When life gets busy, finding easy dinner ideas that everyone loves can feel like a lifesaver. That’s where these recipes come in! If you’re looking for ways to use ground turkey, you’ve come to the right place. Ground turkey instant pot meals are a total game changer—not only are they quick to make, but they’re also packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

Whether you’re searching for easy ground turkey recipes, hearty soups, or something the whole family will enjoy, this list has you covered. These ground turkey instant pot recipes simplify dinner prep without sacrificing taste. Plus, with options like casseroles, chilis, and stir-fries, there’s a recipe here for every mood and craving.

And if you’re a fan of slow cooking, some of these dishes can even double as turkey crockpot recipes! So whether you’re team Instant Pot or slow cooker, these ground turkey recipes for dinner will make your evenings stress-free and delicious. Let’s dive into these easy ground turkey recipes for dinner and get cooking!

1. Ground Turkey Chili

Who doesn’t love a warm, hearty bowl of chili? This recipe is one of my go-tos on busy weeknights. It’s loaded with flavor, super filling, and pretty easy to customize. You can control the spice level, and the best part is the leftovers taste even better the next day. Let’s get started!

Servings: 6
Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn on the sauté mode on your Instant Pot and brown the ground turkey until cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
  3. Stir in the spices and let them toast for about 30 seconds for more flavor.
  4. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Give it all a good mix.
  5. Close the lid, seal the valve, and set the Instant Pot to manual pressure for 15 minutes.
  6. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the rest.
  7. Serve with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

2. Turkey Taco Soup

This soup is like having Taco Tuesday in a bowl! It’s zesty, comforting, and full of wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s kid-approved, which is always a win in my house. Serve it with tortilla chips for a little crunch.

Servings: 4-6
Time: 35 minutes (10 minutes prep, 25 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Start by browning the ground turkey in sauté mode with olive oil until it’s no longer pink.
  2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning and let it coat the meat.
  4. Add the beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything together.
  5. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 15 minutes.
  6. Quick-release the pressure, then give it a stir. Serve with toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or lime wedges.

3. Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

There’s something about homemade meatballs that just feels so cozy. These turkey meatballs are light, tender, and simmered in a simple marinara sauce. Serve them over spaghetti or even zucchini noodles for a healthy twist.

Servings: 4
Time: 35 minutes (15 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
  2. Turn on sauté mode and lightly brown the meatballs in batches. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked—they’ll finish in the sauce.
  3. Pour marinara sauce and water into the pot, then carefully add the meatballs.
  4. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 10 minutes.
  5. Quick-release the pressure, then gently stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce. Serve warm.

4. Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Stew

Sweet potatoes and turkey are such a great combo! This stew is hearty, slightly sweet, and so good for chilly evenings. I love how the flavors blend together in the Instant Pot—it’s a true one-pot wonder.

Servings: 6
Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Turn on sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Brown the ground turkey, then set it aside.
  2. Add the onion and carrots to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add sweet potatoes and return the turkey to the pot.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good mix.
  5. Close the lid, seal the valve, and set to manual pressure for 20 minutes.
  6. Once done, quick-release the pressure. Stir and serve with some crusty bread on the side.

5. Turkey and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are one of my favorite ways to sneak more veggies into dinner. These turkey-stuffed peppers are juicy, flavorful, and so colorful on the plate!

Servings: 4
Time: 35 minutes (15 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
  2. In sauté mode, brown the ground turkey with the onion. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Mix well and remove from heat.
  4. Stuff the mixture into the peppers and place them in the Instant Pot on a trivet with 1 cup of water at the bottom.
  5. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 10 minutes.
  6. Quick-release the pressure, sprinkle cheese on top, and let it melt. Serve warm.

6. Ground Turkey and Rice Casserole

This casserole is pure comfort food and perfect for those nights when you want something easy but filling. It’s cheesy, creamy, and full of turkey goodness.

Servings: 6
Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream or milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn on sauté mode and brown the ground turkey with the onion. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Add the rice, chicken broth, and frozen veggies. Stir everything together.
  3. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 12 minutes.
  4. Once done, quick-release the pressure and stir in the cream and cheese until melted. Serve hot.

7. Turkey and Spinach Pasta

This pasta dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with spinach for a little extra nutrition. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is still pretty healthy.

Servings: 4-6
Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground turkey in sauté mode, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Add the pasta and chicken broth, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
  3. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 6 minutes.
  4. Quick-release the pressure and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach until wilted. Serve warm.

8. Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are light, fresh, and fun to eat! They’re perfect for when you’re craving something healthy but still full of flavor. My kids love customizing theirs with extra toppings.

