As the sun sets, the smell of a delicious meal fills your home. The slow cooker is working its magic, turning simple ingredients into a tasty feast. Tonight, ground turkey takes center stage, bringing lean, wholesome goodness to your plate.
This collection of slow cooker recipes shows you how to make the most of ground turkey. You’ll find everything from classic dishes to new favorites. These meals are healthier and perfect for any day, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together. Get ready to make chili, tacos, and soups that everyone will love.
Let the slow cooker do the work and enjoy the flavors of ground turkey. These recipes are great for both experienced cooks and beginners. They’ll inspire you to use your slow cooker and enjoy the comforting, flavorful dishes ground turkey has to offer.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Cooking Ground Turkey in a Slow Cooker
Ground turkey is a great choice for slow-cooking. It’s lean and nutritious, making it better than ground beef. It’s perfect for those who want a healthy meal or easy cooking.
Healthier Alternative to Other Meats
Ground turkey contains fewer fats and calories compared to ground beef. A 93% lean/7% fat blend gives you 23 grams of protein and only 7 grams of fat. It’s great for weight management or a heart-healthy diet.
Convenient Meal Prep Options
The slow cooker makes meal prep easy. Ground turkey cooks fast, reaching 165°F in 2 to 3 hours. This method is perfect for quick, healthy meals on busy nights.
Enhanced Flavor Through Slow Cooking
Slow cooking enhances the flavors of ground turkey. It mixes well with spices and herbs, making dishes rich and tender. It’s perfect for chili, tacos, meatballs, and casseroles.
“Slow cooking ground turkey is a game-changer. The meat stays juicy and the flavors intensify, creating meals that are both nutritious and delicious.”
Essential Ingredients for Delicious Dishes
Creating tasty slow cooker recipes with ground turkey starts with the right ingredients. Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier, tastier dish. Then, add aromatic veggies and savory seasonings to make unforgettable meals.
Choosing the Right Ground Turkey
Opt for ground turkey that’s at least 93% lean. This mix of flavor and nutrition makes your dishes satisfying and healthy. Stay away from ground turkey with more fat to avoid greasy meals.
Flavorful Add-ins and Seasonings
- Onions and bell peppers: These veggies add flavor and texture to your ground turkey dishes.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic or garlic powder boosts the savory taste in your recipes.
- Tomato paste: A bit of tomato paste adds a rich, umami flavor to your slow cooker meals.
- Spices: Try chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika for unique flavors.
- Canned tomatoes: Diced or crushed tomatoes add moisture and acidity to your dishes.
- Beans: Kidney, black, or pinto beans make your slow cooker ground turkey recipes heartier and more protein-rich.
- Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to keep your dishes moist and flavorful.
With lean ground turkey, aromatic veggies, and bold seasonings, you’re set to make delicious slow cooker meals. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite flavor combinations.
Classic Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Try this amazing slow cooker ground turkey chili recipe to level up your chili game. It uses lean ground turkey instead of beef, making it healthier and full of flavor. It’s great for cozy nights or game-day gatherings. Follow a few simple steps to make a hearty, satisfying chili that will impress your taste buds.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up into small pieces until it’s no longer pink. Drain any extra fat.
2. Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they’re soft.
3. Move the cooked turkey and vegetables to a slow cooker. Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and stir well.
4. Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. This will let the flavors mix and the chili thicken to your liking.
Tips for Perfect Chili
- To make the chili thicker, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes. This lets some liquid evaporate.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili powder, cumin, or salt and pepper if you like.
- Top the chili with your favorite toppings. Try shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.
Enjoy this classic slow cooker ground turkey chili recipe for a delicious and healthy meal. It’s a mix of lean ground turkey, savory spices, and tender vegetables. It’s perfect for any occasion, making it a comforting and flavorful dish.
Savory Ground Turkey Tacos
Make your taco night special with slow-cooked ground turkey. This easy recipe lets you cook the taco meat in your slow cooker. It’s filled with rich flavors that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients
The secret to great ground turkey tacos is in the ingredients. Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier choice. Add onions, bell peppers, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Tomato sauce or salsa adds moisture and a tangy taste.
