Meat, Poultry | Nonvegetarian High Protein Low Fat

Turkey

Meleagris gallopavo Allergen-Free
Turkey

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Phasianidae
  • Primary Cuisine American, European
  • Seasonality Year-Round (parts), Autumn/Winter (whole bird)
  • Source Domesticated Turkey

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the holiday centerpiece, turkey offers a versatile, lean protein source for year-round culinary creativity."

Definition

A large domesticated fowl, commonly consumed as poultry, especially popular for holiday meals, known for its lean meat.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Savory, Umami, Gamey
TextureLean, Tender, Juicy
AromaCooked poultry, Mildly meaty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Optimal_Internal_Temp

165°F (74°C)

Protein_Content

Approx. 29g per 100g breast

Resting_Time_Rule

20-30 min for whole bird

Nutrition Facts

Per 85g
Calories157 kcal
Total Fat3.7g
Saturated Fat1.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol83mg
Protein30g
Total Carbohydrate0g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium13mg
Iron1.1mg
Potassium297mg

Chef’s Secret

Brining turkey (submerging in a salt solution) for 12-24 hours before cooking is key to achieving a moist, flavorful bird, especially the breast meat.

Substitutions

Best Match

Chicken

1:1

Most common poultry substitute, very similar flavor and texture, versatile.

Duck (breast)

1:1

Richer, fattier, and more gamey flavor, but can be substituted in roasts or pan-seared dishes.

Pork Tenderloin

1:1

Lean and tender, similar cooking time for roasts/cutlets, but is red meat.

Seitan (Turkey-style)

1:1

Vegetarian/vegan option, made from wheat gluten, can mimic texture and absorb flavors.

Buying Guide

For whole birds, choose based on size for your guest count. For parts, look for fresh, plump pieces. Consider free-range for flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Cranberry sage rosemary thyme gravy mashed potatoes sweet potatoes green beans.

Recipes Using Turkey

Dietary Course Main Dish 30 Minutes Or Less

South Beach Stuffed Bell Peppers

A delicious and healthy South Beach Diet Phase 1-friendly recipe! These vibrant stuffed bell peppers are packed with flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner the whole family will love, even the picky eaters! This recipe is kid-approved and ready in under an hour.

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Low Saturated Fat Time To Make Soups Stews Main Ingredient

1 2 Cup Soup

This isn't your grandma's soup recipe! It's a flexible, adaptable method for creating a light and satisfying bowl of goodness using whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch, this recipe emphasizes fresh flavors and simple techniques. Customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and grains for endless delicious possibilities! Learn the art of improvisational cooking and discover a new favorite soup.

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Winter Fall Occasion Time To Make

10 Bean Soup

This hearty 10 Bean Soup recipe is a flavor explosion! Even without the traditional ham hock and smoked turkey, this vegetarian adaptation is heavenly. Perfect for using up leftover turkey stock, this recipe is a comforting classic, bursting with fresh vegetables and tender beans. Inspired by Jan and Norman's variety pack favorites.

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Preparation Preparation Time To Make Number Of Servings

3 Way Bbq Baked Beans Oamc

Elevate your BBQ game with this incredibly versatile 3-Way BBQ Baked Beans recipe! Perfect for meal prepping and freezer-friendly, this recipe lets you customize your bean blend (use any 3 types!). After mixing, choose your cooking method: freezer storage for future meals, slow-cooking in a crockpot for ultimate tenderness, or classic oven baking for a delicious crust. Adapted from a beyond-macaroni-and-cheese favorite, this recipe is a must-try for busy families and BBQ enthusiasts alike. Get ready for the most flavorful baked beans you've ever tasted!

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Chili Preparation Chili Main Ingredient

30 Minute Turkey Chili

Spice up your weeknight with this flavorful and FAST turkey chili recipe! Inspired by Food Network, this recipe delivers rich, hearty chili in under 40 minutes (prep time included!). Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Get ready for a bowl of deliciousness!

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For 1 Or 2 Preparation Lunch 15 Minutes Or Less

A Grilled Roasted Turkey Provolone Sandwich

This gourmet Grilled Roasted Turkey Provolone Sandwich is a delightful surprise! Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it's the perfect lunch or light dinner. The secret? Tangy mango chutney adding a delicious depth you won't forget. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game!

