15 Turkey Recipes That Go Far Beyond the Usual Sandwich

Turkey can do a lot more than fill a sandwich or sit at the center of a holiday table. These recipes take it in all kinds of directions, from Thai-inspired meatballs to Cajun-spiced roasts and easy air fryer burgers. Whether you’re using ground turkey, tenderloin, or sliced breast, these dishes are simple to prep and full of flavor. It’s a fresh take on a classic ingredient that works for weeknights, meal prep, and more.

Turkey Smash Burgers

A cheeseburger on a wooden surface with lettuce, tomato, red onion, melted cheese, and a beef patty inside a sandwich bun. — Turkey Smash Burgers. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

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These thin, crispy-edged patties are made with seasoned ground turkey and cooked on a hot skillet or griddle. The smash technique creates a golden crust that locks in moisture. Top with cheese, pickles, or your favorite sauce. Quick to make and big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Smash Burgers

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Ground turkey is blended with Thai spices and simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce. The flavors are bold but balanced, with a touch of sweetness and heat. Serve over rice or noodles for a full meal. A colorful and comforting twist on meatballs.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Turkey pot pie

A slice of chicken pot pie with a golden crust sits on a white plate, with another serving, forks, herbs, and salt and pepper shakers nearby. — Turkey pot pie. Photo credit: Cook Dinner Tonight.

Tender turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce are tucked into a golden crust. The filling is rich and satisfying, and the crust adds a flaky bite. It’s a great use for leftover turkey. Serve warm straight from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Turkey pot pie

Turkey Tenderloin

This lean cut roasts quickly and stays tender when cooked with the right seasoning. It’s easy to slice and plate with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes. A nice change from chicken or pork. Leftovers work well for sandwiches or salads.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tenderloin

Cajun Turkey Breast

This turkey breast gets rubbed with Cajun spices and roasted until juicy. The seasoning brings a bold, smoky flavor without needing a sauce. It’s flavorful enough to serve on its own or slice for wraps. Great for spice fans.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Turkey Breast

Oven Roasted Sliced Turkey Breast

A plate of sliced roasted turkey breast arranged in rows, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs. — Oven Roasted Sliced Turkey Breast. Photo credit: The Foodie Affair.

Thin slices of turkey breast roast until just golden on the edges. The seasoning keeps things simple and savory. This works well for sandwiches, salads, or a quick protein add-on. Easy to prep and versatile.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Sliced Turkey Breast

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

A close-up of a baked casserole with a golden mashed potato topping, a spoon scooping out a portion revealing a creamy filling beneath. — Turkey Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Cooking Gorgeous.

Ground turkey replaces beef in this comfort food classic. The filling is layered with vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Everything bakes together for a cozy, all-in-one meal. Great for using what’s in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

This roast is seasoned and cooked until the skin turns crisp and golden. It’s juicy inside and easy to carve. A reliable main dish for holidays or Sunday dinners. Pairs well with stuffing, gravy, or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Turkey & Peppers

A red ceramic bowl filled with rice, ground meat, green and red bell peppers, and onions on a rustic white wooden surface. — Turkey & Peppers. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Sliced turkey breast or ground turkey cooks quickly with sweet bell peppers and onions. The mix is savory and colorful, great served over rice or in tortillas. It’s fast, flexible, and easy to season. Ideal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Peppers

Turkey Cranberry Quesadilla

Leftover turkey gets layered with cranberry sauce and cheese between tortillas. Grilled until crispy, the sweet and savory combo stands out. Each bite has melty texture and bold flavor. A smart way to use post-holiday extras.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Cranberry Quesadilla

Greek Turkey Burger Bowls

Ground turkey patties are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon, then served in bowls with rice, cucumber, and tzatziki. It’s a lighter way to enjoy burger flavors. Each bite is fresh and satisfying. A great meal prep option.
Get the Recipe: Greek Turkey Burger Bowls

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

These patties cook fast in the air fryer and stay juicy inside. The outside browns nicely without extra oil. Stack them on buns or serve with salad. Simple and fast with plenty of room for toppings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Vegan Turkey Roast

This plant-based version mimics the texture and flavor of traditional turkey. It’s seasoned with herbs and roasted until firm on the outside. Slice and serve with gravy or stuffing. A thoughtful option for mixed-diet meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Turkey Burger Sliders

Mini turkey burgers are grilled or pan-fried and tucked into small buns. Great for parties or portion-controlled meals. Each slider is juicy and full of flavor. Add sauces or toppings to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger Sliders

Thai Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs are packed with garlic, ginger, and chili, then baked or pan-fried. A Thai-inspired sauce finishes them off with tang and heat. Serve with rice or lettuce wraps. A fresh way to use ground turkey.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs