own. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!
One-Pan Ground Turkey & Potatoes
Description
This one-pan dish brings together savory ground turkey, crispy potatoes, and vibrant spinach, all topped with melty cheddar cheese. A simple, delicious dinner awaits!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it's browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
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Once the turkey is cooked, add the diced potatoes to the skillet and mix well.
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Season the mixture with paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
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Once the potatoes are tender, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach is wilted and combined with the turkey and potatoes.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover and let it melt for a couple of minutes.
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Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Note
- For added flavor, you can include a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter taste.
- This recipe is versatile; consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Cooking times for potatoes may vary slightly based on the size of your diced pieces.