Slow Cooking Instructions
- In your slow cooker, mix the ground turkey, onions, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally until the turkey is tender and flavors blend.
- Shred the turkey with a fork to make it even and well-coated in sauce.
- Serve the turkey in taco shells or burritos. Top with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream or Greek yogurt.
The slow cooking makes the turkey tender and flavorful. You can prepare this filling in advance. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals.
“The slow-cooked ground turkey taco filling is a game-changer – it’s so juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff.” – Sarah, Food Blogger
Hearty Turkey and Vegetable Soup
As the cold months arrive, nothing warms you up like a ground turkey slow cooker soup. This healthy ground turkey slow cooker recipe is tasty and full of good stuff for your body.
Essential Ingredients
To make this tasty soup, you’ll need a few key things:
- 1 pound of ground turkey
- 8 cups of chicken broth
- 1 diced onion
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 diced celery sticks
- 2 diced carrots
- 3 chopped white potatoes
- 1 (28 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 3 cups of fresh or frozen spinach
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme
Cooking Method
First, brown the ground turkey in a skillet with olive oil until it’s fully cooked, about 5-10 minutes. Then, put the turkey in a slow cooker. Add the rest of the ingredients, mix well, and let it cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Wait until the veggies are soft and the flavors mix well.
Storage Tips
This ground turkey slow cooker soup can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
Looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a healthy option for meal prep? This healthy ground turkey slow cooker recipe will be a hit with your family.
Ground Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Craving a comforting and flavorful meal? Look no further than these delectable slow cooker turkey meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Prepare to delight your taste buds with this easy-to-make recipe. It showcases the versatility of ground turkey in slow cooker recipes.
Ingredients List
- 1⅓ pounds of 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 2 jars (24 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
Preparing the Meatballs
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough. Carefully form the mixture into 30-34 evenly sized meatballs.
Cooking in the Slow Cooker
Place the prepared meatballs in a slow cooker and pour the marinara sauce ingredients (crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and bay leaves) over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have blended together.
Serve the slow cooker turkey meatballs over cooked pasta, in sub sandwiches, or on their own for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy the convenience and mouthwatering results of this simple yet impressive slow cooker recipe.
Ground Turkey Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with a tasty and healthy breakfast. This Ground Turkey Breakfast Casserole is easy to make in your slow cooker. It’s packed with ground turkey, eggs, cheese, and veggies for a filling meal. It’s great for meal prep, making mornings quick and nutritious.
Morning Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 12 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 30 oz. package of shredded hash browns
- 1 lb. breakfast sausage or ham (optional)
Cooking Process
To make this ground turkey in slow cooker recipes breakfast casserole, layer the ingredients in a 6-quart slow cooker. Start with the hash browns, then add the ground turkey, sausage or ham (if using), and top with eggs and cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, until the eggs are set.
Serving Suggestions
This healthy ground turkey slow cooker recipes breakfast casserole is tasty on its own. You can also serve it with toast, fresh fruit, or your favorite breakfast sides. Add diced green onions, chives, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
“This slow cooker ground turkey breakfast casserole has become a staple in our household. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the whole family loves it. The leftovers also reheat beautifully for quick weekday breakfasts.”
Low-Carb Ground Turkey Cabbage Roll Casserole
Looking for a hearty dish that’s still healthy? Try the low-carb ground turkey cabbage roll casserole. It’s a twist on the classic cabbage roll, using lean ground turkey and low-carb ingredients. This makes it perfect for a keto or low-carb diet.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Ground turkey is a great choice instead of ground beef. It’s higher in protein and lower in fat and calories. Paired with chopped cabbage, cauliflower rice, and tomato sauce, it’s full of fiber and nutrients but low in carbs. The slow cooking makes the flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that’s both healthy and tasty.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Ground turkey – The protein-rich star of the dish, providing a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef.
- Chopped cabbage – A low-carb vegetable that adds fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying texture to the casserole.
- Cauliflower rice – A versatile low-carb substitute for regular rice, keeping the dish keto-friendly.
- Tomato sauce – The flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together, providing a savory and slightly sweet element.
- Seasonings – A blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and other herbs and spices enhances the overall taste.
