Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This ground turkey crock pot recipe is your answer. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both satisfying and good for you. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks embracing homemade cooking. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Brown the turkey: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your final dish.
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Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Transfer the turkey mixture to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the turkey is cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as brown rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. This healthy meal is perfect for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You could also incorporate a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion for an extra kick.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Adding these ingredients boosts the nutritional value and provides a more colorful and textured meal.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving for a creamier texture.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 10-12g
This ground turkey crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Its simplicity makes it a go-to choice for busy weeknights, while the delicious flavors and nutritional benefits make it a winner for the whole family. Enjoy!