20 Flavorful Ground Turkey and Cabbage Recipes for Healthy Meals

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

When it comes to healthy meals, few ingredients are as versatile and nutritious as ground turkey and cabbage. This dynamic duo can be used to create a wide range of dishes, from savory stir-fries to hearty casseroles. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different ways to combine ground turkey and cabbage for flavorful and nutritious meals that are perfect for any time of year.

From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional recipes, our selection of ground turkey and cabbage dishes is sure to inspire your cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes.

So why not get started today? Check out some of the mouth-watering options below and start cooking up a storm!

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Sauce

This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of cabbage, all tied together with a rich ginger soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and cabbage to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender-crisp (4-5 minutes).
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Spicy Ground Turkey and Cabbage Tacos with Avocado Crema

Elevate your taco game with this flavorful combination of spicy ground turkey, crunchy cabbage, and creamy avocado crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 8 oz cabbage, thinly sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, jalapeño, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet; cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly wilted.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with turkey mixture, cabbage, and desired toppings.

Avocado Crema:

– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
– Mix all ingredients until smooth; refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ground Turkey Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Basil Sauce

This recipe combines the flavors of savory ground turkey, tangy cabbage, and fresh tomato basil sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cabbage leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay cabbage leaves flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto the center of each leaf.
4. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer cabbage rolls to a baking dish and pour Tomato Basil Sauce (see below) over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Tomato Basil Sauce:
Combine crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.

Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Soup with Turmeric and Coconut Milk

This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of ground turkey, cabbage, and coconut milk with a warm hint of turmeric. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, chicken broth, coconut milk, and turmeric powder. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Wraps with Peanut Sauce

This recipe combines the flavors of Southeast Asia with a crispy, crunchy twist. The combination of ground turkey, cabbage, and peanut sauce wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground turkey in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the shredded cabbage in olive oil until crispy and slightly caramelized.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading a spoonful of peanut sauce on each tortilla, followed by a layer of cooked turkey and topped with shredded cabbage.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Skillet with Garlic and Herbs

A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of cabbage, all infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Hash with Sweet Potatoes

This recipe is a twist on the classic hash, featuring ground turkey, crunchy cabbage, and sweet potatoes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added smokiness

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly wilted.
5. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Dumplings with Chili Oil

Savor the fusion of flavors as tender ground turkey and crunchy cabbage meet in these mouthwatering dumplings, elevated by a drizzle of spicy chili oil.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Chili oil (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the turkey mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dampen edges with water and fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook dumplings for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Drizzle cooked dumplings with chili oil and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Casserole with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This Ground Turkey Cabbage Casserole with Cheese and Breadcrumbs is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground turkey, cabbage, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, mix grated cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add turkey mixture. Top with cheese and breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Lettuce Wraps with Sriracha Mayo

These flavorful wraps combine savory ground turkey, crunchy cabbage, and a kick of Sriracha mayo all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup Sriracha mayonnaise (or to taste)
– 4 large lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the turkey and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread a spoonful of Sriracha mayonnaise on each lettuce leaf.
5. Divide the turkey-cabbage mixture among the lettuce leaves, wrapping up the filling.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Soup with White Beans and Rosemary

This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of ground turkey, tender cabbage, creamy white beans, and fragrant rosemary. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and dried rosemary.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce

Add a twist to traditional meatballs with the addition of cabbage and a spicy kick from tomato sauce. This recipe combines ground turkey, shredded cabbage, and aromatic spices for a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cilantro, Parmesan cheese, cabbage, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat crushed tomatoes and smoked paprika in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds

This savory stir-fry combines lean ground turkey with crunchy cabbage and nutty sesame seeds for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect as a one-pot wonder or as part of a larger Asian-inspired feast.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cabbage, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. Cook until cabbage is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Dip

A flavorful twist on traditional egg rolls, these Ground Turkey and Cabbage Egg Rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, shredded cabbage, and spices. Serve them with a side of tangy Sweet Chili Dip for a delicious snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– Sweet Chili Dip ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Brush tops of egg rolls with sesame oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix together Sweet Chili Dip ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve warm egg rolls with sweet chili dip for dipping.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Stew with Carrots and Potatoes

A comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines ground turkey, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the stew to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Fried Rice with Scrambled Eggs

A flavorful and protein-packed twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines ground turkey, cabbage, and scrambled eggs for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and salt to taste. Cook until the cabbage is tender.
4. Push the turkey-cabbage mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs into the turkey-cabbage mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spoon. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Slaw with Lime Dressing

A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the savory flavor of ground turkey with the crunch of cabbage and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground turkey in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until fully browned.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the turkey-cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stuffed Peppers

A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the crunch of cabbage and sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, cabbage, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-cabbage mixture and top with a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Ground Turkey Cabbage Noodle Bowl with Miso Broth

Ground Turkey Cabbage Noodle Bowl with Miso Broth Recipe

This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground turkey, tangy cabbage, and springy noodles, all wrapped up in a rich miso broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate pot, combine the chicken broth, white miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine the cooked noodles, turkey mixture, and miso broth in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Ground Turkey and Cabbage Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Cauliflower

A twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines ground turkey and cabbage for a flavorful filling, topped with mashed cauliflower instead of traditional mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups mashed cauliflower (see instructions below)
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey, onion, garlic, cabbage, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the filling to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with mashed cauliflower (see instructions below).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
6. Optional: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Mashed Cauliflower Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

Summary

Discover the delicious combination of ground turkey and cabbage in these 20 flavorful recipes. From stir-fries and tacos to casseroles and soup, there’s something for everyone. Try classic dishes like Ground Turkey Stuffed Cabbage Rolls or Spicy Ground Turkey Tacos, or get creative with unique recipes like Ground Turkey Cabbage Egg Rolls or Ground Turkey Cabbage Noodle Bowl. With a range of international flavors and cuisines represented, you’ll find healthy meal ideas that are easy to make and packed with flavor.

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