Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers

Name: Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; Wooden or metal skewers; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Gathering Food | Crowd Pleasers

I absolutely love making Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers, especially during the warm months. The aroma that fills my kitchen as the skewers sizzle away on the grill is simply irresistible. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh herbs and spices that elevate the natural flavors of the turkey. Whether I’m enjoying them at a backyard BBQ or a cozy family dinner, they always impress. I often serve them with a refreshing yogurt dip to balance the flavors, making it a hit all around!

Created by

The Ursulabakes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-16T11:59:08.698Z

Creating Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers has become one of my favorite summer rituals. Not only is this dish vibrant and healthy, but the combination of thyme, parsley, and garlic creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. While preparing the skewers, I always ensure to let the turkey mix marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

One specific tip I’ve discovered is to soak wooden skewers in water for a while before grilling. It prevents them from burning and allows for a perfectly cooked skewer every time. After making these a few times, I find the longer they marinate in the fridge, the more flavorful they get, so don’t hesitate to prepare them ahead of time!

Why You'll Love These Skewers

Juicy ground turkey infused with fresh herbs
Quick prep and cook time makes them perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile pairing with various dips and sides

Getting the Perfect Texture

The key to achieving juicy Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers lies in the moisture content. Ground turkey can be lean, so incorporating fresh herbs and olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist while grilling. Make sure to form the skewers tightly enough around the skewer to hold their shape, but don't over-pack them, as this can lead to a dense texture. Aim for a light, cohesive mold of the turkey mix around the skewer for that perfect balance of tenderness and firmness.

Additionally, consider using a digital meat thermometer to monitor doneness. Ground turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you inadvertently overcook the skewers, they may dry out. Keep an eye on their color and opt for a golden-brown exterior, which should take around 12-15 minutes on a medium-high grill.

Flavor Combinations and Serving Suggestions

While the herbed turkey skewers are delightful on their own, pairing them with a refreshing yogurt dip elevates the dish. The tangy yogurt complements the savory turkey beautifully, while the lemon and garlic in the dip enhance the overall flavor profile. You can experiment by adding different herbs like dill or mint to the yogurt dip for a unique twist, making it versatile based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

For a complete meal, serve the skewers with a side of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. The smokiness of the grilled veggies pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the herbs in the turkey skewers. You can also serve them on a bed of couscous or quinoa for a hearty and healthy option, adding a splash of olive oil and lemon for extra flavor.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1 lb ground turkey
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
Wooden or metal skewers

For Yogurt Dip (optional)

1 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, parsley, thyme, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly integrated.

Form the Skewers

Take a handful of the turkey mixture and mold it around each skewer, pressing firmly to ensure it holds together. Repeat until all skewers are formed.

Preheat the Grill

Heat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for at least 20 minutes to avoid burning.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Prepare the Yogurt Dip

In a small bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with fresh herbs.

Serve

Remove skewers from the grill and serve hot with the yogurt dip on the side.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the turkey mixture for a few hours or overnight. You can also substitute the ground turkey with chicken or beef if preferred.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to decrease the fat content, consider using ground chicken or extra-lean ground turkey. Both options maintain a similar texture but offer a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you don't have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be a great substitute. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, since they are more concentrated in flavor.

For those following a gluten-free diet, be sure to check that the ingredients in your yogurt dip are gluten-free. Using Greek yogurt can make the dip thicker and creamier, which can be a delightful alternative. You can also add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to the dip for a touch of warmth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers can easily be made ahead of time, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Form the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld even further, enhancing the taste upon cooking.

When it comes to leftovers, store any unconsumed skewers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze the uncooked skewers for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen ground turkey?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before preparing the skewers.

→ What can I serve these skewers with?

These skewers pair well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.

→ How long can cooked skewers be stored in the fridge?

Cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these in the oven?

Yes, simply place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.