When it comes to fast, filling, and family-friendly meals, it’s hard to beat the simplicity of this Creamy Turkey Stroganoff. A lighter twist on the traditional beef classic, this recipe uses lean ground turkey and a creamy mushroom sauce for a delicious one-pan dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re searching for easy Thanksgiving meal ideas, midweek comfort food, or simply wondering what to cook with turkey ground meat, this dish is sure to hit the spot. The creamy sauce, tender mushrooms, and satisfying noodles create a nostalgic, cozy meal that’s both budget-friendly and easy to adapt.
Let’s dive into why this should be your new go-to ground turkey meat dinner idea.
Table of Contents
What Is Stroganoff? And Why Use Ground Turkey?
Stroganoff is a beloved Eastern European comfort food traditionally made with tender strips of beef cooked in a sour cream sauce with mushrooms and onions. It’s hearty, indulgent, and often served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
In this Stroganoff Turkey version, we swap out the beef for lean ground turkey to make the dish lighter, faster to cook, and more accessible. Ground turkey blends beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce, absorbing flavor and keeping the dish high in protein and low in saturated fat.
If you’re a fan of quick yet cozy dinners like this, you’ll also love our Crockpot Fajitas or Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken — both are excellent choices for weeknight meals.
Ingredients for Creamy Turkey Stroganoff (With Exact Quantities)
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful dinner:
For the Stroganoff:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (454 g) ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz (227 g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For Serving:
- 8 oz egg noodles (or your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes)
This ingredient list is flexible and perfect if you’re working through a list of turkey meat meal ideas for the week.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Ground Turkey Recipe
To keep things efficient and mess-free, make sure you have:
- Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Pot for boiling noodles
Pro tip: This is a great dish to pair with sides like Garlicky Kale with White Beans or Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Turkey Stroganoff
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Turkey
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6-8 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until softened and mushrooms release their moisture.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the veggies. Add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Stir and simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add the Creamy Goodness
Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and combine everything. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the creamy turkey stroganoff over cooked noodles. Top with chopped parsley for freshness.
Why This Is One of the Best Ground Turkey Meat Dinner Ideas
This dish checks all the boxes:
- Quick – on the table in under 30 minutes.
- One-pan meal – fewer dishes to wash.
- Balanced – includes protein, carbs, and veggies.
- Kid-friendly – creamy sauce + noodles = no complaints.
- Customizable – can be made dairy-free, gluten-free, or low-carb.
For more inspiration using turkey, check out Healthy Turkey Recipes that don’t compromise on flavor.
Healthier Swap: Beef Stroganoff With Ground Turkey
Love beef stroganoff but trying to eat lighter? This is the perfect beef stroganoff with ground turkey alternative. Ground turkey cuts down on saturated fat, making it an ideal protein for those looking to reduce red meat consumption.
You still get all the creamy, tangy flavors of the original without feeling weighed down. Add in Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for even more protein.
Looking for more protein-rich swaps? Try this Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Egg Bake.
Recipe Variations: Crockpot Turkey Stroganoff and Dairy-Free Options
Turkey Stroganoff Crockpot Version
- Brown the turkey and sauté onions/mushrooms.
- Transfer to a slow cooker with broth, mustard, and Worcestershire.
- Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours.
- Stir in sour cream or dairy-free alternative before serving.
Dairy-Free Stroganoff
- Use coconut milk or a plain plant-based cream.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for the tang that sour cream would provide.
This recipe is easy to adapt, much like our Vegetable Casserole — hearty, comforting, and versatile.
What to Serve with Stroganoff for a Complete Meal
Pair your creamy turkey stroganoff with:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Simple salad with vinaigrette
- Pumpkin Fluff Dip for a light dessert
- Lavender Lemonade to cleanse the palate
If you’re in the mood for more cozy dinners, try this One-Pot Ground Chicken Casserole next.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Leftovers Safely
Store: Let leftovers cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Use the microwave or stovetop on low, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: You can freeze the stroganoff (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Batch-cooking this dish makes it great for weekly Healthy Dinner planning.
Tips to Make Your Stroganoff Extra Creamy Without Heavy Cream
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a rich texture with added protein.
- Add a spoon of cream cheese for extra thickness.
- Make a roux with flour and broth for thickening without needing cream.
- Blend half the mushrooms with the broth for an ultra-smooth sauce.
Easy Thanksgiving Meal Ideas Using Ground Turkey
Leftover ground turkey? Or planning ahead for a lighter Thanksgiving spread? This dish is great for repurposing turkey or prepping ahead. Pair it with:
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Roasted green beans with garlic
- Cranberry-orange relish
It’s a great alternative to the usual holiday spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Stroganoff
- Overcooking the mushrooms: They should be tender but not mushy.
- Curdling the sour cream: Add it off heat or on very low heat to prevent curdling.
- Skipping the flour: It helps thicken the sauce and create that luscious texture.
- Undercooked onions: Make sure they are soft and golden for the best flavor base.
Avoid these mistakes and you’ll get perfect stroganoff every time.
FAQ: What to Cook With Turkey Ground Meat & More
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! It works similarly but may be slightly less rich in flavor.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so. It’s creamy, mild, and pairs with noodles — always a win for little eaters.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely, just avoid using fat-free yogurt for best results.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour and serve with gluten-free noodles or rice.
What other supper ideas with ground turkey do you recommend?
Try our Ground Turkey Stroganoff or Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl for more quick, high-protein meals.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Turkey Stroganoff is a lighter take on a comfort food classic. Quick enough for busy weeknights and delicious enough for dinner parties, it deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. With just a few wholesome ingredients and one skillet, dinner is served in under 30 minutes.
Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends or save it for later, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious and healthy turkey recipes. If you’re still asking what to cook with turkey ground meat, you’ll find plenty more ideas in our healthy dinner archives.
PrintCreamy Turkey Stroganoff – A Cozy, Comforting Dinner Favorite
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Turkey Stroganoff is a quick, cozy, and comforting dinner made with ground turkey, egg noodles, and a creamy, savory sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or even as a lighter holiday meal idea.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 6 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional garnish)
- Optional additions: sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion for 3–4 minutes, add garlic, and sauté 30 seconds.
- Brown Turkey: Add ground turkey, breaking it apart. Cook 5–6 minutes until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Create Sauce Base: Sprinkle flour over turkey mixture, stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth, Worcestershire, and Dijon. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Sour Cream: Reduce heat to low, stir in sour cream until smooth and creamy. Do not boil.
- Combine and Serve: Toss noodles with sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For Crockpot: Brown turkey and onion, then add to slow cooker with broth, Worcestershire, mustard, and spices. Cook on Low 4–5 hours. Stir in sour cream before serving.
- Use full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
- Avoid boiling after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze sauce without noodles up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Keywords: Creamy Turkey Stroganoff, Ground Turkey Stroganoff, Easy Weeknight Dinners, Ground Turkey Dinner Ideas, Healthy Comfort Food, Turkey Pasta Recipe, Stroganoff with Ground Turkey, Quick Dinner Recipes
 
 



 
 
