Hearty Turkey Potato Skillet

This rustic ground turkey and potato skillet has become my go-to comfort meal for busy weeknights when I need something satisfying without a lot of fuss. The combination of lean protein, hearty potatoes, and bright green peas creates a complete meal in one pan that always leaves everyone asking for seconds.

I first created this dish during a particularly hectic week when I was craving something comforting but nutritious. My husband immediately declared it a keeper, and it's since become part of our regular dinner rotation when we need a reliable crowd-pleaser.

• Ground turkey provides lean protein without the heaviness of beef while still delivering satisfying flavor
• Olive oil helps create a golden crust on both the turkey and potatoes
• Onion and garlic form the aromatic base that gives the dish its homey quality
• Diced potatoes add hearty substance and absorb all the savory flavors in the pan
• Frozen peas bring a pop of color freshness and sweetness that balances the dish
• Ground cumin lends an earthy warmth that complements the turkey beautifully
• Paprika adds a subtle smoky note and gorgeous color to the finished dish
• Fresh cilantro brightens everything with its distinctive herbaceous finish

How To Make Ground Turkey with Potatoes

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers across the surface. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. You want the onions to become translucent and slightly golden around the edges which indicates their natural sugars are developing. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more until you can smell its distinctive aroma filling your kitchen. Be careful not to let the garlic brown as it will become bitter.

Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet breaking it apart with your spatula into small crumbles. Continue stirring and breaking up any larger chunks as it cooks. This process takes about 7 to 10 minutes and you'll notice the meat changing from pink to light brown. Once fully cooked sprinkle the cumin paprika salt and pepper evenly over the meat and stir thoroughly to distribute the spices ensuring every bite will be properly seasoned.

Add the Potatoes

Scatter the diced potatoes evenly throughout the skillet mixing them with the seasoned turkey. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid which traps steam and helps the potatoes cook through without drying out the dish. Let everything cook for approximately 15 minutes stirring every 3 to 4 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Test a potato cube with a fork to ensure they're tender throughout before moving to the next step.

Toss in the Peas

Sprinkle the frozen peas across the skillet and gently fold them into the turkey and potato mixture. The residual heat will warm the peas through in about 5 minutes. There's no need to thaw them beforehand as their natural moisture adds a bit of steam that helps finish the dish. The vibrant green color signals the dish is nearly complete.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the entire dish. The herb's brightness cuts through the richness of the meal and adds visual appeal. Serve immediately in bowls while still piping hot capturing all the aromatic steam and comforting warmth.

This dish reminds me of the simple comfort foods my grandmother used to make when I visited her farmhouse as a child. The humble potato was always the star ingredient in her kitchen and she taught me that good food doesn't need to be complicated to be delicious. The earthy aroma of cumin in this recipe always takes me back to her wooden table where we'd gather for meals that nourished both body and soul.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This skillet meal actually improves in flavor after a day in the refrigerator as the spices meld together. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat a portion microwave for 2 minutes stirring halfway through or warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to restore moisture. The dish also freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months when stored in freezer-safe containers. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Clever Substitutions

If ground turkey isn't available ground chicken works perfectly as a direct substitute with almost identical cooking times. For a heartier flavor profile ground beef or lamb can replace the turkey though you may want to drain excess fat after browning. Sweet potatoes can stand in for regular potatoes adding nutritional variety and a pleasant sweetness. Not a fan of cilantro? Fresh parsley offers a milder herbal note that complements the dish beautifully. The frozen peas can be swapped for corn green beans or even chopped bell peppers depending on what your family enjoys.

Serving Suggestions

While this skillet stands perfectly on its own as a complete meal there are several ways to elevate it for different occasions. Serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a light dinner. For heartier appetites spoon the mixture over steamed rice or quinoa to stretch the servings. My personal favorite is to top each portion with a fried egg with a runny yolk that creates a luscious sauce when broken. For brunch scoop the mixture into warmed flour tortillas with a sprinkle of cheese for quick breakfast burritos that will keep you satisfied until lunch.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey with another protein?

Yes! This versatile dish works wonderfully with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but the cooking method remains the same. If using ground beef with higher fat content, you may want to drain some excess fat after browning.

→ What type of potatoes work best for this skillet?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and are ideal for this dish. Russet potatoes can also work but may break down more during cooking, creating a slightly different texture. For faster cooking, ensure you dice the potatoes into evenly sized small cubes (about 1/2 inch).

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

This skillet is incredibly adaptable! Consider adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini along with the onions. Baby spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking. For a Mediterranean twist, add halved cherry tomatoes and olives toward the end of cooking time.

→ What can I serve with this turkey and potato skillet?

While this one-pan meal is satisfying on its own, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, crusty bread for dipping, or serve it over rice or quinoa to stretch the meal further. A dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top adds a nice creamy element.

→ How should I store leftovers and how long will they keep?

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerated leftovers will keep for 3-4 days and often taste even better as flavors continue to meld. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add a diced jalapeño with the onions, incorporate red pepper flakes with the other spices, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce toward the end of cooking. For a smoky heat, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.