This was one of those recipes I threw together on a crazy weeknight when I had ground turkey in the fridge and zero time. I didn’t expect my family to love it as much as they did — but now it’s on repeat. It’s got all the classic sweet-and-savory sloppy joe flavor, but lightened up and ready in minutes. And yes, it still gets sticky fingers and happy faces at the table. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp mustard

• 1 tsp chili powder (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Whole wheat buns, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

2. Add garlic and ground turkey. Cook until turkey is browned and cooked through.

3. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.

4. Spoon mixture onto toasted buns and serve hot!

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 25g

• Carbs: 22g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 2g