[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text single_style=”1″]One day I was searching for healthy ground turkey recipes and I was surprised to really not find much. So after a little research for ground turkey dinner ideas I came up with this. A quick and healthy weeknight meal, this ground turkey recipe is something my family adores. It’s super-simple to throw together and is a healthy, wholesome way to get dinner on the table quick.
Ground turkey is a healthy and versatile meat that can be used in everything from burgers to chili However, improper cooking can lead to dangerous foodborne illnesses So how long should you cook ground turkey to make sure it’s safe to eat? This definitive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why Proper Cooking Time Matters
Ground turkey like all ground meats, can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria are destroyed and made safe to eat only when the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Undercooked ground turkey can make you seriously ill so following proper cooking times and temperatures is crucial.
Cooking times vary based on the method used. Stovetop, oven, grill, slow cooker – each requires a different cooking time to safely prepare ground turkey. This guide will outline the ideal times and temps for every cooking method.
Stovetop
Stovetop is one of the most common ways to cook ground turkey. Here are some tips:
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Use Medium Heat: Preheating the pan to medium heat before adding the turkey allows it to cook evenly without burning.
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Break Up the Meat: As the turkey cooks, break it up into smaller crumbles using a spatula or wooden spoon. This prevents large clumps.
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10 Minutes Total: Cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, for a total stovetop cooking time of 10 minutes. This ensures the inside reaches 165°F.
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Check the Temperature: Use a food thermometer to validate the internal temperature before serving. Insert into the thickest part of the turkey.
Following these stovetop guidelines will result in perfectly cooked ground turkey every time.
Oven
Roasting ground turkey in the oven produces delicious, evenly cooked meat. Here’s how:
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Preheat to 375°F: Allowing the oven to fully preheat before adding the turkey prevents uneven cooking.
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Use a Baking Sheet: Spread the turkey evenly across a rimmed baking sheet for the best results. This allows heat to circulate.
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20-25 Minutes: At 375°F, ground turkey takes 20-25 minutes to reach a safe internal temperature. Setting a timer prevents overcooking.
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165°F Minimum: Double check the internal temp with an oven-safe thermometer before serving. The thickest part should read 165°F.
With these simple oven tips, you’ll achieve tasty, moist ground turkey easily.
Grill
Grilling ground turkey burgers or kebabs adds delicious smoky flavor. Follow these grilling guidelines:
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Medium Heat: Grill over a medium flame to prevent burning the exterior before the inside is cooked.
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Form Patties: Shape the ground turkey into patties or kebabs so it cooks evenly on all sides.
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10-12 Minutes: Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Time will vary slightly by thickness.
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Rest 5 Minutes: Allow patties or kebabs to rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute.
Grilling is a quick and tasty way to prepare ground turkey. Just be sure to monitor temperature closely.
Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker makes simmering flavored ground turkey chili or stew easy. Here are some tips:
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Low Heat: Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours to allow flavors to develop without overcooking.
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High Heat: If short on time, high heat for 2-3 hours also cooks the turkey thoroughly.
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Stir Occasionally: Periodically stir and break up the turkey to prevent clumping as it cooks.
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Check Temperature: Test the internal temperature using a thermometer before serving. 165°F minimum.
Slow cooking is perfect for preparing tender, pull-apart ground turkey for flavorful stews and chilis.
Key Takeaways
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Cook ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F to eliminate bacteria. This applies to all cooking methods.
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On the stovetop, use medium heat and cook for 10 minutes total, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
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In the oven, preheat to 375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes until 165°F.
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On the grill, form patties or kebabs and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes total.
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In a slow cooker, cook on low 4-6 hours or high 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until 165°F.
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Always use a food thermometer to validate proper internal temperature before serving cooked ground turkey.
Following these guidelines will ensure your ground turkey is perfectly and safely cooked every time. Proper cooking times and temperatures are key when handling ground meats. If in doubt, stick a food thermometer in it! Enjoy your delicious and healthy ground turkey.
How Long Does Ground Turkey Last?
Ground turkey will last about 3 to 4 days after cooking it. Make sure you keep it in an airtight container. And if you can’t finish it, there’s always the freezer!
How do you make ground turkey more moist?
Don’t overcook your ground turkey and it will stay moist. It should take no more than 15 minutes to cook. Anything beyond that will dry it out.
How To Cook Ground Turkey
FAQ
How long does it take ground turkey to cook?
Your ground turkey will need about 14-16 minutes in total to cook. It will be cooked when it is all browned evenly, juices run clear and when your thermometer is at least 165 degrees F. The best method is to scoop some of your ground turkey into a small bowl and ensure your meat thermometer reaches 165 degrees.
How to know when ground turkey is cooked?
So, how would you like that turkey burger cooked? TRICK QUESTION – the answer is always 165°F. All the way. Done.Mar 23, 2021
How long to cook ground meat in a pan?
A pound of ground meat, at a medium low temperature, will take about 6 to 9 minutes depending on the temperature and thickness of the pan, and the temperature …Aug 16, 2023
How to tell if ground turkey is done without a thermometer?
For Turkey: Juices Run Clear: Pierce the thickest part of the thigh with a knife. If the juices run clear and not pink, the turkey is likely done. Leg Movement: Try wiggling the leg. If it moves easily and feels loose, the turkey is likely cooked through.
How long does it take to cook a ground turkey?
Grill: If you prefer to grill ground turkey, it typically takes around 10-12 minutes over medium heat. Make sure to form patties or kebabs to ensure even cooking. Similar to other methods, monitor the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What are the health benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey has multiple benefits. It is a good source of minerals, and B vitamins, rich in proteins, low in fat and it is lower in calories than common turkey.
How do you cook ground turkey in the oven?
When you’re short on time but want to throw together a delicious and nutritious meal, the best way to cook ground turkey is on the stove or in the oven. Cook ground turkey until the temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, per the USDA. Use a meat thermometer to check.
How do you cook a dry ground turkey?
Use oil when cooking – unlike beef, the dryer nature of ground turkey needs either oil or butter in the pan to properly brown without sticking and drying out. The extra fat helps provide flavor as well. Don’t let it get dried out – if during the cooking process, the turkey looks like it’s drying out, add broth to the pan to help it stay moist.
How long do you cook a ground turkey in a chopper?
Once hot, add the ground turkey to the pan and break into large pieces using a spatula or meat chopper for 1 minute. Cook until starting to brown, about 2 minutes. Continue cooking and breaking into smaller pieces for another 1-2 minutes until meat turns grayish/brown and there is no pink remaining.
How long to cook ground turkey in oven if frozen?
The suggested cooking time for ground turkey in the oven is 25-30 minutes at 375°F. However, the exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey patties or meatballs. Can I Cook Ground Turkey In The Oven If It Is Frozen? It is not recommended to cook frozen ground turkey in the oven.