Cooking Instructions
To make this tasty low-carb casserole, just layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready to enjoy. The slow cooking ensures the flavors mix well, making it a comforting and healthy dish.
Creative Ground Turkey Recipes to Try
Want to make your slow cooker meals more exciting? Try these creative ground turkey recipes. They show how versatile this lean protein can be. You can make savory stuffed peppers, comforting pot pie, and flavorful stir-fries. These dishes are new and exciting ways to enjoy ground turkey in slow cooker recipes and healthy ground turkey slow cooker recipes.
Spicy Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Take your slow cooker meals to the next level with these spicy turkey-stuffed peppers. Brown the ground turkey with onions, garlic, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Stuff the seasoned turkey into fresh bell peppers and slow cook until they’re tender and the flavors are perfect.
Turkey Pot Pie
Enjoy a twist on the classic pot pie with a turkey version. Use ground turkey instead of beef or chicken. Layer sautéed turkey, veggies, and creamy sauce in your slow cooker. Top it with a flaky biscuit crust. The slow cooking melds the flavors, making it a delicious dish.
Ground Turkey Stir-Fry
For a quick and healthy meal, try a ground turkey stir-fry in your slow cooker. Brown the turkey with garlic and ginger, then add fresh veggies like broccoli and bell peppers. Mix in a savory sauce made with soy sauce and sesame oil. The slow cooker infuses the dish with bold Asian flavors, making it nutritious and tasty.
Try these unique ground turkey in slow cooker recipes and healthy ground turkey slow cooker recipes to find new favorites. Ground turkey’s versatility lets you explore many flavors and cuisines. All while enjoying the convenience of your slow cooker.
Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Recipes
To make delicious slow cooker meals with ground turkey, start with the right equipment. Pick a slow cooker that fits your recipe’s ingredients. This ensures even cooking and flavor.
Browning the ground turkey before adding it to the slow cooker is key. It helps keep the flavors rich and savory.
Selecting the Right Cooker
The size of your slow cooker matters for ground turkey recipes. Choose a 4-6 quart size. It gives your ingredients room to simmer and blend flavors well.
This size also helps with even heat and prevents the dish from drying out.
Meal Timing and Temperature
Adjust cooking times and temperatures to fit your schedule. For longer recipes, use the low setting. It lets flavors develop slowly over hours.
If you’re in a hurry, the high setting can cook your meal faster. But, don’t open the lid too often. It can lose heat and make cooking take longer.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Don’t add dairy or fresh herbs too early. They lose flavor and texture if cooked for too long. Add them towards the end for the best taste.
Also, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker. It can cause uneven cooking and dry out your dishes.
You can make many tasty ground turkey dishes in the slow cooker. Try classic chili, taco meat, or turkey and vegetable soup. Also, make meatballs in marinara sauce, a breakfast casserole, or a low-carb cabbage roll casserole.
Cooking ground turkey in a slow cooker is healthy. It’s also easy to prepare meals ahead of time. The long cooking time makes the flavors richer.
Choose lean ground turkey for your slow cooker dishes. Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices for flavor.
For a hearty chili, use ground turkey, onions, bell peppers, beans, and tomatoes. Brown the turkey and vegetables first. Then, cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Mix lean ground turkey, taco seasoning, onions, and peppers. Add tomato sauce or salsa for flavor. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
For a nutritious soup, use ground turkey, mixed vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Brown the turkey first. Then, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Mix ground turkey with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Form the meatballs. Place them in the slow cooker with marinara sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Use ground turkey, chopped cabbage, cauliflower rice, and tomato sauce. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Try spicy turkey stuffed peppers, a turkey pot pie with a biscuit topping, or a ground turkey stir-fry with Asian seasonings.
Choose the right slow cooker size and brown the turkey before adding. Adjust cooking times and avoid lifting the lid often. Add dairy and fresh herbs towards the end.
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Classic Ground Turkey Chili
Equipment
- 4-6 Slow Cooker quart size
- Large Skillet for browning the turkey
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (diced tomatoes 15 oz each
- 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened
- Move the cooked turkey and vegetables to a slow cooker. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate and thicken the chili.
- Serve with desired toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions.
Notes
- For a thicker chili, leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Customize toppings to your liking: try diced avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.