If your New Year’s resolution is to count calories, start following a keto regime or sign up for a paleo diet, or if you simply want to up your nutrition game, put turkey in your menu repertoire. This lean and flavorful protein is a treat on its own, and it can be a culinary chameleon, effortlessly adapting to different cuisines and tastes. Turkey easily absorbs seasonings and flavors, which means it works in a plethora of dishes.
Not only is it tasty, turkey has a lean profile, which makes it a smart and wholesome choice when you want to balance indulgence and nutrition. In fact, there’s never been a better time to let turkey be the culinary hero in your kitchen and the centerpiece of your dinners.
Looking for inspiration? Let an assortment of our delicious, tried-and-true recipes convince you.
Applewood Smoke Flavor Turkey Breast Tenderloin and Vegetables
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | (24-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Applewood Smoke Flavor Turkey Breast Tenderloin |
| 3 | small carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces |
| 2 | small parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces |
| 6 | small new potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces |
| 1 | red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces |
| 2 | teaspoons olive oil |
| 1 | tablespoon chopped parsley |
Directions
Place turkey in air fryer basket. Set to 400°F. Cook 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in large bowl toss vegetables with olive oil, salt and pepper. Add to air fryer surrounding turkey. Cook 15 to 20 minutes or until turkey is fully cooked to 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer and vegetables are tender. Sprinkle with parsley.
Lemon Garlic Turkey Kabobs
Easy MealsIngredients
| ½ | cup fat-free Italian dressing |
| 2 | tablespoons fresh lemon juice |
| 3 | cloves garlic, minced |
| 2 | teaspoons finely grated lemon peel |
| 1 | (24-ounce) package JENNIE-O® All Natural Turkey Breast Tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| 1 | red bell pepper, cut into chunks |
| 1 | small red onion, cut into wedges |
| cherry tomatoes, if desired | |
| pineapple chunks, if desired |
Directions
Combine dressing, lemon juice, garlic and lemon peel. Set aside small amount of marinade to brush on kabobs while grilling.
Place tenderloin, bell pepper, onion, cherry tomatoes and pineapple in large reclosable food storage bag.
Add marinade to bag. Refrigerate 30 minutes.
Prepare grill. Drain turkey, vegetables, and fruit; discard marinade. Thread turkey, vegetables and fruit on skewers. Brush reserved marinade over kabobs.
Grill 6 minutes; turn and brush with remaining marinade and continue grilling 7 to 8 minutes or until the turkey is well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Easy MealsIngredients
| 2 | tablespoons oil, divided |
| 12 | ounces cubed JENNIE-O® Oven Roasted Turkey Breast |
| ⅓ | cup low-sodium teriyaki stir fry sauce, divided |
| 1 | each red and yellow bell pepper, cut into strips |
| 6 | green onions, cut diagonally |
| 1 | cup pea pods |
| 10 | mushrooms, sliced |
| rice, if desired |
Directions
Heat 1 teaspoon oil in wok over medium heat. Add turkey and stir-fry 2 to 3 minutes or until meat is brown. Add 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce. Stir-fry to coat. Remove turkey from wok.
Add remaining oil to hot wok. Add red and yellow peppers, green onions, pea pods and mushrooms. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir in turkey and remaining teriyaki sauce. Heat thoroughly.
Serve with hot rice, if desired.
Asian Noodle Turkey Salad
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | (24-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Savory Roast Turkey Breast Tenderloin |
| ¼ | cup plus 2 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, divided |
| 2 | teaspoons finely chopped garlic |
| 2 | tablespoons peanut butter |
| 3 | tablespoons vegetable oil |
| 2 | tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar |
| 2 | teaspoons dark sesame oil |
| ½ | teaspoon finely grated ginger |
| ½ | teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes |
| 8 | ounces vermicelli or thin spaghetti, broken in half |
| ½ | cup julienne-cut carrots |
| 1 | red bell pepper, cut into short, thin strips |
| 1½ | cups fresh snow pea pods, cut lengthwise into thin strips |
| ½ | cup chopped and roasted peanuts |
| ½ | cup diagonally sliced green onions |
Directions
Cut tenderloins into strips and place in plastic bag.
Add 2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce and garlic; close bag securely, turning to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Prepare grill.