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Casseroles Preparation Time To Make Poultry

Alpine Turkey Or Chicken Casserole

A comforting and flavorful Alpine-inspired casserole, perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe uses tender turkey or chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce for a dish the whole family will love. It's surprisingly easy to make and boasts a delightful blend of savory and subtly sweet flavors. Get ready to experience a taste of the Alps in your kitchen!

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Occasion Holiday Event 1 Day Or More Poultry

Alton Brown's Brined Turkey

Unlock the secret to unbelievably juicy and flavorful turkey with Alton Brown's foolproof brining method! This recipe transforms a simple turkey into a culinary masterpiece. The salt water brine magically alters the turkey's cellular structure, locking in moisture and infusing the meat with incredible depth of flavor from aromatic herbs and spices. From the moment you create the fragrant brine to the rich, flavorful gravy, this recipe is a symphony of taste that will impress even the most discerning palates. Prepare for rave reviews – this is the best roasted turkey you'll ever serve! Easily adaptable to chicken too!

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Comfort Food Pork Stove Top Spicy

Andy's All Meat Chili

Unleash your inner chili-head with Andy's All-Meat Chili! This no-bean masterpiece explodes with flavor and heat, proving that chili can be a truly unforgettable experience. Forget bland – this recipe delivers a knockout punch of savory spices and tender, juicy meat. Prepare for a chili so good, it'll redefine your expectations. Perfect for game day, chilly evenings, or any time you crave a bold and satisfying meal.

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Main Dish Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less Occasion

Anthony's Favorite Stuffed Shells Lite Bleu

Craving comfort food without the guilt? This Lite Bleu recipe is a lighter, healthier twist on a classic! We've dramatically reduced the calories, fat, and carbs from the original recipe (656 calories, 34.4g fat, 47.7g carbs down!), creating a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for weight loss. Enjoy all the flavor of stuffed shells with significantly fewer calories. This complete meal is part of our weight loss diet plan – discover more healthy recipes on our homepage!

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Preparation Lunch Time To Make Preparation

Asian Style Turkey Burgers

Fire up the grill for these flavorful Asian-style turkey burgers! A delicious and healthy twist on a classic, these juicy patties are packed with aromatic ginger, garlic, and savory soy sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Easy Easy Occasion Fall

Autumn Meatloaf

Celebrate the vibrant colors of autumn with this healthy and delicious ground turkey meatloaf! Bursting with fall flavors, this recipe features earthy mushrooms, sharp cheddar, sweet red onion, and nutritious spinach, all baked to golden perfection. Easy to make and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive fall gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunning and flavorful meatloaf!

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North American Time To Make Dietary Low Carb

Awesome Turkey Meatloaf

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this unbelievably delicious and healthy turkey meatloaf! This recipe, originally from my step-mom (with a few of my own delicious twists!), will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and leave you craving more. Perfect for chilly winter nights, this meatloaf is so good, you'll want to make it again and again. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Northeastern United States Turkey Lunch Course

Awesome Turkey Sandwich

Transform leftover turkey into a sensational sandwich! This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, featuring a creamy cranberry-dill dressing. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

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30 Minutes Or Less Lunch Poultry Time To Make

Baked Southwest Sandwiches

Spice up your lunch with these easy Baked Southwest Sandwiches! Crispy bread, juicy turkey, melted cheese, and a zesty olive-southwest spread make this recipe a flavor explosion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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5 Ingredients Or Less European Kid Friendly Comfort Food

Barbecue Feta Turkey Burgers

Fire up the grill for these juicy and flavorful Barbecue Feta Turkey Burgers! Tender ground turkey is combined with salty feta, briny olives, and fragrant oregano, then grilled to perfection. A simple recipe with big taste, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue.

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Chicken Time To Make Inexpensive Main Dish

Best Creamed Turkey With Thyme Biscuits

Say goodbye to heavy gravy and hello to creamy, dreamy creamed turkey! This recipe elevates the classic comfort food with a secret weapon: homemade thyme biscuits. My mom's recipe, perfected with a touch of sherry wine for a warm, sophisticated flavor, guarantees a dish that's both comforting and impressive. Get ready for the best creamed turkey you've ever tasted!

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Turkey Course Poultry Main Dish

Gobbler Cobbler

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a bubbly, comforting Gobbler Cobbler! This easy recipe uses leftover turkey, gravy, and veggies to create a delicious casserole topped with a golden-brown biscuit topping. A fantastic way to minimize food waste and maximize flavor. Adapted from razzledazzle recipes.

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