Ground turkey ran out on us last week, and we had to get creative fast. It got us thinking about how often we need swaps for it in recipes. The good news? There are plenty of easy substitutes that work just as well.
We’ve tried everything from classic proteins to plant-based options. Honestly, some surprised us with how good they turned out. Once, we threw in lentils for tacos, and, not kidding, no one even missed the turkey.
The secret is choosing the right replacement for the dish you’re making. Some work better for hearty casseroles, while others shine in things like stir-fries. We’ve got you covered with easy, practical choices.
5 Quick Substitutes for Ground Turkey
Here are five quick substitutes for ground turkey that you can use in a pinch:
1 – Ground Chicken
Ground chicken is one of the easiest swaps for ground turkey. Use it at a 1:1 ratio, and it blends seamlessly in most recipes. It has a light flavor, so it works well in anything from meatballs to stir-fries.
We’ve tried it in burgers, and it stayed moist while holding its shape. It cooks quickly, just like ground turkey, so no major adjustments are needed. The texture is similar, though ground chicken can be a bit softer.
If you’re curious about other options, take a look at this guide on ground chicken alternatives for more inspiration.
2 – Ground Beef
Ground beef is an easy alternative to ground turkey. Use a 1:1 ratio for a hassle-free switch. Its richer flavor adds more depth to dishes, which works well in hearty recipes.
We’ve tried it in tacos and found the flavor unbeatable, though it’s slightly fattier than turkey. For lighter meals, drain the extra grease after cooking. It holds together nicely in meatballs and patties, making it great for family dinners or meal prep.
If you’re interested in other swaps for ground beef, check out this guide on other ground beef substitutes to keep your meals exciting.
3 – Ground Pork
Ground pork is a solid swap for ground turkey. Use a 1:1 ratio, and it works in nearly any recipe. It has a richer, slightly fattier flavor, which adds a bit more depth.
We’ve tested it in meat sauces, and it gave a great texture while staying juicy. Its natural fat content makes it perfect for things like meatloaf or dumplings. It browns quickly, so keep an eye while cooking.
If you’re curious about other ground meat options, check out this guide on substitute ideas for ground pork for more inspiration in the kitchen.
4 – Plant-Based Ground Meat
Plant-based ground meat makes a simple swap for ground turkey. Use it at a 1:1 ratio, and you’re good to go. The texture and flavor are impressively similar, especially after seasoning.
We’ve tossed it in spaghetti sauces and loved how well it absorbed the marinara flavors. Just like turkey, it cooks quickly and stays versatile for different recipes. One thing we noticed is it’s leaner, so you might need a splash of oil to avoid sticking.
Whether you’re sautéing, crumbling, or shaping it into patties, it holds up well and delivers consistency across meals.
5 – Lentils
Lentils are a smart swap for ground turkey. Use one cup of cooked lentils to replace a pound of ground turkey. They’re hearty and mimic a meaty texture when cooked.
We’ve tried them in tacos and sloppy joes, and they soaked up the spices beautifully. They’re naturally low-fat, so you might need a splash of oil for some extra richness. Lentils work best in recipes with sauces or seasoning to boost flavor.
If you want more ideas for replacing lentils in cooking, check out this handy guide on lentil substitution tips.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.