This Mediterranean-inspired Ground Turkey Stew is a hearty, protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Loaded with lean ground turkey, fiber-rich cannellini beans, and nutrient-dense kale, it’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Brimming with fresh herbs, olives, and a savory tomato broth, this stew delivers healthy fats, low saturated fat, and plenty of plant-forward nutrition.
Quick, easy, and ideal for meal prep, it’s a flavorful everyday dinner option.
Ground Turkey Stew
Equipment
- 1 Dutch oven or large heavy-bottom pot
Ingredients
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 5 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound extra-lean ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes low sodium
- 2 14-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups kale coarsely chopped and packed
- 3/4 cup pitted olives halved
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh basil finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers slightly, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the stew.
- Cook the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the meat turns light brown and no longer has a raw appearance. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the herbs to bloom and coat the turkey evenly with flavor.
- Combine the Base Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, drained cannellini beans, and low-sodium chicken broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and add the bay leaves. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring the beans and turkey are evenly distributed in the tomato broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the stew to simmer for 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors meld together, the beans absorb some of the savory broth, and the turkey becomes tender. Occasionally peek to make sure it isn’t sticking to the bottom, but do not remove the lid too often, as this allows the flavors to concentrate.
- Incorporate the Greens and Olives: Turn off the heat and add the chopped kale, halved olives, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently until the kale begins to wilt, which should take just a few minutes. The lemon adds brightness, balancing the richness of the beans and turkey while enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Add the chopped basil and parsley to the stew, stirring gently to distribute evenly. Cover the pot and let the stew rest for 5–10 minutes off the heat. This step allows the fresh herbs to infuse the stew, giving it a fragrant, layered taste. Before serving, remove the bay leaves.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the stew into bowls while still warm. This hearty, nutrient-rich dish pairs well with a slice of crusty bread, a side salad, or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. The combination of protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables makes it perfect for a satisfying dinner or meal-prep option for the week.
Notes
- Use extra-lean ground turkey for a light, low-fat stew without sacrificing flavor.
- Rinse and drain canned beans thoroughly to reduce excess sodium and achieve a cleaner taste.
- For softer kale, add it while the stew is still simmering; for firmer texture, add at the very end.
- Fresh herbs like basil and parsley enhance flavor significantly—avoid dried substitutes if possible.
- This stew is versatile—swap kale with spinach or Swiss chard, or use green olives for a milder taste.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor
The key to a deeply flavorful Mediterranean turkey stew lies in layering ingredients thoughtfully.
Start by thoroughly sautéing onions and garlic to build a savory base.
Browning the turkey properly ensures a rich taste and appealing texture.
Allowing the stew to rest after adding fresh herbs and kale gives the flavors time to marry, creating a balanced, aromatic dish.
Don’t rush this stage—it’s what makes the stew memorable.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
Serve this stew hot with a slice of rustic bread or a side of warm couscous to soak up the savory broth.
It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.
For an extra touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving.
This stew also makes a great centerpiece for casual family dinners or meal-prepped lunches.
Storage Tips for Best Results
Refrigerate leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent kale from overcooking.
For long-term storage, cool the stew completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Stews like this often taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and deepen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute ground turkey with chicken?
Yes, ground chicken works well, though the stew may be slightly less rich in flavor.
Use extra-lean meat and follow the same cooking steps for best results.
2. Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground turkey with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen kale is convenient.
Add it directly to the stew at the end of cooking and simmer until heated through.
Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
4. How can I reduce sodium further?
Use low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomatoes and beans, and skip adding extra salt until the end.
Taste and adjust seasoning carefully.
5. Can I meal prep this stew for the week?
Definitely. Portion it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
It reheats well on the stove or microwave, making it an ideal meal-prep option.