Servings: 4
Time: 20 minutes (10 minutes prep, 10 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped (optional)
  • 1 head butter lettuce or romaine leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Turn on sauté mode and cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and water chestnuts. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Scoop the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves and serve. You can add toppings like shredded carrots, green onions, or sesame seeds for extra crunch!

9. Instant Pot Turkey Bolognese

This rich and hearty sauce tastes like it simmered all day, but the Instant Pot makes it happen in no time. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a meal that feels fancy but is oh-so-easy.

Servings: 6
Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Use sauté mode to brown the ground turkey, then set it aside.
  2. Cook the onion, carrot, and garlic in the same pot until softened.
  3. Return the turkey to the pot, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 15 minutes.
  5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the rest. Serve over cooked pasta with Parmesan on top.

10. Turkey and Quinoa Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is a protein-packed dinner that comes together fast. The quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a little extra texture. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel good after eating it!

Servings: 4
Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa and set it aside.
  2. Use sauté mode to brown the ground turkey. Add salt and pepper.
  3. Add the quinoa, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables. Stir to combine.
  4. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 8 minutes.
  5. Quick-release the pressure and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Serve hot.

11. Ground Turkey and Black Bean Burrito Bowls

This is one of those meals where everyone can customize their bowl just the way they like it. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep too.

Servings: 6
Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Optional toppings: salsa, shredded cheese, avocado

Instructions:

  1. Turn on sauté mode and brown the ground turkey. Add onion and cook until softened.
  2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the rice, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
  4. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 10 minutes.
  5. Quick-release the pressure, fluff the rice, and serve with your favorite toppings.

12. Turkey Zucchini Lasagna

Who needs pasta when zucchini slices work so well? This low-carb lasagna is cheesy, meaty, and absolutely delicious. My family didn’t even miss the noodles!

Servings: 4
Time: 50 minutes (20 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly lengthwise
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground turkey in sauté mode and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in marinara sauce.
  2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, and half the mozzarella.
  3. Layer the zucchini slices, turkey mixture, and ricotta mixture in a greased Instant Pot-safe dish. Repeat layers and top with the remaining mozzarella.
  4. Place the dish on a trivet with 1 cup of water in the Instant Pot. Cook on manual pressure for 20 minutes.
  5. Quick-release the pressure, then let it cool slightly before serving.

13. Ground Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Quick, healthy, and so flavorful, this turkey and broccoli stir-fry is a lifesaver on busy nights. It’s like takeout but way better (and cheaper!). The sesame oil really takes it to the next level.

Servings: 4
Time: 25 minutes (10 minutes prep, 15 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In sauté mode, brown the ground turkey and season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add sesame oil, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add broccoli and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
  4. Return the turkey to the pot and stir in soy sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch slurry.
  5. Cook for 2 more minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Serve over rice or noodles.

14. Turkey and Cabbage Soup

This soup is light yet filling, perfect for those days when you want something warm but not too heavy. The cabbage adds a nice crunch and sweetness, making it surprisingly satisfying.

Servings: 6
Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Use sauté mode to brown the ground turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Add onion and carrots to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in cabbage, thyme, and diced tomatoes. Return the turkey to the pot.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.
  5. Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on manual pressure for 15 minutes.
  6. Quick-release the pressure and give it a good stir. Serve warm with crusty bread.

15. Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

A classic comfort food with a twist! Using ground turkey makes this shepherd’s pie lighter but still just as hearty. The Instant Pot makes it super quick, so you can have this cozy dish any night of the week.

Servings: 6
Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp flour (optional for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place potatoes in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water. Cook on manual pressure for 10 minutes, then quick-release. Mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Use sauté mode to brown the ground turkey with onion. Add flour, cook for 1 minute, then stir in chicken broth to make a gravy.
  3. Add frozen vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Transfer the turkey mixture to an Instant Pot-safe dish. Spread the mashed potatoes on top.
  5. Place the dish on a trivet with 1 cup of water in the Instant Pot. Cook on manual pressure for 10 minutes.
  6. Quick-release, let cool slightly, and serve!

And there you have it—15 delicious, family-friendly ideas for using ground turkey to whip up the ultimate easy dinner! These recipes are designed to take the stress out of mealtime, letting your Instant Pot or slow cooker do most of the work while you enjoy all the compliments. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, these ground turkey instant pot recipes make dinner prep so much easier.

From hearty chilis and casseroles to comforting soups and pasta dishes, these ground turkey recipes for dinner are perfect for weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal, these easy ground turkey recipes are here to save the day!

And don’t forget, if you’re a fan of slow-cooked meals, many of these dishes double as great turkey crockpot recipes, giving you even more flexibility. Whether you use your Instant Pot or slow cooker, these turkey recipes for dinner are sure to become staples in your home.

So, grab your ingredients, get that Instant Pot going, and enjoy these easy ground turkey recipes that are as satisfying as they are simple.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *