It can be hard to figure out how long to cook ground turkey, which is a healthy and tasty alternative to beef. If you cook it for too long, it can get dry and tough. If you don’t cook it long enough, it can be undercooked and could be harmful to eat.
So, how long should you cook ground turkey? This article will tell you the best times to cook ground turkey so that your food is always safe, juicy, and flavorful, whether you’re making tacos, meatballs, or burgers.
Many people choose ground turkey instead of ground beef when they want a white meat option. With fewer calories and fat, it’s a great option when looking to keep dishes lighter.
Like chicken, ground turkey has two different meat types: dark meat and white meat. Dark turkey meat comes from the legs and thighs, while white turkey meat mostly comes from the breasts.
Dark turkey meat has more calories and fat than white turkey meat, but it tastes better because of this.
You can usually find both types of ground corn in any grocery store. Since they cook the same, just pick the one that works best for your dish.
For turkey meatballs, dark ground turkey works best. For this lighter turkey cauliflower skillet meal, white ground turkey works best.
Cooking ground turkey in the oven can seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before. You may be wondering, how long does it really take to cook ground turkey in the oven? Well, have no fear! In this article, I’ll provide a complete guide to cooking ground turkey in the oven, including how long it takes, what temperature to use, and some handy tips and tricks for getting perfect results every time.
Overview of Cooking Ground Turkey in the Oven
Cooking ground turkey in the oven is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to prepare this healthy, versatile protein. The oven’s dry, ambient heat surrounds and penetrates the meat, cooking it evenly throughout. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect when cooking ground turkey in the oven:
- Total cooking time: 20-40 minutes, depending on amount and thickness
- Oven temperature: 325°F-375°F
- Internal temperature: Cook to at least 165°F, measured with a meat thermometer
- Preparation: Form into meatballs, patties, or bake in a casserole or baking dish
- Result: Moist, flavorful ground turkey with lightly browned exterior
Follow my tips below for guaranteed success!
Choosing the Right Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is available in a few different fat contents, usually labeled as 93% lean/7% fat, 85%/15%, or 80%/20%. Going with 85% or 93% lean is best for oven cooking, since fattier varieties may cause excess grease. Opt for fresh ground turkey within 2 days of purchase for the best results.
How Long to Cook Ground Turkey Meatballs in the Oven
Meatballs are one of the most popular ways to cook ground turkey in the oven. Here is a timeline for oven-baked turkey meatballs:
- Prep time: 10 minutes to form into 1-2 inch balls
- Bake time: 15-20 minutes at 375°F
- Stand time: 5 minutes before serving
So the total time is about 30-35 minutes from start to finish Be sure to use a meat thermometer to confirm the inside reaches 165°F The meatballs should be lightly browned on the outside when fully cooked.
How Long to Bake Ground Turkey Burgers
To cook turkey burgers in the oven, shape the meat into patties 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Follow this timeline:
- Prep time: 10 minutes for shaping patties
- Bake time: 15-20 minutes at 375°F
- Stand time: 3 minutes before serving
The total oven time will be around 25-30 minutes for properly cooked turkey burgers They will firm up and develop a nicely browned exterior when fully baked
How Long to Cook Ground Turkey for Casseroles
For casseroles and skillet dishes like chili or tacos, you don’t need to form the ground turkey into shapes first Simply spread the raw ground turkey across the bottom of the baking dish and bake until cooked through.
- Prep time: 5 minutes to spread in dish
- Bake time: 20-25 minutes at 350°F
- Total time: 25-30 minutes
Stir periodically while baking to break up any large chunks. The turkey will turn from pink to white when it is fully cooked.
Oven Temperature for Cooking Ground Turkey
I recommend baking ground turkey between 325°F and 375°F. The lower end of this range provides gentle, even cooking, while the higher end helps create a nice browned crust on meatballs or patties. 350°F is a great middle ground.
Monitor thickness as you shape the ground turkey. Thicker pieces may require a longer bake at a lower oven temp. Thinner pieces can cook quicker at higher temps.
How to Tell When Ground Turkey is Done
Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the best and safest way to determine doneness. Simply insert it into the thickest portion of meat, avoiding bone or fat.
Ground turkey is fully cooked when it registers:
- 165°F for meatballs, burgers, casseroles
- 170°F if stuffed into things like peppers or zucchini boats
The meat will turn from pink to white when cooked through. Let rest 3-5 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips for Oven-Baked Ground Turkey
Here are a few tips to ensure moist, flavorful ground turkey every time you bake it:
- Use fresh, lean ground turkey within 2 days of purchase
- Season well with salt, pepper, herbs before baking
- Add binders like egg, breadcrumbs, or milk
- Brown lightly on the stovetop before baking
- Brush with oil or broth for extra moisture
- Allow to rest before serving to lock in juices
With this complete guide to oven cooking times, temperatures, and techniques, you can serve up restaurant-quality ground turkey entrées at home. From meatballs to casseroles and more, your oven-baked turkey dishes will be juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Give it a try tonight!
How to cook ground turkey
Let’s talk about the best way to cook ground turkey before we get to how long to cook it.
A skillet on the stove is the best and fastest way to cook ground turkey, just like any other ground meat.
Preheat a skillet with a cooking oil of your choosing over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground turkey to the pan. Slowly cut the turkey into smaller pieces while it browns. You can use a wooden spoon, a spatula, or a ground meat chopper for this.
Keep cooking the turkey until all the small pieces are browned and any water that was still inside has been released. During the cooking process, the meat will turn from a pinkish color to a dull brownish gray. When there’s no pink remaining, the ground turkey is fully cooked.
When the turkey is almost done, drain any extra water in the pan in the sink. Then, put the pan back on the heat.
At this point, the ground meat can be seasoned however you desire. Stir in the seasoning and continue cooking until crispy bits form on the edges of the turkey pieces.
How to know when ground turkey is overcooked
While you certainly don’t want to undercook ground turkey, overcooking it is also a concern.
Overcooked turkey meat is tough, crumbly and dry. It’s important to keep an eye on the turkey meat while it cooks on the stove, in the oven, or on the grill. Pulling it right after the last residual pink is gone is key to not overcooking ground turkey.
How To Cook Ground Turkey
FAQ
How long does it take for ground turkey to cook?
How long does it take to cook a turkey in the oven?
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Weight
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Cook Time (Unstuffed)
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Cook Time (Stuffed)
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10-18 lbs.
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3-3½ hrs.
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3¾-4½ hrs.
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18-22 lbs.
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3½-4 hrs.
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4½-5 hrs.
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22-24 lbs.
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4-4½ hrs.
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5-5½ hrs.
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24-30 lbs.
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4½-5 hrs.
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5½-6¼ hrs.
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How to brown ground turkey in the oven?
What temperature is ground turkey done in the oven?
How long do you cook a ground turkey in the oven?
Bake the ground turkey: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the ground turkey for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the turkey layer, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
How long do you cook a ground turkey at 375?
Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to spread the ground turkey evenly on a baking sheet or in a dish for even cooking. 3. Grill: If you prefer to grill ground turkey, it typically takes around 10-12 minutes over medium heat.
How do you cook a ground turkey in a baking dish?
Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice. Mixing the seasonings into the turkey will help to flavor it throughout. Shape the turkey: Use a spoon or your hands to shape the ground turkey into an even layer in the baking dish. This will help it cook more evenly and ensure that it is fully cooked through.
How do you cook ground turkey in a crock pot?
Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). 2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. 3. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. 4. Add the onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, celery, salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
What temperature should ground turkey be cooked at?
While it’s possible to use ground turkey for raw dishes like meatballs or burgers, it is essential to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria. 5. Should I rinse ground turkey before cooking?
How long do you cook leftover ground turkey?
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. When reheating your leftover ground turkey, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat. If your leftovers seem dry, add a little bit of chicken broth or water to moisten them up.