In large bowl, whisk together peanut butter and vegetable oil. Whisk in remaining 1/4 cup soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger and red pepper flakes. Cook vermicelli according to package .
Combine carrots and bell pepper in microwave safe dish. Cover and cook on HIGH (100%) 1 minute. Add snow peas; cover and continue cooking 1 minute or until crisp-tender.
Drain tenderloins. Grill tenderloins as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165ºF as measured by a meat thermometer.
Transfer to carving board; cut each tenderloin lengthwise in half and then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Add turkey to noodle mixture. Add peanuts and green onion to noodle mixture and toss.
Cauliflower Rice Bowl with Ground Turkey and Vegetables
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | head cauliflower, leaves and stem removed, coarsely chopped |
| 3 | tablespoons olive oil, divided |
| 1 | zucchini, chopped |
| 1 | onion, chopped |
| 1 | (3.5-ounce) package shiitake mushrooms, chopped |
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| 1 | tablespoon soy sauce; plus, more for serving, if desired |
| ½ | tablespoon tablespoon sesame oil; plus, more for serving, if desired |
| Suggested accompaniments; kimchi, gim (roasted seaweed sheets), diced scallions and toasted sesame seeds |
Directions
In bowl of food processor, place chopped cauliflower. Pulse to small pieces, similar to grains of rice.
Using three separate skillets, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in each over medium-high heat. In first skillet, sauté cauliflower rice 5 to 6 minutes, or until tender. In second skillet, cook zucchini, onions and mushrooms 6 to 8 minutes or until tender and browned. In third skillet, cook turkey 8 to 10 minutes or until thoroughly cooked and browned. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to cooked turkey. Mix together. Remove from heat.
To serve: Place some cauliflower rice on the bottom of serving dish. Top with cooked vegetables and turkey mixture. Add a light drizzle of sesame oil if desired. Add kimchi. Garnish with scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Crush gim and sprinkle over top or use gim as a wrap.
Green Chili Turkey Taco Bowls
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | tablespoon olive oil |
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| 1 | cup chopped onion |
| 1 | (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning |
| ½ | cup chopped fresh green chilies |
| Cauliflower rice, for serving | |
| Suggested Toppings: Lettuce, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, queso fresco, and chopped tomatoes. |
Directions
In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add turkey, onions and taco seasoning. Cook 5 to 7 minutes, crumbling turkey with back of spoon, until turkey is cooked through.
Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer. Stir in chilies. Cook 1 minute or until chilis are slightly softened.
Serve prepared cauliflower rice topped with turkey mixture. Add Suggested Toppings as desired.
Chunky Santa Fe Turkey Tacos
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | (17.6-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Extra Lean Turkey Breast Cutlets |
| 1 | tablespoon chili powder |
| 1 | tablespoon vegetable oil |
| 1 | diced yellow or green pepper |
| 1 | teaspoon ground cumin |
| 1 | teaspoon minced garlic |
| 2 | tablespoons finely chopped jalapeno |
| ¼ | cup picante sauce |
| 1 | large tomato, diced |
| ¼ | cup chopped fresh cilantro |
| 16 | soft flour tortillas |
| 2 | cups crumbled queso fresco cheese or shredded Mexican cheese |
Directions
Cut turkey into ½-inch thick strips; toss with chili powder.
Heat vegetable oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey, yellow pepper, cumin, garlic and jalapeno.
Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Place turkey breast cutlets in hot skillet. Cook, turning occasionally, 11 to 13 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add picante sauce. Cook, 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in tomato and cilantro.
Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until hot. Spoon mixture into tortillas; sprinkle with cheese.
Easy Turkey Tacos
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| 1 | tablespoon dried onion flakes |
| 1 | tablespoon Mexican seasoning or 2 teaspoons chili powder |
| 1 | teaspoon ground cumin |
| 2 | teaspoons minced garlic |
| ¾ | cup picante sauce |
| 12 | taco shells |
| 1½ | cups shredded Mexican or Cheddar cheese |
Directions
Spray a skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground turkey to hot skillet. Stir to crumble, approximately 14 to 16 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer. Add onion, seasoning, cumin, garlic and picante sauce.
Spoon into taco shells; top with cheese. Serve with desired toppings.
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Quinoa
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | vegetable oil |
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| 1 | onion, chopped |
| 1 | bell pepper, diced |
| 3 | cloves garlic, minced |
| 1 | tablespoon chili powder |
| 1 | tablespoon ground cumin |
| 3 | cups low-sodium chicken broth |
| 2 | (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained |
| 1 | (16-ounce) can white navy beans, drained and rinsed |
| ¾ | salsa |
| ½ | cup quinoa (uncooked) |
| toppings: chopped avocado, lime wedges, plain yogurt, chopped fresh cilantro, if desired |
Directions
In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat; add turkey, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder and cumin.
Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground turkey to hot skillet. Stir to crumble, approximately 14 to 16 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer. Transfer to slow cooker.
Add broth, tomatoes, beans, salsa and quinoa to slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW 4 hours or until chili thickens.
Ladle chili into bowls. Serve with desired toppings.
Slow Cooker Turkey Cheese Dip
EntertainingIngredients
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Ground Turkey |
| 1 | (19.5-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Hot Italian Turkey Sausage, chopped |
| 1 | (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed |
| 1 | (8-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained |
| 1 | (8-ounce) container sour cream |
| 1 | (8-ounce) container cottage cheese |
| 8 | ounces Cheddar cheese, cubed |
| 1 | medium onion, diced |
| 1 | (1-pound) package processed cheese, cubed |
| 3 | cloves garlic, minced |
| crackers or corn chips, if desired |
Directions
Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey to hot skillet. Stir to crumble, approximately 14 to 16 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer. Drain.
Place dinner sausage in hot skillet. Cook uncovered, turning occasionally, 17-19 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer.
Transfer to slow cooker.
Add cream cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, cottage cheese, Cheddar cheese, onion, processed cheese and garlic to slow cooker. Cover and cook on high 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until cheese is melted.
Serve with crackers or corn chips, if desired.
Turkey Meatloaf
Easy MealsIngredients
| Meatloaf | |
|---|---|
| ½ | white onion, chopped |
| 1 | carrot, peeled, chopped |
| ½ | red bell pepper, chopped |
| ½ | cup arugula |
| 2 | cloves garlic, minced |
| 2 | (16-ounce) packages JENNIE-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| 1 | cup gluten free breadcrumbs |
| 1 | teaspoon ground thyme |
| 1 | teaspoon chili powder |
| 1 | freshly ground pepper |
| 1 | teaspoon salt |
| ½ | cup plain unsweetened almond milk |
| ¼ | cup egg substitute or 1 egg |
| olive oil spray |
| Glaze | |
|---|---|
| ½ | ketchup |
| 1 | teaspoon Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 | teaspoon hot sauce |
| 1 | teaspoon cumin |
| 1 | teaspoon honey |
| 2 | tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley |
Directions
For the Meatloaf
Heat oven to 350°F.
In food processor, combine onion, carrot, red bell pepper, arugula and garlic. Pulse to chopped.
In large bowl, combine ground turkey and onion mixture. Using hands, work ingredients in gently. In medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, thyme, chili powder, pepper and salt. Mix well. In small bowl, combine almond milk and egg, whisk to combine. Sprinkle dry mixture over meat and gently mix in, add the wet mixture and continue to gently mix until just combined. Do not over mi
Spray large foil or parchment lined baking sheet with olive oil spray and shape meat into a 6-inch by 11-inch x 1 ½-inch rectangle in the middle of the pan. Top with glaze.
Bake 1 hour 30 minutes and until 165°F. as measured by a meat thermometer in the center. Always cook to well-done. Let stand at room temperature 5 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
For the Glaze
For glaze, in a small bowl mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, cumin and honey and brush over meatloaf top and sides.
Tender Turkey Swedish Meatballs
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1½ | pounds Jennie-O® Lean Ground Turkey |
| ¾ | cup grated parmesan cheese, divided |
| ⅓ | cup Italian breadcrumbs |
| ½ | cup chopped white onion, divided |
| 1 | egg |
| 2 | tablespoons dried basil, divided |
| 1½ | teaspoons black pepper, divided |
| 1 | teaspoon smoked paprika |
| ½ | teaspoon ground thyme |
| ¾ | teaspoon sea salt, divided |
| 1 | tablespoon olive oil |
| 2 | tablespoons minced garlic |
| 1½ | cups beef broth |
| 2 | teaspoons Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 | teaspoon Dijon mustard |
| ½ | teaspoon garlic powder |
| 1 | tablespoon cornstarch |
| 1 | tablespoon water |
| ¼ | cup heavy whipping cream |
Directions
In large bowl combine turkey, ¼ cup parmesan, breadcrumbs, ¼ cup onion, egg, 1 tablespoon basil, 1 teaspoon pepper, paprika, thyme and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well. Form into large meatballs.
In large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Sear meatballs 2 minutes on each side. Remove from pan.
In the same skillet, add garlic and remaining onion. Cook 4 minutes. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder and remaining basil, salt and black pepper.
Return meatballs to skillet. Cover. Cook 10 to 12 minutes or until meatballs are golden brown and cooked throughout. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
In small bowl combine cornstarch and water. Stir into skillet. Let mixture thicken. Add cream and remaining parmesan. ook 3 to 5 minutes.
Turkey Sausage Breakfast Burrito
Easy MealsIngredients
| ½ | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® All Natural* Turkey Sausage |
| 1½ | cups egg substitute or 6 eggs, scrambled |
| 6 | tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese |
| 6 | tablespoons salsa |
| 6 | whole wheat tortillas |
Directions
Spray a skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
Place 1/2 inch thick patties in hot skillet. Turn occasionally and cook approximately 15 to 17 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add scrambled eggs, cheese and salsa.
Stir to combine.
Heat tortillas according to package directions.
Spoon egg mixture evenly down center of each tortilla; roll up.
Egg and Turkey Sausage Bake
Easy MealsIngredients
| 1 | (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® All Natural* Turkey Sausage |
| 2 | cups egg substitute or 8 eggs |
| 3 | cups milk |
| ¼ | cup chopped fresh parsley |
| salt and freshly ground pepper, if desired | |
| 8 | cups cubed French bread |
| 1 | cup chopped red bell pepper |
| 1½ | cups shredded low-fat Swiss cheese, divided |
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Grease 9 x 13-inch baking pan; set aside.
Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Place patties in hot skillet. Turn occasionally and cook approximately 15 to 17 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Crumble sausage into pieces.
In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and parsley. Add salt and pepper, if desired. Stir in sausage, bread cubes, red pepper and 1 cup cheese. Pour into baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into squares to serve.
Turkey Bacon & Sausage Breakfast Pizza
EntertainingIngredients
| ¼ | cup butter, divided |
| 2 | tablespoons flour |
| ½ | cup milk |
| 1 | (12-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Turkey Bacon |
| ½ | (12-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Turkey Breakfast Sausage Patties |
| 1½ | cups egg substitute or 6 eggs, beaten |
| 1 | (12-inch) prebaked pizza shell |
| 1½ | cups sliced fresh mushrooms |
| 1½ | cups shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend |
| salsa, if desired |
Directions
Heat oven to 400°F.
In small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add flour; cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute. Stir in milk.
Cook, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until mixture boils and thickens; cool.
Preheat a nonstick skillet or electric griddle over medium heat (375°F). Heat slices of bacon for 6-7 minutes or until desired crispness, turning frequently. Drain on paper towels; chop.
Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Place patties on hot skillet. Turn occasionally and cook approximately 13 to 15 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer in the center of the patty. Chop. In skillet, melt remaining butter. Add eggs. Cook, stirring until soft scrambled.
In bowl, combine white sauce and eggs; mix well. Spoon onto pizza shell. Top with bacon, sausage, mushrooms and cheese.
Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and crust is golden. Serve with salsa, if desired.
Make Turkey Your Kitchen’s Secret Weapon
From cutlets and loins to ground turkey and sausage, turkey is super versatile. Think of ground turkey as your cooking buddy for all kinds of dishes, while cutlets and loins bring tender goodness to classics or new experiments. And don’t forget the zesty kick of turkey sausage. The possibilities are endless.
So, whether your priority is adding more lean protein or spicing things up – or both! – turkey has your back, offering simple and lip-smacking options for every meal. With so many different ways to prepare and incorporate turkey, cooking will become an easy, tasty adventure your taste buds will thank you for.