Best Ground Turkey Substitutes | Lean Protein Alternatives
The best substitute for ground turkey is Ground Chicken at a 1:1 by weight ratio. It works best for meatballs, burgers, tacos. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Ground Chicken
1:1 by weight
Nearly identical in leanness and flavor; use interchangeably in any recipe
What are the other substitutes for ground turkey?
Ground Beef
1:1 by weight
Richer flavor and higher fat; reduce added oils in recipe to compensate
Ground Pork
1:1 by weight
Slightly fattier with sweeter flavor; excellent for Asian-inspired dishes
Crumbled Tempeh
1:1 by weight
Crumble and sauté with seasonings first; nutty flavor adds depth to dishes
Cauliflower Crumbles
1.25:1 by weight
Pulse raw cauliflower in food processor; sauté until golden for best texture
What should you know before substituting ground turkey?
Ground turkey is very lean, so don't skip added fats in recipes calling for it. When substituting fattier ground meats for turkey, reduce oil or butter by 1-2 tablespoons per pound to avoid greasiness.
How do you substitute ground turkey in a recipe?
Lean ground poultry that's a healthier alternative to ground beef in many recipes. Its mild flavor makes it versatile, though it requires added fat for best results.
The best substitute for ground turkey depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Ground Chicken (1:1 by weight), which works well for meatballs, burgers, tacos.
If you need a different option, Ground Beef (1:1 by weight) is another reliable choice. Richer flavor and higher fat; reduce added oils in recipe to compensate
When substituting ground turkey, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of ground turkey?
Ground chicken is the closest substitute with nearly identical leanness and flavor. Ground beef or pork work at 1:1 ratio but are fattier, so reduce added oils in the recipe.
Can I substitute ground beef for ground turkey?
Yes, at 1:1 ratio. Ground beef is fattier and more flavorful, so reduce any added oils or butter by 1-2 tablespoons per pound to avoid excess grease.
What is a vegan substitute for ground turkey?
Crumbled tempeh works excellently at 1:1 ratio when sautéed with seasonings. Finely pulsed cauliflower sautéed until golden also provides great texture for tacos and bowls.